Maidstone United KYL U14 Secure 3-1 Win Over Chatham Town U14

Maidstone United KYL U14 hosted Chatham Town U14 at The Gallagher Stadium on 9 November 2025, with kick-off at 10:00am in a 70-minute cup tie. The home side emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, demonstrating control and resilience throughout the match.

Maidstone lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, deploying Ollie Higginson in goal. The defensive line consisted of Liam Rich at right back, Danny Lowe and Captain Eddie Ambrose as central defenders, and Max Carney on the left. In midfield, Tosan Okomi and Tank Evans operated centrally, providing both defensive cover and forward impetus. Harrison Smith took the attacking midfield role, linking play between midfield and the front three. Up front, the trio featured Rylee Rodgers on the right, Zaph Kouassi as the central striker, and Sawyer Booth on the left. The substitutes available were Bernie Farley, Zane Clements, Bertie Hayward, Blake Vince, and Tommy Monaghan. Cruz Robinson was also in attendance, showing his support from the technical area.

From the outset, Maidstone showed intent. Within the first minute, Tosan Okomi’s early attempt was blocked, while Danny Lowe quickly intercepted a threat at the back. Zaph Kouassi also tested the opposition keeper with a shot that was comfortably saved. Rylee Rodgers then delivered a long key pass in the third minute, creating an early chance, though Sawyer Booth’s subsequent effort flew high over the bar.

The early exchanges saw Maidstone’s defenders busy, with Max Carney winning a header and Liam Rich clearing danger shortly after. Rodgers and Carney combined well, with Rodgers clearing a threat and Carney firing wide from distance. Danny Lowe’s slide rule pass in the sixth minute carved open a chance, while interceptions and tackles from Eddie Ambrose and Tank Evans helped maintain defensive solidity.

Sawyer Booth continued to press, forcing saves and creating opportunities, including a long pass that set up attacking moves. Kouassi’s long passes and flicks kept the Chatham defence on alert, while Ambrose’s timely tackles and headers quelled several advances. Liam Rich and Ollie Higginson were also instrumental in clearing crosses and shots, ensuring Maidstone’s goal remained well protected.

The breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Zaph Kouassi provided a a through ball to Sawyer Booth, who curved the ball expertly into the top corner with his right foot. This goal rewarded Maidstone’s early pressure and attacking intent. The defence remained vigilant, with Lowe and Rodgers making crucial clearances and tackles to keep Chatham at bay.

As the first half progressed, Maidstone’s midfield and defence worked tirelessly to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm. Harrison Smith’s header and Liam Rich’s clearances were vital in repelling attacks. Kouassi’s flicks and passes continued to create chances, while the defensive unit, including Tank Evans and Tosan Okomi, made key tackles and interceptions.

At half-time, Maidstone held a 1-0 lead. At the break, Tank Evans was replaced by Bernie Farley, and Rylee Rodgers made way for Zane Clements, signalling a tactical refresh. Shortly after, Harrison Smith and Liam Rich were substituted for Bertie Hayward and Blake Vince respectively, with Tommy Monaghan also coming on for Max Carney.

The second half saw Maidstone maintain their attacking threat. Bernie Farley’s slide rule and long passes created several chances, while Zane Clements’ precise passing and defensive blocks added stability.

In the 43rd minute, Tosan Okomi doubled the lead with a precise right-footed strike from outside the box, assisted by Max Carney. This goal extended Maidstone’s advantage and boosted their confidence. Shortly after, Bertie Hayward’s introduction added energy to the midfield, contributing with key tackles and clearances.

Tommy Monaghan and Blake Vince made an immediate impact with headers and interceptions at 46 minutes, as Zane Clements continued to pressure the Chatham defence with well timed runs and slide rule passes creating chances in the 51st minute.

Despite a missed penalty by Kouassi in the 52nd minute, Maidstone’s dominance was clear. Chatham Town pulled a goal back in the 62nd minute. Maidstone responded swiftly, as Bernie Farley’s effort was high from a well timed pass from Rylee Rodgers.

In the 71st minute, Rylee Rodgers scored from close range with his left foot inside the box, assisted by Bertie Hayward’s bicycle kick attempt, sealing the victory.

Throughout the match, Maidstone’s defence, remained resolute, with Danny Lowe and Liam Rich making numerous clearances, headers, and tackles. Ollie Higginson’s goalkeeping was assured, with several crucial saves and clearances preserving the clean sheet for much of the game.

Sawyer Booth was awarded the accolade of Player of the Match, for his persistent attacking prowess and a superb finish. Maidstone United KYL U14’s tactical discipline, combined with effective attacking play and defensive resilience, earned them a well-deserved 3-1 triumph over Chatham Town U14 in this cup encounter at The Gallagher Stadium.