Maidstone United manager Hakan Hayrettin says their late winner against St Albans was the sign of champions as they chase 12th successive home win against Havant

Hakan Hayrettin says Maidstone’s dramatic win against St Albans was the sign of champions.

Hayrettin’s side opened up a four-point lead at the top of National League South following Johl Powell’s 96th-minute strike in a 3-2 victory last weekend.

It was the third time in four home matches United have scored a late winner as they extended their advantage over title rivals Dorking.

Hayrettin saw title-winning qualities after Maidstone recovered from the disappointment of blowing a two-goal lead but stressed there’s a long way to go, with seven matches still to play.

“To win like that, I think it’s the sign of champions but nothing’s over until it’s over,” said Hayrettin, whose team host Havant this Saturday.

“We’ve got a lot of games to play, a lot of big games. We just need to keep winning.

“Let’s have a look at Havant and go again.”

Maidstone have been unstoppable at the Gallagher in recent months, winning their past 11 league games.

It’s a phenomenal record for a club who have struggled at home in previous years.

Be it the weight of expectation, away teams raising their game or even suggestions the pitch was too small, there have been no shortage of theories bandied about.

Hayrettin, though, has transformed Maidstone’s fortunes at the Gallagher and long may it continue.

“The pitch isn’t too small but teams do raise their game,” said Hayrettin.

“I’ve got our players mentally prepared to realise that without the hard work and working harder than the opposition at home, you’re not going to win.

“You haven’t got a divine right to turn up here, put your boots on and because you’re playing for Maidstone, you’re going to win.

“You’ve got to earn the right. You’ve got to run more than the opposition, you’ve got to work harder