Maidstone boss Jay Saunders says staying in the National League would be an even bigger achievement than getting there.

Stones reached the top flight of non-league football on the back of three promotions in four seasons but are finding it hard as one of the few part-time clubs in a division awash with money.

They go to fellow strugglers Guiseley tomorrow (Saturday) one place and two points clear of the bottom four.

Saunders said: “Don’t get me wrong, three promotions in four years is unbelievable but staying in this league would be massive, I think even bigger.

“We knew it was a serious league. It’s like being in the Football League.

“Let’s be honest, it’s not non-league. You can’t call it a semi-professional league.

“Not many do two evenings a week, like us. There’s North Ferriby and maybe one or two more but that’s it.”

Stones had to replace their 3G pitch over the summer and co-owners Terry Casey and Oliver Ash are also spending £750,000 on a new stand to bring the Gallagher up to National League requirements.

On top of that, they are doing everything to help bring in new players.

Saunders said: “I know there’s a lot of talk about the budget but Terry and Oliver are always supportive. They always back us in any way they can.

“If the pitch hadn’t got done we wouldn’t have been allowed in the league and if the stand isn’t built we can’t stay in the league.

"That didn't take priority over the football - it's work that had to be done.

"I just don't think people realise the money clubs are paying in this league."

Read the full interview in Friday's Kent Messenger