Bookmakers think Maidstone have the Ryman League Premier Division in the bag – but manager Jay Saunders doesn’t agree.

Stones opened up a 12-point lead after winning at Billericay on Monday night. That’s since been cut to nine by a Hendon side who still have a game in hand, while Margate – 13 points back in third – have three matches to make up on United.

Odds-on favourites Maidstone are priced 1/10 to take the title, with Margate 15/2 and Hendon 14/1.

Saunders, who takes his side to in-form Leatherhead on Saturday, isn’t getting ahead of himself.

He said: “We can’t get carried away and I know we won’t with the group of lads we’ve got.

"I don’t think Hendon or Margate will fold until it’s mathematically impossible for them to win the league. They both have experienced squads and we’ve all got to play each other.

“Nothing’s won yet but if we win our next four games, we’ll have a good chance.”

Stones could have a new midfielder in place for Leatherhead and Saunders was due to hold talks on Thursday night, while captain Steve Watt is available after completing a three-match ban.