Maidstone United romped to a 4‑1 victory over local rivals Welling United in an entertaining International Club Friendly on 11 July 2026. The match, staged at the Gallagher Stadium, saw the National League South side produce a dominant attacking display that delighted the home crowd.

Match Summary

Maidstone were on the front foot from the first whistle, racing into a two‑goal lead within 25 minutes. A well‑worked team goal opened the scoring, followed by a powerful header from a corner. Welling pulled one back just before half‑time with a swift counter‑attack, but Maidstone regained control after the break. Two more goals in the second half sealed a comprehensive win, with the substitutes making a significant impact.

Goal Timeline

• 12' – Maidstone 1‑0: A flowing move ended with a calm finish across the goalkeeper.
• 24' – Maidstone 2‑0: A towering header from a set‑piece doubled the advantage.
• 44' – Maidstone 2‑1: Welling’s striker latched onto a through ball and slotted low into the corner.
• 63' – Maidstone 3‑1: A deflected shot from outside the box restored the two‑goal cushion.
• 78' – Maidstone 4‑1: A late breakaway saw the substitute forward round the goalkeeper and roll the ball into an empty net.

Pre‑Season Implications

Maidstone United’s fluid attacking play and high press impressed, especially given it is early in pre‑season. Welling United struggled to contain the hosts’ movement in the final third, though their goal showed they can be dangerous on the break. The result will boost morale for Maidstone as they fine‑tune their tactics before the league campaign begins.

Both teams will have plenty to work on in training, but for the neutrals, this friendly offered an entertaining glimpse of the season ahead.