Maidstone are cup underdogs again this weekend, but it’s not a problem for boss Jay Saunders.

Few expected the Stones to beat Margate last week in the FA Trophy – which they did 2-1 – and Saunders’ side face another team from the division above on Saturday when they travel to East Thurrock in the FA Cup third qualifying round.

Saunders, pictured, said: "We go into the game as underdogs as we’re playing a team from the league above, but that takes the pressure off the players.

"In our league, with our new stadium and the name Maidstone United, we are always expected to be rolling teams over but the league is not easy.

"When we go to the likes of Margate and now East Thurrock, people are not expecting us to get a great deal. It’s good for the players to have that pressure off them."

The Stones won all of their games in September and have already banked more than £12,000 in prize funds from FA competitions. Another £7,500 is up for grabs this weekend to the winner.

Goalkeeper Deren Ibrahim could be fit again so Saunders will have to decide whether to bring him back or retain Charlie Mitten. Graham Andrews is also back training and could be fit to return.