MAIDSTONE United FC have been hit with a huge blow ahead of their biggest game of the season. Ian Court will miss the FA Carlsberg Vase first round proper tie at home to Bedfont on Sunday (kick-off 2pm).

The striker has been one of Stones' most influential players this season but has failed to recover from a calf injury picked up during last weekend's 4-0 win over Greenwich in the Bass Brewers Kent League.

"This is a big disappointment but he has been unable to train and will not even make the bench," said manager Jim Ward. "This is a great chance for Steve Jones who will now start up front with Richard Sinden on Sunday."

Jones is Stones' record signing but he has not established himself in the side, largely because of injury. Player-coach Steve Robinson returns to the starting line-up while striker Tundi Utsaja is in the squad.

Stones are hoping for a crowd of around 400 for the match at Sittingbourne's Central Park.

The Maidstone supporters meeting will take place at the Post Official Social Club in Sandling Road on Wednesday (8pm) and Stones will entertain Erith Town in the second round of the Kent Senior Trophy on December 1.