Here we go then Tudors, matchday 14 is upon us! Tomorrow afternoon, we are tasked with an away day down to Kent to take on Maidstone United in what will be our final game of October. As we look to get back to winning ways at The Gallagher stadium, tomorrow's opponents have seen some fortune recently, following a tough start to the season. Let's take a closer look at The Stones...
Founded: 1897 Nickname: The Stones Stadium: The Gallagher Stadium Capacity: 4,200 (792 seated) Manager: George Elokobi
Let's get it then Tudors, a visit to Maidstone United. Tomorrow's hosts come into this matchup on fine form, being unbeaten in both the league and cup since early September, the sort of form that earned them their well recognized FA Cup fifth round finish, last campaign. On the topic of the FA Cup, tomorrow's opponents again look to seek success in the FA Cup in 24/25, having beaten rivals, Ebbsfleet United, in the fourth qualifying round, two weeks ago. Despite The Stones' recent run of form, they currently sit just outside of the relegation spots in nineteenth place. On the other hand, The Tudors look to build on Monday night's well fought point, against Chelmsford City at The Focus Community Arena.
Credit: Club photographer, Jemma Sear (@_photosbyjem)
History of The Stones
Despite being founded in 1897, Maidstone United reformed in 1992 following liquidation earlier in the year. Once reformed in 92, the club would not be known as Maidstone United, but go by the name of Maidstone Invicta and would play in the Fourth Division of the Kent County League. Three years on in 1995, The Stones would then reclaim their original name 'Maidstone United' and would continue to work their way up through the divisions.
In 2010/11, the club would find themselves relegated for the first time ever in their history, falling to the Ryman League Division One South. With disappointment striking the club, plans were ongoing to move into a new home, also known as The Gallagher. In 2012, the Kent side would move into their current home, and would play in front of an astounding crowd of 2,226 as Maidstone took on Brighton & Hove Albion.
A massive part of The Stones history is that FA Cup run they achieved in the 2023/24 season, reaching the fifth round of the FA Cup, being knocked out by Championship side, Coventry City at the CBS Arena. On the way to the fifth round, the club would defeat the likes of Barrow, Stevenage and recently promoted Premier League side, Ipswich Town.
Credit: Club photographer, Jemma Sear (@_photosbyjem)
The Gaffer - George Elokobi
An important part of The Stones success over recent years, has been due to manager, George Elokobi. Although the Cameroonian is current manager of The Stones, Elokobi would also play in the heart of the defence for the club back in 2019/20. As well as playing for Maidstone, the 37-year old would also play for the likes of Colchester, Wolves, Bristol City, Leyton Orient & Braintree.
Played for Both - Arj Krasniqi
At the start of the 2023/24 season, The Tudors would make the signing of Arj Krasniqi on a free transfer following his time at fellow National League South side, Chelmsford City. In his short spell with the Tudors, the midfielder would score once in his time with the club. In December of 2023, Arj would find himself joining Aveley in which would then make the short move over to Maidstone at the beginning of this season.
We hope those joining us at The Gallagher Stadium tomorrow afternoon, have a safe journey. Don't forget to send us your away day pictures on our social media pages!
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