Match Report: MUFC Women 3-2 Tonbridge

The Stones couldn’t have asked for a better start, after just 23 seconds they were already ahead. A rapid burst down the wing from Culpitt saw her drive a low, dangerous ball across the face of goal, where Rowsell arrived perfectly to slot home and give Maidstone a dream opening.

Tonbridge responded well to the early setback and gradually worked their way back into the game. Their persistence paid off in the 23rd minute when Cresswell was on hand at the back post to tap in and bring the visitors level at 1-1.

Maidstone, however, were not to be denied for long. Just nine minutes later, they restored their lead with a moment of quality. Another delivery from Culpitt caused problems, finding Manktelow, who showed great composure to turn and delicately dink the ball over the advancing goalkeeper, an excellent finish to make it 2-1.

The second half saw Tonbridge once again fight back. In the 57th minute, Mayhew found space and calmly slotted home to level the match for a second time, setting up a tense final half hour.

But Maidstone had the final say and it came in style. In the 69th minute, Manktelow stepped up to take a free kick. Her effort took a deflection off the wall, creating a wicked bounce that completely wrong-footed the goalkeeper and found the back of the net to make it 3-2. It was a decisive moment and proved to be the winning goal.

Despite late pressure from Tonbridge, Maidstone held firm to see out the game and claim all three points. A standout performance from Manktelow ensured a well-earned victory for the Stones, who will look to carry this momentum into their next fixture at Long Lane in two weeks’ time.

Full Time: Maidstone United Women 3–2 Tonbridge Angels Women.