George Elokobi admits Maidstone’s Kent Senior Cup tie at Welling will give him a chance to play some fringe players tonight.
The Stones, looking to retain the cup this season, are to visit Park View Road in the second round (kick-off 7.45pm). Maidstone are 15th in National League South - only a point ahead of the Wings, having played two league fixtures less - and are on an eight-match unbeaten run in all competitions after they earned their first home league win this term as they saw off Hemel Hempstead Town 1-0 last weekend.
But neither side are expected to be at full-strength, especially with the Stones at Solihull Moors in the FA Cup first round on Saturday. “Each and every player has been working exceptionally hard in training to force their way into the team,” said Maidstone manager Elokobi. “But when the team plays well, there’s only so many changes you can make. “We have to respect Welling in terms of our preparations but Tuesday night gives us a chance to give some of our fringe players plenty of minutes.” Stones find out FA Trophy opponents Report: Maidstone 1-0 Hemel Hempstead Town Elokobi: Plenty of unselfish work on display in home win Welling, managed by Rod Stringer, suffered a 2-1 weekend defeat at Dorking despite defender Chiori Johnson’s late consolation.
Midfielder TJ Bramble played almost an hour in goal after a first-half injury to Rhys Lovett. They return to league matters at home to fellow strugglers Chippenham this weekend.