In front of a full house at the Gallagher Stadium, Ryman Premier leaders Maidstone United upset Vanarama Conference Premier Welling United in the fourth qualifying round F.A. Cup tie.

There was only one team in the first half as the Stones belied the two divisions difference and had several chances to score.

Jack Parkinson gave them the start that they wanted when heading home Alex Flisher’s cross in the fourth minute.

High balls into the penalty area troubled Welling throughout the half although they were not helped as debutant goalkeeper Benji Buchel was given no protection by the referee.

Jay May flicked Jamie Coyle’s misdirected shot over, Frannie Collin’s lob was just too high and Parkinson was unable to keep another header down as Maidstone looked for the all important second goal.

Steve Watt then headed wide before Lee Worgan had to be sharp as Tyrone Marsh attempted to burst through for Welling.

Worgan had to make a fine save from Kieron St. Aimie soon after as the Wings’ striker shot fiercely from ten yards out.

Buchel was also busy at the other end when tipping a Collin free kick over.

Shortly after the break, Worgan made an outstanding save from St. Aimie’s powerful downward header before the Stones doubled their lead on the break.

Tom Mills took advantage of the Welling defence having gone up for a set piece by charging away before drawing out Buchel and squaring for Collin to tap home.

An immediate response was required, and Welling got that when Jake Gallagher burst through before forcing home.

Aristede Bassele got a shot away after a fine Welling move but Worgan was down well to make a good save.

It looked like Welling had the momentum, but the industry of the hosts drew the sting out of them and had another good chance to score but Watt shot wide.

As the game drifted towards a close, the Stones had another great chance when Joe Healy headed Jamie Coyle’s header off the line but Welling did not threaten again and Maidstone completed their giant killing act.

They now enter the 1^st round draw for the first time in twenty-five years hoping for a suitable reward for their achievements.

 

Maidstone United: Worgan, Coyle, Mills, Watt, Miles, Rogers, Bodkin (Jordan 84), Parkinson, May, Collin (Brown 78), Flisher.

Unused substitutes: Robertson, Greenhalgh, Davies, King, Godman.

Welling United: Buchel, Williams, Jefford, Gallagher, Chambers, Fyfield, Bassele (Nouble 77), Beautyman, Marsh (Hudson 61), St. Aimie, Healy.

Unused substitutes: Butcher, Corne, Fagan, Penny.

Referee: Rob Whitton

Attendance: 2,226

Man of the match: Alex Flisher

Pictures supplied by Dave Budden.