K SPORTS ROund-uP: vicToRy MAiNTAiNS cHALLENGE FoR THE TiTLE

K Sports inflicted a first home defeat on Maidstone 3rds to stay joint-top of Kent Open Premier C.

The visitors took an early lead through Dave Wood after a quick hit from James Clarkely and Wood made it 2-0 on 15 minutes after some great build-up play from Brook Fowler and Matt Sharp, who was later forced off with a head injury.

The third goal was the pick as Kai Wilson won possession and crossed for Fowler to finish before the break, although the hosts rallied to pull back two goals in the second half. Nick Shread made it 4-2 with a reverse flick for his first of the season, meaning Maidstone’s late third was a mere consolation.

The 2nds dominated their 2-0 win against Burnt Ash 7ths in Kent Open Division 4.

Midway through the first half Aaron Divall finished off a fine move and Joe Dowling added a second soon after with a close-range finish, while keeper Mike Newmarch kept Ash at bay after the break.

The depleted ladies lost 3-0 at home to Cliftonville 2nds in Kent Open Division 3.

The visitors took the lead late in the first half and doubled it against the run of play after half-time before adding a third.

The 2nds went down 3-1 at Cliftonville 3rds in Division 5.

Two early goals left the visitors chasing the game before Jen Divall helped firm up the Sports defence.

Emma Thorpe started a move which led to Sharon McAllan slotting home to halve the deficit, however the Thanet side restored their two-goal lead before the close.