League chairman sends message of support

Ryman League Chairman and President Alan Turvey has wished Maidstone United the best of luck in the FA Cup's Second Round at Wrexham on Saturday.

In a message to the Kent club's fans, players and officials on Friday as they headed to north Wales ahead of taking on the Conference Premier club, the Isthmian's chairman told them that everyone connected with the Ryman League from its directors and officers to the 71 other member clubs would be rooting for them.

After drawing 0-0 in Stevenage in the FA Cup First Round, Jay Saunders' side set up this weekend's tie by beating the League Two club 2-1 at the Gallagher Stadium with millions around the world watching November's televised replay live on BT Sport.

The club, who had not reached the second-round stage since they re-formed in 1992, banked a £33,750 television fee and further £18,000 in FA prize money for that win.

Another over Wrexham will see the Stones collect a further £27,000 in prize money and a place in the FA Cup's Third Round together with the prospect of a dream draw against Manchester United and a possible reunion with Chris Smalling, the defender they nurtured before his move to the Premier League giants.

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