Jay Saunders felt the relief around the Gallagher after Maidstone’s first home victory in seven games.

The place erupted as substitute Yemi Odubade met Jamar Loza’s superb cross in the 89th minute to give Stones a 2-1 win over Macclesfield.

They remain 16th in the National League but are now nine points clear of the bottom four after Saturday’s success.

Manager Saunders said: “We needed that, at home especially.

“I thought we looked nervous at times, especially the opening, and I thought the whole ground was a little bit tense really.

“When the second goal went in, the relief, the noise and everything, I think everyone was delighted.

“Was it the perfect performance? No, but sometimes you just need that break and luckily we got it.”

Saunders had seen the introduction of Jack Paxman lift Maidstone and he went for the throat by turning to Odubade - on the bench for the second game running - with five minutes left.

The Stones boss added: “I must admit, before we made the subs I was kind of thinking do you stick or twist?

“I couldn’t really see them scoring, I couldn’t really see us scoring, and I kind of felt it was there to nick so we made the changes.

“All the subs made an impact but especially Pax and Yemi with the finish.

“At that time you could see they were tiring at the back and he’s got that pace.

“He’s still got a lot to do, Yem, and he’s finished it really well. I’m delighted for him.

“Obviously it’s never nice coming out the team but the best thing for a centre-forward, and I think the only way you can answer being dropped, is when you get your chances is to take them.”

Read the match report from Maidstone's 2-1 win over Macclesfield