Maidstone 3’s (5) vs Folkestone 4’s (3)

In another gripping encounter at Armstrong Road, Maidstone took on the league leaders Folkestone who were probably expecting a routine win after beating the hosts 5-1 back in October. Maidstone however, had other ideas.

Maidstone were showing significant signs of improvement recently and were not going to lie down easily for the table toppers. The battle unfolded in an 8-goal thriller, with Folkestone taking an early 1-0 lead through a rapid baseline drive and easy tap-in.

Maidstone responded strongly, leveling the score at 1-1 with a tomahawk from the top of the D from the Captain (labelled the most frustrating player in the league by the Folkestone striker) which may have taken a minor deflection on the way in.

Maidstone surged ahead at 2-1 with MOTM Ash Messenger executing his signature reverse sweep into an empty net. A missed p-flick from Waller added to the drama just before half time; the failed attempt sent soaring closer to the clubhouse than the net.

The lead was extended to 3-1 with a very average drag flick (again deflected) from the top of the D by a relieved Waller, making up for his earlier mistake. Folkestone countered quickly, narrowing the gap to 3-2 with a shot that eluded Andy, who with bodies in the way was unable to react quick enough.

5 cards shown in the last encounter and only one this time around; Logan the recipient of a green card in both fixtures. James D, who was wisely ushered away by teammates following an on pitch scuffle, avoided joining Logan in the sin bin.

Glen's first goal for the 3’s from top-D appeared to seal a huge victory for MHC but Folkestone retaliated once again, making it 4-3 with a carbon copy of their second. Maidstone were able to finally put the game to bed with a sublime goal from Logan - his 5th of the season and Maidstone’s 5th of the game; a beautifully lifted shot from the right side of the D, across the keeper and into the roof of the net.

The celebrations almost earned him a yellow card for removing his top, thankfully for anyone with eyes, this was prevented by a deterring glare from the umpire.

Exceptional tracking back particularly from Logan & Will covered crucial gaps in Maidstone’s formation, preventing Folkestone from quickly counter attacking. Solid defensive performances should not go unmentioned, at times Folkestone really struggled to penetrate the 4 man back line, a necessary change from the usual 3-5-2 to keep out a very strong opposition.

Maidstone travel to Gravesham & Wellcome next week, the visitors with a game in hand and one point more than the hosts. A game that both sides will be determined to win with eyes on a place in the top 4.