Maidstone United’s first game on their return to the Ryman League Premier Division ended with crowd trouble.

Travelling fans from Wealdstone clashed with United fans following their 1-1 draw on Saturday. Opposing fans are not segregated at the ground.

Going into the season the two clubs have been listed as second and third favourites to lift the titles.

Club spokesman Ian Tucker said: “It’s very disappointing that the actions of a handful of people have diverted the attention from what was an excellent footballing spectacle.

"We will not allow these individuals to spoil the matchday experience for more than 2,000 people and are making sure they are identified and dealt with.”

Preston Chalk, a Kent Police inspector, said: “We were called at 4:50pm on Saturday, August 10 to concerns about crowd behaviour at the football match between Maidstone United and Wealdstone United.

“Officers were deployed to the area, the town centre and the railway station to help manage the situation, reassure the public and to keep the peace.

"There had been some verbal altercations but no crimes were reported and no arrests made.”

Bookmakers have priced United 8/1 to land the title at the first attempt.