Maidstone boss Jay Saunders finds it difficult to criticise a team who are just a point behind leaders Kingstonian.

Saunders was angered by the defending in the 4-1 defeat at Thamesmead on Tuesday and told the players what he thought of the performance. But he didn’t go overboard given Stones are third in the Ryman League, Premier Division.

Saunders, whose side play Hampton & Richmond at the Gallagher Stadium on Saturday, said: “You’ve got to let them know how you’re feeling, that the goals we gave away were unacceptable.

“But how can you slaughter players when we’re a point off top spot? It’s our first season in the league and we’ve had loads of injuries. It’s a fine line. You don’t want to let them have it too much because you can end up losing players.

“We’ve all got to look at things, regardless of this sticky patch and appreciate what a strong position we’re in. The majority of managers in this league would love to be where we are."

Saunders must decide who to use on the right wing against Hampton & Richmond, with Rory Hill sidelined by appendicitis. Orlando Smith (knee) is still struggling, so Stones will choose between Alex Brown and Charley Robertson.

Midfielder Nathan Campbell could return from a groin problem as United defend their unbeaten home record but Steve Watt (calf) is still out.