Maidstone manager Jay Saunders has told his players to own up if they need a break.

Saunders fears pressure or tiredness could be getting to his side in the Ryman League Premier Division title race.

Stones conceded a late equaliser for the second week running when Leiston rescued a draw from two goals down last weekend. United then lost 2-1 at struggling Hampton & Richmond on Tuesday night.

They remain five points clear at the top ahead of Billericay’s visit to the Gallagher Stadium on Saturday, but second-placed Margate have two games in hand.

Saunders said: “Maybe we’re struggling to cope with the pressure of being top of the league. I get annoyed because I want to win football matches – that’s why I do the job – but I genuinely don’t feel pressure.

“I never felt pressure as a player and I still don’t as a manager. I don’t get the whole pressure thing but everyone’s different and other than taking people out of the team, there’s not a lot you can do.

“I said to the players after Tuesday, ‘you’ve come this far, don’t throw the season away in the last 12 games. If we lose the league we’ll have to adjust for the play-offs but just don’t let it get to you. If you’re tired and need to come out the team, put your hand up and I’ll rest you’."

Craig Stone’s initial one-month loan from Dover is up after the Billericay game, with Saunders keen to extend, while Shane Huke is in contention after recovering from a knee injury.