Maidstone United manager George Elokobi’s reaction to 1-1 draw with Tonbridge Angels which effectively secures National League South play-off spot

George Elokobi described Maidstone’s draw with Tonbridge as a “really good local derby”.

Aaron Blair scored his 20th goal of the season as United took the lead at the Gallagher Stadium on Easter Monday.

But they were denied a 24th clean sheet of the season - which would have been a new National League South record - when Ethan Sutcliffe levelled in the second half.

Stones boss Elokobi didn’t know it at the time, given the early kick-off, but the point effectively secured a play-off place with a game to spare.

They ended the day three points clear of Weston, who lost to title-chasing Truro, but with a vastly superior goal difference.

“It was a tough game, two good teams going at it, but credit to Tonbridge, they made it a really good local derby,” said Elokobi.

“I’ve got to talk about how proud I am of our players.

“I thought their attitude and approach were very positive throughout but we have to polish up how we conceded the goal we did because that’s unlike us.

“But the overall game, the squad has been pushing and today was another point towards our objective.”

Tonbridge grew into the game after falling behind and sent their fans home happy with Sutcliffe’s goal following a long throw midway through the second half.

Elokobi said: “It was down to us to keep a clean sheet but you can’t keep a clean sheet every single game.

“We’ve kept 23 this season, so credit to the players.

Report: Maidstone 1-1 Tonbridge

“Tonbridge made it hard for us and it was down to us, we had chances to put the game to bed but at least we got in those areas where we thought could hurt them.

“It was just about making sure we were nice and composed in front of goal but that wasn’t to be today, so we take a point and move on.

“We just wanted to