GoCardless Kent Women’s Plate Final: Maidstone United 3 Cray Wanderers 0

Maidstone United completed the first part of a possible treble by winning the GoCardless Kent Women’s Plate at the Gallagher Stadium on Thursday night.

A fast start against Cray Wanderers was rewarded as Kelsi Wilkinson gave the Stones an early lead, Tilly Rowsell doubled the advantage after half-time, and substitute Aimee Ascott added a late third.

Cray were a threat going forward but an uncompromising performance from player-of-the-match Millie Waud in central defence, making tackles, headers and interceptions, denied them a route back into the final.

Goalkeeper Cara Davies also made a couple of important saves, including a vital stop at 1-0, as Cray looked set to level, and impressed with her handling and vocal presence.

Maidstone, who reached the FA Cup first round this season, justified their favourites tag, however, and could yet finish the campaign with the treble.

They’re battling with Tonbridge for the South East Counties Women’s Premier Division crown - the teams meet in a potential title-decider on Sunday - and they have the League Cup final to look forward to - also against Cray.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better start,” said Maidstone head coach Nathan Baker, who runs the team alongside player-manager Tori Campbell.

“We spoke about that before we came out, and when you score after five minutes, it settles the nerves.

“The girls had a lot of support behind them and they deserved everything tonight. They were absolutely fantastic.

“The season’s not over yet. We’ve got a long way to go. We’re ticking them off as we go. We call that one of three.

“We’ve got a real tight group here. They spend a lot of time with each other, you don’t really see girls missing training and matches, and they are just desperate to