Kingstonian and Herne Bay played out a closely contested match that ended with Herne Bay advancing after a penalty shootout on Saturday. The game, which took place at Kingstonian’s home ground, featured several lead changes and dramatic moments before the outcome was decided from the spot.

Kingstonian’s top scorer Eddie Simon opened the scoring early, finding the net within four minutes with a glancing header. Herne Bay struggled initially to settle but responded in the 26th minute when Joe Taylor equalized. The goal originated from a corner, with Romeo Aarons Royal directing a header back across the box for Taylor to convert with a header.

The hosts were briefly behind when Taylor scored again at the 39-minute mark, this time volleying the ball into the bottom corner after a move that involved Jacob Lambert. Kingstonian fought back strongly in the second half, with Sean O’Brien narrowing the deficit by scoring from close range.

Herne Bay regained the lead through a Taylor penalty, but Kingstonian remained resilient. Arden Ujkai leveled the score with eight minutes remaining by heading in a corner, forcing the match into a shootout.

The penalty shootout was ultimately decided by Herne Bay goalkeeper Tom Wray, who made two crucial saves to secure the victory for his side. This result sees Herne Bay progressing to the next round, while Kingstonian’s cup run comes to an end.