Maidstone United delay Worthing’s title hopes in dramatic win

Maidstone United: T. Bramble (32'), H. Kargbo (70')

Worthing: W. Makowski (13')

Maidstone United kept their season alive and threw the title race wide open after a hard-fought 2–1 win over Worthing at the Gallagher Stadium.

Going into the game, Worthing knew a win would put them on the brink of the title. Instead, they were met with a Maidstone side that had its own agenda - fight for the playoffs and give their outgoing manager a proper send-off.

The visitors started sharply and took the lead early on. A well-worked move cut through Maidstone’s defence, and a composed finish gave Worthing the advantage. At that point, it looked like they might take control of the afternoon.0

But Maidstone didn’t panic. They stayed in the game, kept pushing, and began to create chances of their own.

The equaliser came from a set-piece - and it was exactly what the home side needed. A delivery into the box caused problems, and the ball eventually fell kindly for a close-range finish to bring things level.

There was also a strong shout for a penalty just before half-time when Maidstone felt they were pulled down in the box, but nothing was given. On another day, that decision could have changed the game earlier.

The second half had a bit of everything. Worthing pushed hard and came close more than once, but Maidstone’s goalkeeper stepped up with a couple of crucial saves to keep things level.

Then came the key moment. A free-kick from the edge of the box took a deflection on its way in, wrong-footing the keeper and giving Maidstone the lead.

From there, it turned into a proper battle. Worthing threw everything forward, creating clear chances, but couldn’t find a way past a determined defence and an in-form keeper.

This wasn’t just a win - it changed the shape of the league. Worthing now have to wait until the final day to see if they can secure the title, with other teams still in the mix.

For Maidstone United, it keeps the playoff dream alive heading into the last match of the season. They’ll need results to go their way, but at least they’ve given themselves a chance.

There was also an emotional edge to the day, with it marking the end of an era on the touchline. The performance felt like a proper response from the players - not just tactically solid, but full of effort and intent.