Dartford 2 Maidstone United 1

DARTFORD are up to fourth in Ryman League Division 1 South after a narrow 2-1 win over Kent rivals Maidstone United.

Darts took the lead nine minutes before the break when Richard Avery shot low past Stones keeper Pat Mullin.

The home side found themselves two up with 20 minutes left when midfielder Eddie McClements netted from 18 yards to round off a Dartford break away.

Maidstone's Nick Barnes ensured a tense finish when he scored from the penalty spot in the 76th minute after Leroy Huggins had been fouled, but the visitors couldn't find an equaliser.

Stones revealed the signing of defender Lee Shearer from Ryman League Premier Division side Folkestone Invicta before kick-off. He is in line for a debut at the weekend.