Stones boss Jay Saunders in negotiations with goalkeeper Tim Roberts

MAIDSTONE UNITED player-manager Jay Saunders says he is taking a settled side to face local-rivals Tonbridge Angels tomorrow, writes Stephen McCartney.


The Stones are preparing for life in Ryman League Division One South after their relegation last season, whilst Tommy Warrilow’s side kick-off their inaugural Blue Square Bet South campaign at Maidenhead United on 13 August.

Saunders said on the eve of the Longmead Stadium clash that former Crystal Palace youngster, full-back Karl Knight has agreed terms for the season and that former Croydon and Erith Town goalkeeper, Tim Roberts, is in his thoughts to be Charlie Mitten’s understudy.

When asked about his side’s pre-season, Saunders said: “It’s gone pretty well to be honest.  We’ve now whittled it down, we’ve got rid of most of the trialists, we’ve kept a couple on.  I’ve been pleased with it overall.

“Karl Knight, he’ll be staying for the season and I’m in negotiations with Tim Roberts, the goalkeeper at the moment.  I’m trying to agree something with him at the moment.

“Karl Knight was at Crystal Palace last season, he’s quite a small lad but a good little player.  I’m pleased with them two.

“Tim, he’s just to get a bit of competition in for Charlie Mitten really, to be honest.  I’d rather have another keeper there than not, than rush to get someone in on loan and it gives Charlie that bit of competition.”

Looking ahead to the clash at Tonbridge Angels, who clinched promotion from the Ryman Premier League after exciting home play-off wins over Harrow Borough and Lowestoft Town at the end of last season, Saunders said: “It will be a tough game.  I’m sure Tom will put out his strongest side as they start their season next Saturday and we’ll have a strong side out.

“It will be a good game.  They done really well last year, I’m pleased for Tom.  He’s a top bloke.  He’s always there when I need any help and if I need some players he’s there to talk to.  I’ve known him a long time and I’m looking forward to it.

“It will definitely be our toughest test and it gives us a good idea where we’re at.”

The Stones should be contesting for major league honours this season and Saunders said he will pluck players from the reserve side when called the need arises.

He said: “My squad will be about 16-17, we’ve got the reserves being run right now and there’s a couple of lads pushing through.  We’ve got a young lad who played the other night, Lewis Mingle, who done well so that’s promising.  If need be we can call up the young lads from the reserves.”

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Tonbridge Angels  v  Maidstone United
Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday 6^th August 2011
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Longmead Stadium, Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge, Kent TN10 3JW