We're hoping for a good crowd against Maidstone United, says Bearsted boss Tony Cornwell

BEARSTED manager Tony Cornwell says he is relishing facing his former club Maidstone United on Saturday.


The Bears welcome The Stones to Honey Lane in what will be a lucrative opening pre-season friendly for the Kent Invicta League club.

It will be Maidstone United’s last game in exile, as they make an emotional return to the County Town the following weekend when Brighton & Hove Albion open The Gallagher Stadium in front of a SOLD-OUT crowd.

Cornwell said: “We’re hoping for a good crowd and we’ll do our best to make it difficult for what looks to be a very strong Maidstone United squad this year.”

Reflecting on pre-season training, Cornwell said: “Early stages for us, we’ve had three sessions and a trial day.

“We’ve had lots of interest. Most of last year’s lads have returned, plus a number of new arrivals, some from playing with me during my Maidstone United youth and reserve days.”

He added: “We’ll try and put out a strong squad against The Stones, probably seventeen players.”

The Bearsted boss declined to unveil his summer signings, saying, “Prefer not to name new signings just yet, but three have Ryman South and or Kent League experience.

Bearsted have confirmed two other home friendlies, against Kent League side Tunbridge Wells (14 July) and Kent County League outfit Fleet Leisure (4 August).

Cornwell is awaiting confirmation on two warm-up matches away from home.

Visit Bearsted’s website: www.bearstedfc.co.uk

Bearsted  v  Maidstone United
Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday 7^th July 2012
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Otham Sports Club, Honey Lane, Otham, Maidstone, Kent ME15 8RG