STONES ON A SEAL TITLE AT ROLL TO A CANTER
MAIDSTONE United are champions of National League South after they comfortably defeated Chelmsford City while Dorking Wanderers were beaten at St Albans City.
With 21 wins from 25 matches, the Stones have enjoyed a stunning run of form to storm to the title, working their way through the play-off places to take the top prize in style.
And boss Hakan Hayrettin, in his first full season in charge, beamed: “It is an amazing feeling. I am so happy for everyone connected with the club. I’ve been involved in promotions and this is one of the best for me.
“I have stuck with the same squad, I have probably used the least number of players and they have worked tirelessly for me. A big plus for me is Terry Harris. He has been my best signing, he is my best mate and he is the best number two any manager can have.”
There were a few signs of nerves in the first half. With just three minutes gone, the Stones went close to providing an early release from the tension. Sam Corne hit a decent shot from just inside the area which smashed off the inside of a post.
It was then Chelmsford’s turn to go close. Louis Dunne’s corner was met by Charlie Sheringham who headed the ball down only for Tom Hadler to make an excellent save.
But two minutes before the break, Maidstone took the lead. Roarie Deacon was alert to nick the ball off the Chelmsford defence and he exchanged passes with Jack Barham before heading into the box and putting the ball into the middle for Barham to get the vital touch.
Star man Barham appeared to injure his foot in the process, which ended his game.
His replacement, Hady Ghandour, was to have an immediate impact. Three minutes after coming on, Ghandour received Michael Phillips’ pass, ran forwards into the box and dispatched a fine finish past Kai McKenzie-Lyle.
Maidstone did get a deserved third nine minutes from time. The excellent Phillips swept the ball out to Deacon who advanced into the box and slotted home.
Chelmsford pulled a goal back when substitute Simeon Jackson headed in Tom Blackwell’s free-kick before Maidstone were awarded a penalty. Adebola Oluwo tripped Deacon inside the box but Deacon’s penalty went into the crowd.
With the game in stoppage time, the Gallagher Stadium erupted on confirmation of St Albans holding on to beat Dorking, ensuring Maidstone had wrapped it up.