The F.A. Cup comes to Kent on Saturday as Maidstone United host Welling United in what is arguably the biggest game since the Stones moved into the Gallagher Stadium.

An anticipated full house will be able to get a glimpse of the most famous domestic football trophy in the world as well as an intriguing cup tie.

On paper, a team playing two divisions higher in the league pyramid should be expected to win. However, the Stones, with a noisy crowd behind them, will be confident of causing an upset.

Top of the Ryman Premier, Jay Saunders’ team are brimming with self belief. They have won 14 out of their 16 league games and have a 100% home record in all tournaments.

Meanwhile, Welling United have only won once on their travels this season and are hampered by injury and suspension that will see them without Chris Bush, Jamie Day, Loui Fazakerley, Zac Fagan, Tobi Sho-Siva and Jamie Turner.

Turner’s Absence was a particular concern as Jonathan Henly has not been permitted to play in the F.A. Cup so Lee Butcher returns on non contract terms and Benji Buchel, a 25 year old with 8 full international caps for Liechtenstein has signed on loan from AFC Bournemouth until January.

Day has also bolstered his squad with the signing of 6’5” centre half, Michael Chambers who has joined on a one month loan from Crystal Palace.

A quartet of Stones players have previously played for Welling. Jack Parkinson is a former Welling captain, Matt Bodkin scored his first Wings goal in the F.A. Cup, Ben Greenhalgh was at Park View Road before going to A.C. Milan and Jamie Coyle was signed by Day from Dartford.

Both teams should enjoy playing in the packed ground with the knowledge that the victors would take their place in the first round with a potential tie against a big Football League club.