Maidstone 3’s (5) vs Blackheath & Elthamians Outlaws (0)

A struggling Blackheath & Elthamians side hosted the Maidstone 3’s this Saturday in a slow starting match, which eventually ended in a 5-0 victory for the visiting side following a dominant second half performance. The entire game was incredibly well managed thanks to some of the best umpiring performances seen all season.

Captain Waller looked to the 4’s team this week for help; bringing up a number of youngsters to fill big gaps due to a number of regular 3’s players missing - which they did exceptionally well. Following a well worked attacking move, James D squared a pass in the D to Scott K who finished cooly on his 3’s debut.

The other 4 goals all came from the MHC captain, all impressive finishes (except the missed P flick), but not as impressive as the huge team effort that led to each and every goal. Individual, vital tackles at the opposite end of the pitch from defenders (including a cameo at RCB for Mark B) allowed the midfielders and attackers to string passes together leaving Waller 1 on 1 against the keeper multiple times.

With both 3’s strikers missing, Kieran D and James D stepped in and exhibited a performance rife with determination, skill and intelligent play up top, leaving Ash and Logan fighting for their own positions on their return.

Adam, Blake and Ed all stepped up with solid games too. The home side unable to keep up with the fresh legs resultant from the well managed rolling winger subs, this only adding to the devastating impact the Maidstone attackers positioning and runs had on the Blackheath Defence.

Blackheath did have their own opportunities; quick counters and slick skills showcased by younger members of the team were all shut down by a solid MHC back 3 of Bromley, Stu and Al with keeper Andy making some of the best saves all season when called upon. Matt K & Glen maintaining their positions at CDM throughout the game; stopping oncoming attacks dead and allowing Waller the freedom to roam around the oppositions 25 without needing to get back and defend (something he isn’t very good at).

MOTM went to Kieran who (for once not hungover) played a pivotal role in Maidstone's offense, delivering precise assists that set up 3 crucial scoring opportunities for his Captain. The selflessness throughout his entire performance was the only reason he did not get on the scoresheet himself.

Another immensely impressive display of Maidstone's teamwork and determination highlights their status as a formidable force in the league. Maidstone keen to win all remaining fixtures to fight for a place in the top 4….or even top 3??