BY MARK DOIG
Welling United’s 2025 did not start well as they were beaten at Maidstone United on New Year’s Day.
Coming into the game, Maidstone were in third place in the National League South, having won their previous five league matches, as part of a 16-match unbeaten run in the league. As a result, Welling manager Rod Stringer went with a conservative line-up designed to contain the hosts’ direct style.
Ricardo Di Trolio came in for his second Welling debut having signed on loan from Coventry City one day earlier.
Both goalkeepers made comfortable saves in the early exchanges. Rhys Lovett collected a Sol Wanjau-Smith backheel then Maidstone stopper Alexis Andre Jr held a header from Josh Redfearn.
FOOTBALL (WELLING AWAY)
Charlie Seaman and Ben Brookes caused both Welling centre-backs, Alex Lankshear and Dave Winfield, to make last-gasp clearances from dangerous crosses before in form Stones striker Aaron Blair fired over after getting on the end of a Seaman through ball.
Soon after, Blair had another opportunity and drew an excellent block from Lovett before firing the follow up into the side netting.
Gene Kennedy had a 25-yard free-kick held by Andre Jr before Blair tricked his way through before shooting beyond the far post.
After the half-time break, the rain got heavier making the playing surface slipperier but Welling continued to defend a series of crosses well, reducing the hosts to half chances.
Lovett did well to get down and push away a Seaman effort from out wide before making another fine save from George Fowler’s powerful drive.
Edginess started creeping into the Maidstone supporters but their fears were allayed when their team went ahead with just over 20 minutes remaining. Brookes picked out Temi Eweka with a corner. Although his header was saved brilliantly by Lovett, it came out to Blair, who headed home from close range.
FOOTBALL (WELLING AWAY)
Stringer, the Welling manager, made a double substitution and changed his team’s shape in an effort to get back into the game but the Maidstone defence held firm and they almost doubled their lead when Wanjau-Smith fired just over with five minutes remaining.
There were no further opportunities for either side and the good contingent of away supporters applauded the Wings off the pitch for their hard work that was ultimately unrewarded.
As Welling have no game on Saturday, Stringer and his assistant, Kevin Watson, have more time to prepare for the Wings’ important home game against Weymouth on Tuesday evening.
PICTURES: DAVE BUDDEN