New boys far from

MAIDSTONE

It was a day to remember at the Gallagher as Maidstone started their National League campaign. Playing in the top flight of non-league for the first time since winning the Conference title in 1989, United produced a performance to convince even the biggest worrier they will be able to hold their own at this level.

A York side down from League 2 are among the title favourites but Stones showed little respect for reputations last Saturday, going after Jackie McNamara’s side, taking the lead through Bobby-Joe Taylor and creating several good chances.

It was impossible to maintain such a tempo for 90 minutes in the heat but they gave it a good go, fading around the time Report: Pictures: of York’s equaliser midway through the second half but then producing a strong finish.

United tested the visitors with balls in the box early on, forcing three corners in the opening minutes, while a series of Alex Flisher long throws gave City plenty to think about. Debutants Kevin Lokko and Anthony Acheampong looked the part at centre-half, fellow summer signing Tom Murphy formed a good understanding with Callum Driver down the right, while Ben Greenhalgh started his third spell at the Gallagher looking suited in the No.10 role.

United were in front on 22 minutes when Taylor played a neat one-two with Taylor and powered the ball low into the far corner.

Greenhalgh had a header cleared off the line after keeper Scott Flinders made a mess of Flisher’s latest missile, while Lokko also went close.

The Minstermen grew into the game towards the end of the half, Driver and James Rogers with important tackles and interceptions as Aidan Connolly