Maidstone United U23 return to the top of the table

Bright wing play from Farron Chime created the opening opportunity, with a defensive clearance falling kindly to Arlito, who smashed the ball home to give the Stones a deserved early lead. Ten minutes later, hard work on the training ground paid off as a well-worked set piece found Arlito again, his header doubling Maidstone’s advantage inside the opening 15 minutes.

Deal pulled a goal back midway through the half with a close range header and defended resolutely for the remainder of the evening, making it difficult for Maidstone to extend their lead before the break.

The Stones managed the second half professionally, and a tactical change in shape created several further chances, though they were unable to add to the scoreline.

The victory sends Maidstone back to the top of the table, level on 36 points with Margate but with five games in hand.