Herne Bay started the game strongly, with the goalkeeper commanding his box well and the team limiting Sittingbourne’s opportunities early on. Chances were few for both sides until a misplaced pass allowed Sittingbourne to take the lead, and a second long-range strike followed soon after. Another error at the back led to a third before halftime, leaving HB frustrated going into the break.

The second half saw a more determined response from Herne Bay, with a long-range effort from Anj hitting the bar before Sittingbourne extended their lead from a set-piece to 4–0. HB rallied well late on, with a superb strike from Tyler Wells off the post and a header from Archie Comber bringing the score back to 4–2. The final minutes were competitive and energetic, but the early deficit proved too much to overturn. Supporters player of the match went to Harry Whitmore
Both teams carried out a minute’s applause at the start of the match for Arran McManus