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Gavin Hoyte sees promotion potential at Maidstone this season - but is urging caution.
United, third in National South, meet leaders Dartford at the Gallagher tomorrow in what will be a big test of Hakan Hayrettin’s side.
The early signs looking promising for the Stones, winning four of their opening six games and losing just once.
Hoyte is confident Maidstone have the tools to challenge but the former Arsenal man is wary of getting carried away.
He said: “I think we’re capable of promotion if we keep doing what we’re doing.
“If we keep our heads down and take every game as it comes, then we’ve got a very good chance, but we can’t get ahead of ourselves.
“It’s only the start of the season and there’s a very long way to go.
“We’ve started pretty well but that’s all it is - a start.
“We have to keep that going and see where it takes us.
“As players we don’t want to talk about it too much but everyone knows where we want to go and what we want to achieve.
“The players who’ve came in have done brilliantly and we’ve got a good squad.
“Even the players who aren't involved, they’re all ready to come on and work hard, so we’re all pushing each other.
“We’ve got different personnel this season and more leaders, which helps.
“Last year George (Elokobi) was the main leader but we’ve got a lot more now.”
Dartford regained top spot after winning at Hemel Hempstead on Tuesday night, with Maidstone dropping from second to third.
It looks set to be the Stones’ toughest game so far as they bid to maintain their 100 per cent home record.
Hoyte said: “Dartford are doing really well and that’s going to be hard game but it’s one we’ve got to try and win.”
Hoyte had a hand in two of the goals as Maidstone beat Slough last weekend, including the cross for George Porter’s late winner.
He made a habit of setting up goals from right-back last season and is glad to be off and running this term.
“I said last year it was my goal to get as many assists as I can,” said Hoyte.
“I’ve got two at the minute, which is a good start.
“As soon as Justin (Amaluzor) threw the ball to me at the end, there was only one decision to make, to cross it, and George was in a great position.
"It’s good to get back to how I was last year and try to get as many assists as I can.”
