Ex-league clubS await new boyS

Maidstone meet four ex-Football League clubs in their first five games of the season – but summer signing Anthony Acheampong says they are fearless.

United start their National League campaign with a televised home game against York City on August 6.

The Minstermen, managed by former Celtic and Scotland star Jackie McNamara, were relegated from League 2 last season.

United also face trips to Aldershot, Chester and Tranmere in August, as well as a home game against title favourites Forest Green.

Acheampong, 26, has only been at the Gallagher a week but knows Jay Saunders’ side are ready for the challenge.

He said: “The difference between the Conference and Conference South is the quality, and teams are more organised.

“Strikers are that little bit more clinical, so we have to be clinical also.

“We have to attack every game and not be scared of anyone. What I’ve found is that there’s no fear factor here.

“We all know we can beat anyone and that’s what I love about the club so far.

“When it’s like that it allows you to go out and play with a winning mentality.”

Acheampong joined Maidstone following his release by Kent rivals Ebbsfleet.

The centre-half was a second-half substitute in the play-off final as United beat Fleet on penalties.

He said: “Since the news broke that I’ve signed for Maidstone I’ve had nothing but well-wishers from Ebbsfleet and nothing

but welcome messages from the Maidstone fans.

“When you’re joining a rival club and the reaction is like that, you know you’ve done something right.

“I’ve had loads of stick off the boys about the play-off final, just banter about the penalties and how the day went.

“It’s all good fun and they’ve been very welcoming. They’re a great bunch and that’s massive to me.

“Before we played Maidstone last season the work ethic was highlighted and Jay wants to continue that.

“We knew they were organised and a big threat, with match-winners all over the place. I was aware of all that and now I’m training with the boys I can see that for myself.”

Acheampong, who has played in the National League with Barnet, has the qualities to become a crowd favourite at the Gallagher.

He said: “I’m a leader on pitch. You can expect me to be vocal and to put my heart into every tackle and every header.

“I’m an honest lad and I give my all every time I play. I want the best for the club and the fans.”

Maidstone’s fixtures, page 78