Hakan Hayrettin declared Maidstone worthy winners after their 3-2 success over Maidenhead.

Victory sent the Stones four points clear of the National League relegation places.

They've taken seven points from the last nine on offer and it's only one defeat in six for Hayrettin's men.

Dominic Odusanya and a Regan Booty penalty saw the Stones lead 2-0 after a dominant start.

Charlee Adams' free-kick brought Maidenhead back into the game but Christie Pattisson restored the two-goal cushion straight after the break.

Reece Smith scored an injury-time second for the visitors but it was a job well done by the Stones.

"I think we were in control for the first 30 minutes," said manager Hayrettin.

"We took our foot off the pedal in the last 15 of the first half but then we came out second half and got the goal and we pushed again and we were in control, so I thought we were worthy winners today."

Maidenhead, enjoying a sixth successive season in the National League, beat Eastleigh last weekend.

They were too physical for a Spitfires outfit who beat the Stones 5-2 a few weeks ago but Hayrettin's side stood up to them and got their rewards.

"I listened to (manager) Lee Bradbury’s comments at Eastleigh and he said they were beaten up by men," added Hayrettin.

"They’re a team of men and I think we showed good character, we played some good football at times and maybe we could have had a couple more but I’m overly proud of them because the last month has been really good for us.

• Report: Maidstone 3-2 Maidenhead

"We’ve only lost one in six. Everyone’s working really hard.

"We dug deep against a very experienced team and against a very experienced manager and I’m pleased that we got the three points. We’re slowly but surely digging in.

"We had a plan. The plan worked. I’m not happy with the last goal - we’ll have a look at that - but really it was only 15 minutes of the game where I think they were on top in the first half.

"Apart from that, we were good. In possession and out possession, everybody worked hard.

"It’s a big three points for the football club and I’m happy for everyone concerned."

The one downside for Maidstone was an early injury to centre-back Joe Ellul.

Back in the side after recovering from an infected toe, Hayrettin revealed it was a tight calf that forced him off in just the 11th minute.

"He didn't want to pull it completely," said the Stones boss. "I think it was about to go. He made the right decision for him and the team.

"I think Joe started really well. He's a good football player. He's got a lot of assets to what he does. We need to get the best out of him."

It was a third defensive injury of the week for Maidstone, with skipper Gavin Hoyte out for two to three months with his shoulder and Jacob Mensah also sidelined.