A leading sports psychologist has given Maidstone players a mental edge for the season run-in.

The squad were treated to a session with Roberto Forzoni, a man whose clients include two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray.

Forzoni has worked with a number of football clubs, credited with helping West Ham pull off an unlikely escape from relegation with seven wins in their last nine games in 2007.

He's also assisted the likes of Fulham, Charlton, Brighton, Crystal Palace and Southampton over the years.

Forzoni was recommended to Stones boss Jay Saunders by Damian Matthew, the former Charlton coach who's now assistant manager to Chris Powell at Southend.

And he made an impact after his talk with Maidstone beating National League title contenders Sutton last weekend and forcing a late draw against leaders Macclesfield on Wednesday.

Saunders, whose side go to Wrexham on Saturday, said: "I am one that likes to try different things.

"I'm open to anything and I just felt we were in a position where mentally in games, probably the last 10 minutes, we were finding it tough to see games out.

"Roberto came in and had a good chat with us and I really enjoyed it and I think the players really enjoyed it.

"It's funny because me and Oliver (Ash, co-owner) were texting each other and basically texted the same thing at the same time saying we might look to get someone in.

"He was fully supportive and I think it was beneficial.

"The good thing with Roberto was he didn't come in and go too serious and in-depth.

"You might not agree with everything but you take certain things out of it and if you get something out of it then it's worthwhile.

"You could see he had them all engaged, they were listening and hopefully they have taken something out of it."

Maidstone captain Stuart Lewis appreciated Forzoni's words.

He said: "It's always good to listen to what someone has to say and it's important you take information on board.

"A lot of what he said I try to do or I've spoken to a lot of people over the years about what you should do as an individual and as a person.

"I think the main thing is hard work. That's what I believe in. The harder you work, the luckier you get and you get the results.

"That's the key to everything in life. If you work hard then you'll get your just rewards.

"You might have a few stumbles, because that's life, but ultimately if you can work hard and stick together then you'll get the outcome."