Maidstone 3’s (1) vs Newenden Nomads 1’s (4)

In an overcast encounter at Cranbrook School, Maidstone 3’s faced a formidable challenge against the high-flying Newenden Nomads, who currently sit comfortably at 3rd position in the league table. Nomads, now back to full strength since the last outing looked to consolidate their position in the top 3...Maidstone eager to prove their mettle once again against the upper echelons of Div 5.

From the off, it was evident that this would be an entertaining one to watch, with end-to-end action keeping the travelling first team and Church St loyalists engaged until the final whistle. The Nomads demonstrated early on why they were 4 wins from 4 by dominating possession in midfield and overloading the MHC defence who, with multiple absences (including keeper AW) were unable to keep them at bay for too long. The first breakthrough came from the Nomads as they capitalized from close range, taking a 1-0 lead just before the break.

The second half saw Maidstone pushing hard for an equaliser and undeterred, Maidstone kept fighting. Their efforts were almost rewarded when Logan found himself at the top of the D, a reverse rocket blazing over the bar with the spectators appreciative of the attempt. A short corner (again from Logan) tipped wide by the outstretched big toe of the NN keeper. Newenden now fearing an imminent equaliser, countered rapidly. Their 1-0 lead doubled and tripled with shots on goals not shut down quickly enough.

Maidstone were rewarded eventually with a solitary consolation goal – after a scrappy bit of play, the captain found the back of the net, sliding the ball under the keeper. In the dying minutes, the Maidstone Captain claimed to have scored again, the other 23 men on the pitch were seriously unconvinced. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Maidstone succumbed to a 4-1 defeat overall - unable to replicate, or improve upon their previous result (2-2) against a very strong Nomads side.

While the scoreline may not have favoured Maidstone on this occasion, the 3’s always demonstrate positivity, determination, and admirable teamwork in what was actually an enjoyable game against one of the nicer sides in the league (and not just because they provide a curry post-game). Looking ahead, Maidstone face another tough challenge as they prepare to take on the top-of-the-table Folkestone at home in their next fixture. With valuable lessons learned from the Newenden encounter, Maidstone will be eager to bounce back and make a big statement against the league leaders.