Maidstone United caretaker manager George Elokobi proud of players as performance in 3-2 defeat by Wrexham fuels National League survival belief

There was pride in defeat for George Elokobi, who is convinced Maidstone have what it takes to stay up after their performance against Wrexham.

Jack Barham scored twice as United came from 2-0 down at the Gallagher, only for the National League title-chasers to pinch a 3-2 victory in the last minute.

It was a seventh successive league defeat but caretaker boss Elokobi, taking charge of only his second game after last weekend’s FA Trophy win at Notts County, had nothing but praise for his side.

Wrexham’s win extended their unbeaten run to 14 games and sent them level on points with leaders Notts but they certainly knew they’d been in a game.

“The players weren’t fazed by the occasion,” said Elokobi.

“They ensured they ran for each other, they stuck together and made sure all the way they tried to win the game.

“They can take pride in that and their performance and we as a management team are proud of them.

“We know what these players can do. We believe in their technical abilities, we believe in them as individuals and most of all we believe in them as a team.

“I couldn’t fault anyone out there today. My players gave everything.”

Maidstone are three points from safety, with an inferior goal difference, and have played more games than all the sides around them.

But Elokobi is embracing the challenge of reviving their fortunes, however long he’s in charge, and with everyone in it together, he can see them staying in the division.

“I like to think I’m a born leader and to be able to lead, you need to empower each and every individual,” he said.

“You need to listen and you have to make sure that when you listen, you try to apply from everyone’s contribution to make sure it’s in the best interests of the group.

“I’m passionate