The FA Trophy returns this weekend, as Yeovil Town play host to National League South side Maidstone United in the third round.
FORM…
YEOVIL TOWN
The Glovers have turned around their form to go unbeaten in three. Out of those three matches, the last two have been convincing wins under new manager Billy Rowley. Another aspect of those wins has been the fact Yeovil have two goals in either game, a feat they had only done on five other occasions this season.
Last weekend, the Glovers won 0-2 away from home at Hartlepool United. After the long trip it could’ve been expected that the team may not have turned up, especially on form ahead of the managerial change. However, striker Aaron Jarvis netted his second goal of the season, to open the scoring. Star man Luke McCormick also popped up to get his third goal in two games.
It’s fair to say Rowley has turned a squad low on confidence around, and now with FA Trophy here, a cup run is on the list of things he wants.
MAIDSTONE UNITED
The Kent side have been in ok form over their last five fixtures, with three wins and two losses. Similar to their opponents on Saturday, they’ve won their last two games, a 2-0 win against Darren Way’s Bath City and a 1-0 victory over Salisbury. George Elokobi‘s side currently sit in eighth in the National League South.
The Stones played in the previous round of the competition against Torquay United. That day they ran out 2-0 winners at Plainmoor thanks to goals from Dijon Golding and John Gilbert.
KEY PLAYERS…
YEOVIL TOWN – BRETT McGAVIN
It’s no coincidence that since McGavin has returned to the squad from injury that there has been an up tick in form. In fact, the Glovers have only won one game this season that the midfielder hasn’t appeared in. The 25-year-old was on the bench for the 0-0 against Morecambe and has started both wins since.
McGavin quality is there to see as well. He brings a presence to the middle of the park with his build and has the passing ability to open up a game. The former Ipswich man has also formed a strong partnership with Luke McCormick which has been the foundation of Yeovil’s good performance’s this term. It’s clear to see with McGavin In the side, the Glovers look a lot stronger than without.
Pic Gary Brown
MAIDSTONE UNITED – JOHN GILBERT
Gilbert joined the Stones at the start of the season and has had an instant impact. The midfielder has featured in every game bar one this season, when he was not in the squad against Salisbury. A key feature for a central midfielder is his ability to be reliable, whether that be with his performances or through the ability to play most games, and Gilbert is that.
Not only is he reliable, the 25-year-old is Maidstone’s top score this season with six goals and also has two assists to his name. This dovetails nicely with his midfield partner, Anthony Papadopoulos who has six assists and two goals.
The game will defiantly see a midfield battle.
THE GAFFER…
George Elokobi is the visiting manager this weekend, with the former Premier League player taking charge of his 132nd game at Maidstone.
The Cameroonian has only managed Maidstone United having taken the job in 2023 initially on an interim basis. The 39-year-olds biggest achievement to date in management will be taking The Stones to the Fifth Round of FA Cup in 2024. This was the first time Maidstone had made the Fifth Round and also the first time since 1977 a team outside the top five leagues had gotten that far.
As player, Elokobi played as a centre-back for Wolves, Nottingham Forest and Bristol City to name a few, accumulating 361 appearances. He also one of only a few players to score in the Premier League, Championship, League’s One and Two as well as the National League.
LAST TIME WE MET…
The two teams last met in 2024 in the National League South. That game was at the Gallagher Stadium, with the Stones winning 2-1. That day Muhammad Faal opening the scoring, before Matt Rush doubled the lead. A late Dylan Morgan goal was a mere consolation for the Somerset side.
When they last played at Huish Park, the pair drew 1-1. Levi Amantchi opened the scoring that day for Maidstone, before Rhys Murphy equalised late on.
DON’T I KNOW YOU…
There are no ex-Glovers in the squad after Teo Kurtaran was released in the week. Midfielder Kurtaran may not be a well-known name with fans as he was a trialist in pre-season.
THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE…
Lewis Sandoe takes charge of the fixture, and as usual read Ben’s full article here.