Maidstone United KYL U14 faced off against Aldershot FC in an engaging encounter at their home ground in Maidstone on 12 July 2025, kicking off at 1:45pm. The match concluded with a convincing 3-1 victory for Maidstone, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation.
Maidstone lined up in a 4-3-2-1 formation, a tactical setup designed to provide both defensive stability and attacking flexibility. Ollie Higginson took his place in goal, while the back four consisted of Liam Rich on the right, Bertie Hayward and Danny Daines in central defence, and Tommy Monaghan on the left. The midfield trio featured Edward Ambrose on the right, Zayn Clements centrally, and Harrison Smith on the left, providing a blend of creativity and work rate. Ahead of them, Sawyer Booth and Bernie Farley operated as right and left attacking midfielders respectively, supporting the lone striker, Zaph, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing chances.
The substitutes for Maidstone included Tank Evans, Cruz, Rylee Body, Tosan, and Blake Vincent, providing depth and options for tactical adjustments throughout the match.
The game started brightly for Maidstone, with Zaph opening the scoring just four minutes in. A well-timed press on the Aldershot goalkeeper forced the steal which he easily slotted home, setting the tone for the match.
Harrison Smith doubled the lead in the 16th minute with a stunning strike from outside the area, expertly assisted by Edward Ambrose. Smith's effort was a testament to Maidstone's attacking intent, as he unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net, leaving the opposition stunned.
Just three minutes later, Sawyer Booth added a third for Maidstone, scoring from a corner kick. With bodies in the way, his right-footed effort curled perfectly into the net, Maidstone firmly in control at 3-0.
Maidstone continued with a barrage of shots from Bernie Farley and Zain Clements hitting the woodwork from range on multiple occasions. Aldershot breathing a sigh of relief.
In a flurry of substitutions at the 20-minute mark, Maidstone made tactical changes, bringing on Tank Evans for Harrison Smith, Cruz for Zaph, and Rylee Body for Zayn Clements. These changes aimed to maintain the momentum while ensuring fresh legs were on the pitch.
Aldershot managed to pull one back in the 33rd minute, scoring their only goal of the match. This momentary lapse in Maidstone's defence allowed the visitors to find the net, but it did little to dampen the home side's spirits as they headed into half-time with a 3-1 lead.
The second half saw further substitutions for Maidstone, with Liam Rich returning to the pitch for Edward Ambrose and Zayn Clements coming back on for Sawyer Booth. Harrison Smith also re-entered the fray, replacing Bertie Hayward, as Maidstone looked to maintain their advantage.
As the match progressed, Maidstone continued to control the game, with Danny Daines and Blake Vincent making way for each other in the 60th minute, followed by Sawyer Booth returning for Tank Evans shortly after. The substitutions were strategic, aimed at keeping the intensity high and the opposition on the back foot.
In the 61st minute, Edward Ambrose rejoined the action, taking the place of Tosan, while Tommy Monaghan came on for Harrison Smith in the 69th minute, ensuring Maidstone's defensive line remained solid as they sought to close out the game.
Despite Aldershot's attempts to find a way back into the match, Maidstone's defence held firm, and the home side comfortably saw out the remainder of the game. The final whistle confirmed a well-deserved 3-1 victory for Maidstone United KYL U14, a performance that highlighted their attacking capabilities and resilience in defence.
