by Andrew Gidley

Maidstone will be hoping for some early home comforts when they open their new Ryman League Premier Division campaign against Carshalton at Ashford on Saturday.

They have adjusted quickly to their new surroundings on and off the pitch, moving to Homelands after seven years ground-sharing at Sittingbourne, and joint-boss Lloyd Hume believes the switch has gone well.

He said: "We have performed well there in pre-season and it already feels like home.

"Everyone has made us feel welcome. Now we are looking for a good start against Carshalton who are one of the favourites this season."

Stones’ line-up for the opening game is set to be a real mix of youth and experience, with several promising youngsters in the frame.

They are also without Roland Edge, skipper Jay Saunders and the returning Nick Barnes, who all serve suspensions held over from last season.

Hume (pictured) said: "Tom Parkinson, James Peacock, Ant Bodle and Ashley Dann are all set to get their chance along with new boys Danny Stubbs and Jimmy Bottle."

Hume will watch the game from the stands as he begins a six-match touchline ban.