Man for man we're better than Ashford, insists Walker

Maidstone United joint-manager Alan Walker is confident his side can add more misery on Ashford Town at Bourne Park tonight, writes Stephen McCartney.

Ashford slipped into the relegation places last night as results went against them, including Tooting & Mitcham United’s 2-1 win over Dartford, which prevented Tony Burman’s side regaining top spot in the Ryman League Division One South table.

But the Stones can climb three places to eighth if they collect all three points in tonight’s only league game.

Despite picking up a point in their 2-2 draw at Horsham YMCA at the weekend, Walker told www.maidstoneunited.co.uk that he was pleased with their improved performance.

He said: “Saturday was once again another good performance and I’m sure anyone there would agree it was much improved from a few weeks earlier.

“So it was disappointing only to come away with a point despite our domination of the game.

“The goals we conceded were sloppy, (Jason) Barton losing his man for the first goal and (Lee) Shearer being caught cold just after the break, but the lads showed great resilience to come back twice and we really did bombard their goal, especially from our set pieces.

“But we just didn't have the luck seeing us strike the post and balls cleared off the line. But given the situation we're in, the strikers have done really well, and we continue in the hunt for another with no cover in that area at the moment. However, we won't be panicked into taking on the first available striker, he must be right for the squad.”

Despite Ashford bringing in three loan signings in Drew Watkins and Adam O’Neill from Tonbridge Angels, and Luke Coleman, a teenage striker from Gravesend & Northfleet, Walker insists he has the better side.

“If we continue to play the way we have recently, it's a game we will win,” he said. “Man for man I believe we have the better squad.

“Yes they've brought in new players and that could give them a lift, but equally, they won't be used to playing with each other.”

The Stones could be bolstered by the return of midfielders Jimmy Stouts and Sam Tydeman, although Ashford Town will be without Barry Crawford.

Stones travel to Ryman Premier League side Chelmsford City in the first qualifying round of the FA Trophy on Saturday, whilst Ashford welcome basement boys Corinthians Casuals to the Homelands.

But if Ashford win these next two games then they will have the same number of points (12) as Maidstone United and will occupy a more healthier league position.

Visit both club’s websites:

www.maidstoneunited.co.uk

www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk

Maidstone United v Ashford Town
Ryman League Division One South
Wednesday 18^th October 2006
Kick Off 7:45pm
At Sittingbourne FC, Bourne Park, Central Park Complex, Eurolink, Church Road, Sittingbourne