Maidstone United manager George Elokobi challenges his defenders to chip in with more goals after Reiss Greenidge’s winner against Weston

George Elokobi called for more goals from Maidstone defenders after Reiss Greenidge’s winner against Weston.

Greenidge’s 71st-minute header gave United a 1-0 victory at the Gallagher Stadium on Saturday.

It was the big centre-back’s first goal since his winner against Slough on the opening day and an important one, too, with the result sending United fifth in National League South.

Stones boss Elokobi has preached all season about the need for his defenders to chip in with goals.

He wants them to follow Greenidge’s lead as they set about securing a play-off spot in the final seven games.

“It’s a skill that we must practise,” said Elokobi.

“I’ve said this since pre-season, as a defender you have to practise your skills.

“It’s not just in the defensive third but also in the attacking third.

“If you go up there, you want to try and score a goal or assist a goal - that’s your job - and I’m sure the other boys will take on the challenge.

“How many goals can our defenders score by the end of the season to help the team?

“A defender has helped the team today in Reiss Greenidge. Our forward players have been doing that for us and it’s good to see Reiss grabbing the bull by the horns.”

Elokobi feels a player of Greenidge’s stature is capable of scoring double figures in a season.

At 6ft6in, he towers over rivals and must cash in.

He delivered against Weston after meeting Sam Corne’s free-kick.

“He can score 10 goals a season,” said Elokobi. “It’s about targets.

“Our job is to make sure we challenge our players as best as we can and that’s a challenge to him.

“If I’m a 6ft-plus player, I should be using that height advantage, not just at defensive set-plays but also attacking set-plays.

“I should be a threat. He always poses that