Maidstone 3’s (4) vs Holcombe Hawks (2)

After an unwelcome loss last week to Gravesham, Maidstone now faced 2nd from bottom Holcombe; a team they beat 5-1 in the reverse fixture. Fielding a strong squad, Maidstone were quietly optimistic that another win was on the cards.

After blanking in the two previous game-weeks, Ash found himself on the scoresheet early after an incredible pinpoint aerial from Stu at the back left Ash 1 on 1 with the Holcs keeper. 1-0 to Maidstone.

Maidstone had plenty of opportunities; quick counter attacks using the width led to chances on goal but the final finish was lacking. Holcombe capitalised on slow closing down to score an equaliser just before half time and the teams went into the break level at 1-1.

As the second half commenced, Maidstone seemed to awaken, showing considerable improvement in passing accuracy and determination to make the 50/50 balls first. The team, now somewhat renowned for displaying a more cohesive and determined performance in the second half of games knew more goals were imminent.

Waller broke the deadlock not long after the restart, with two goals (both less than 6 yards out) to propel Maidstone into a 3-1 lead. The first a reverse strike after a deflection fell kindly, the second as a result of Glen driving the baseline and pulling back to the P spot for an easy sweep through the keepers legs for the Captain.

The momentum remained firmly with Maidstone as they continued to dominate proceedings. Another goal, this time from Kieran, a very well worked piece of open play allowed Hippolyte to drive confidently into the D to which Holcombe were unable to defend against. With the score at 4-1, a green card was shown to Waller for a stick tackle even a lumberjack would have winced at.

Holcombe now had an opportunity to press the 10 man Maidstone, hoping for a quick goal to reduce the deficit. Although Holcombe had an uphill battle to climb, they were not going away without a fight; pulling one back near the end of the match and closing the gap ever so slightly. It was however too little, too late to alter the final outcome.

In the end, Maidstone emerged victorious with a well-deserved 4-2 win over the visiting side. Maidstone demonstrated resilience and determination in the end to overcome a sluggish start to deliver a commanding second half performance by all in blue and yellow, securing another crucial win in Div 5.

MOTM - Stu M