Manager Jay Saunders is confident Maidstone have the squad to maintain their terrific form – but has warned against getting carried away.

United stormed up to second place in Ryman League Division 1 South with a 3-0 win at Eastbourne Town on Wednesday night.

It was their sixth win in seven league games and a result which leaves them just a point behind leaders Crawley Down with a game in hand.

But Maidstone imploded last season after an even better run, so Saunders (pictured) is taking nothing for granted.

He said: "We all remember what happened last year after a 15-game unbeaten run put us top.

"Everyone was saying we were going to win the league, then we lost our next five on the bounce.

"I’m hoping we’re better equipped to deal with injuries and suspensions than we were last season, but football can change so quickly.

"All I can ask is that we’re within touching distance come Christmas."

United return to FA Trophy action on Saturday when they travel to Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division Bedford in the second qualifying round.

Read the full story in this week's Kent Messenger