Maidstone United’s search for promotion to the National League continues tonight as they host table toppers Chelmsford at the Gallagher Stadium.
Following the end of the Stones’ historical run to the fourth round of the FA Cup, their league form has taken a hit, winning just one of their last five games in the National League South.
Tonight’s clash with 2nd placed Chelmsford will be a tough ask for George Elokobi’s side, but there is one man in the Maidstone line-up who the visitors will be wary of.
Muhammadu Faal has scored five goals in his first nine Maidstone appearances since a January loan move from relegation battlers Havant & Waterlooville, and he knows just how important three points will be tonight.
“It’s such an important game for us,” said Faal. “If we want to make the play-offs, we have to pick up more points, so Chelmsford is a great way to start that.”
Maidstone currently sit 9th in the National League South, two places and two points from the play-offs. A recent dip in form during their FA Cup run wasn’t unexpected, but Faal knows the Stones need to crack on now.
“We had a lot on our minds during the cup run,” said Faal. “It took a lot out of the team if I’m being honest. The constant media attention is something we’re just not used to.
“We’re all so grateful for it, but it’s finished now and we need full focus on the league. Chelmsford are a great side, a very strong one who are bidding for the title.
“We beat league leaders Yeovil a few weeks ago, why can’t we do the same with the side below them?”
Maidstone managed to better Chelmsford during their previous clash in November thanks to a first half strike by recently departed Levi Amantchi, clinching a 1-0 win.
Tonight, Faal will be hoping he can make the different up top for the home side.
“I’ve started of well,” said Faal. “I wanted to get double figures before the end of the season and I’m half way there.
“I know the difference that I can make, whether the gaffer wants me on the left, right or the middle. I’ll do my best to put a shift in wherever I go.”
A win tonight could take Maidstone up to sixth, safely in the play-offs. For Chelmsford, three points would take them within five points of league leaders Yeovil Town.
