Ebbsfleet manager Daryl McMahon reacts to 2-1 win at Maidenhead
Published: 09:14, 23 April 2017
Ebbsfleet boss Daryl McMahon has revealed he used Maidenhead's programme as part of his team talk on Saturday.
The National League South leaders needed only a point against the Fleet to seal the title at York Road.
But McMahon's men were driven on after a piece in the programme which said the Fleet "will hope to be joining us next season in the National League".
That presumption, plus the pre-match party atmosphere as Maidenhead were cheered on by around 3,000 home fans, was all the motivation that Ebbsfleet needed as they came from behind to win 2-1.
"It inspired us really," said McMahon. "There were a few things, one in the programme, before the game.
"I don't know who wrote it but 'we hope Ebbsfleet join us in the National League next year'. Little things like that I mentioned in my team talk, of course.
"I don't think we would have done that as a club - nothing is over yet.
"They still have to go and do a job and so do we, and whatever happens, happens.
"We came here and as soon as we walked in it felt like a bit of a party atmosphere for them.
"We're a good side and we reacted to that a little bit as well.
"You can't blame them (for planning the potential celebrations) as it is their last home game as well but you've seen my team stand up to it, we weren't intimidated by it and put in a fantastic performance."
Despite hitting the woodwork twice in the first half, Fleet were far from their best as they failed to keep possession for long spells.
But that all changed in the second half as they increased the tempo to their play and goals from Andy Drury and Dave Winfield led them to victory.
"What you saw from us was good composure," added McMahon. "I don't think we got caught up in the occasion.
"We played as we have been playing, you didn't see anyone being rash or making bad decisions. Everybody was focused on what they did.
"We didn't have to panic. We're a good team, I've been saying that all along. Both us and Maidenhead have got a ridiculous points tally. We're a very good side.
"It was a great goal by Drury and for me he is the best player in the league. He runs the game, when he is playing well, we play well.
"We managed the game really well (in the last 10 minutes), I was really impressed with that, it was excellent."
More by this author
Matthew Panting