In a thrilling friendly encounter at Kennington on 20th July 2025, Maidstone United KYL U14 emerged victorious with a commanding 5-2 win against their hosts, Kennington U14. The match kicked off at 2:30pm and showcased a display of attacking flair and resolute defending from the visitors.
Maidstone United lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to balance solid defensive stability with attacking prowess. Ollie Higginson took his place in goal, while Blake Vince and Max Carney operated as right and left defenders respectively, flanking central defenders Liam Rich and Bertie Hayward. The midfield duo of Tosan and Eddie Ambrose provided the backbone, with Harrison Smith positioned as an attacking midfielder. Up front, Rylee Body and Sawyer Booth occupied the flanks, supporting striker Zaff in a dynamic attacking trio. The substitutes for Maidstone included Tommy Monaghan and Tank Evans.
The match began with an explosive start as Harrison Smith scored within just two minutes, converting a precise assist from Zaff with his left foot. This early goal set the tone for Maidstone's attacking intent. Just moments later, Liam Rich showcased his defensive capabilities with a crucial block, preventing Kennington from finding an immediate response.
As the game progressed, Blake Vince demonstrated his playmaking skills with a precise pass in the sixth minute, although it failed to create a clear chance. Eddie Ambrose was quick to follow suit, defending well in the seventh minute before Bertie Hayward executed a vital tackle to thwart a Kennington attack.
In the eighth minute, Sawyer Booth attempted to extend Maidstone's lead but was unable to find the back of the net. Ollie Higginson, however, was called into action shortly after, making a point-blank reaction save to keep the scoreline intact. Ambrose continued to influence the game, delivering a long pass in the eleventh minute, although it did not lead to a scoring opportunity.
Blake Vince's defensive contributions were notable as he made a tackle in the eleventh minute, preventing a potential chance for Kennington. The match saw its first substitution in the thirteenth minute when Tommy Monaghan replaced the injured Bertie Hayward.
Vince's influence on the game was further highlighted when he provided a slide rule pass that led to Zaff's goal in the fourteenth minute, doubling Maidstone's lead. Zaff's close-range finish showcased his poacher's instinct, putting Maidstone firmly in control.
The visitors continued to press, with Zaff attempting another shot shortly after, which was saved by the Kennington goalkeeper. Tosan then had a chance of his own, but his effort sailed high over the bar. Eddie Ambrose's interception in the eighteenth minute prevented Kennington from mounting a counter-attack, while Liam’s long pass in the nineteenth minute was another example of Maidstone's attacking intent.
As the first half progressed, Maidstone's defence remained resolute, with Liam making a crucial tackle in the twenty-second minute to deny Kennington a chance. However, a push by Blake Vince resulted in a foul in the twenty-fifth minute, giving Kennington a brief respite. Rylee Body's attempt in the twenty-sixth minute went high, but the visitors were soon rewarded when Zaff scored again in the twenty-seventh minute, converting from close range.
Despite being flagged offside shortly after, Zaff's contributions were pivotal. Eddie Ambrose's long pass in the twenty-ninth minute created another opportunity, while Liam's defensive efforts continued to shine, preventing a chance with a tackle in the thirtieth minute.
The first half concluded with a score of 4-0 in favour of Maidstone. The second half began with a flurry of chances for Maidstone including Liam’s headed effort hitting the crossbar from a corner, precisely delivered by Max in the 44th minute. However, Kennington showing signs of life. Just minutes into the half, a defensive mistake allowed Kennington to score in the fifty-ninth minute, narrowing the deficit.
Maidstone responded well, with Harrison Smith making a key pass in the sixtieth minute, but Zaff's attempt in the sixty-first minute went high. Liam’s defensive work in the sixty-third minute was crucial, as he made a tackle to thwart another Kennington attack.
The sixty-fourth minute saw Harrison Smith score Maidstone's fifth goal, with Tommy Monaghan providing a precise cross. However, Kennington was not done yet, as a foul by Tommy Monaghan in the sixty-ninth minute led to a penalty, which Kennington converted in the final minute of the match.
Ultimately, Maidstone United KYL U14's attacking prowess and solid defensive display earned them a well-deserved 5-2 victory, showcasing their potential as they prepare for future challenges.
