Maidstone United 4 Blues 1

Leiston's dream start turned into a nightmare but they will look at a penalty miss mid-way through the second half as the pivotal moment in the match as leaders Maidstone United cemented their lead at the top via a slightly flattering scoreline. The Blues made one change from their midweek Suffolk Premier Cup victory over Bury Town with Blake Saker in the starting line up at the expense of Jack Simmons while new signing Josh Mayhew was absent through injury. In front of nearly 2000 spectators the visitors had a dream start when Adam Tann headed home Gareth Heath's free kick after just two minutes. Joe Francis was fouled out on the left wing by Phil Starkey and from Gareth Heath’s delivery Adam Tann had time to pick his spot for his first goal of the season. The Blues joy lasted all of three minutes before Danny Gay misjudged Frannie Collin’s cross allowing Alex Flisher the opportunity to grab the equaliser. Moments later Danny Gay made a fine stop to deny Sonny Miles as the hosts increased the tempo forcing the visitors back. Leiston were struggling to get out of their own half so it was no real surprise when the Stones took the lead for the first time. A stunning burst down the Blues right flank saw Alex Flisher race past Blake Saker and as he reached the by-line he squared for the unmarked James May who had time to side foot beyond Danny Gay. Leiston were then dealt a blow with Gareth Heath forced to retire to be replaced by Patrick Brothers but the home offensive failed to relent. Danny Gay saved well from Jack Parkinson and then the home side thought they had grabbed a third but Tom Mills effort did not cross the line after initially striking the bar.

The visitors were glad of the half time whistle but resumed after the break with more purpose confidently moving the ball around. Ten minutes into the second half the Blues missed a golden chance to level. Blake Saker finding Patrick Brothers inside the box but he chose precision rather than power and his curled effort was inches the wrong side of Lee Worgan’s upright. The Blues were looking more controlled and on 67 minutes were awarded a penalty. Joe Francis skipped into the box only to be tripped by James Rogers to earn his second penalty in as many Saturday’s. But unlike the previous fixture against Enfield Town this penalty failed to find the net after a fine save from Lee Worgan to keep out Stuart Boardley’s spot kick and then the Stones stopper made a stunning save as Stuart Boardley reacted quickly to reach the rebound. Seven minutes later the hosts punished the Blues for the miss as James May grabbed his second of the game. It looked as though Patrick Brothers would clear the initial danger but he allowed Alex Flisher to steal and then cross for May to head home. The game was sealed in the final ten minutes as the lively Alex Flisher had time to beat Danny Gay after Jack Parkinson’s ball over the Blues defence allowed Flisher a clear run at goal.

FT – Maidstone United 4 Leiston 1

Blues line up – Gay, Saker, Boardley (Simmons 70 mins), Tann, Jefford, Bullard, Mitchell, Heath (Brothers 31 mins), Ottley-Gooch (Winter 45 mins), Parker, Francis. Sub not used – Rossis

Goals – Alex Flisher 6 mins, 80 mins, James May 24 mins, 74 mins (Maidstone United), Adam Tann 2 mins (Leiston)

Yellow card – Adam Tann (Leiston)

Man of the Match – Adam Tann