Dartford need just 14 more points to seal the Ryman Premier Division title and promotion to the Conference South after a convincing home win against Maidstone United.

Tony Burman's side went ahead as early as the 11th minute when Danny Dafter scored from close range. Moments earlier, Danny Hockton had an opportunity to put the visitors ahead, but headed wide after a bright start by Peter Nott's side.

Dartford found themselves 2-0 ahead before the break, but in controversial circumstances. Appeals for offside from the Maidstone defence fell on deaf ears as Alan Tate was allowed to run through, before squaring the ball to Lee Burns, who tapped home his 21st goal of the season on 34 minutes.

The league leaders continued to dominate in the second half and were grateful to Stones defender James Peacock's lapse in judgement after 82 minutes. Ryan Hayes was the beneficiary of an ill-placed pass across the back of the defence and ran through unmarked to slot home the third of the afternoon.

The afternoon was made even less memorable for the travelling support when Roland Edge was given his marching orders four minutes from time.

A poorly timed challenge by the central defender on substitute Rob Haworth gave the referee no option but to show him a straight red card.