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Maidstone United will face Stevenage in the FA Cup third round after Steve Evans’ League 1 side beat Port Vale on penalties

07:02, 13 December 2023

Maidstone will meet Stevenage in the FA Cup third round - sparking great memories for Stones fans.

League 1 high-fliers Boro, managed by ex-Gills boss Steve Evans, secured a January 6 meeting at the Gallagher after beating Port Vale 4-3 on penalties following a 3-3 draw in last night’s second-round replay.

Frannie Collin celebrates after scoring against Stevenage in 2014. Picture: Martin Apps
Frannie Collin celebrates after scoring against Stevenage in 2014. Picture: Martin Apps

It means a repeat of the clubs’ 2014 first-round meeting when United pulled off a stunning upset.

The sides, then in League 2 and the Isthmian Premier, drew 0-0 at Broadhall Way, setting up a return at the Gallagher.

The BT Sport cameras were in town as Frannie Collin scored twice, including an 87th-minute winner from Ben Greenhalgh’s cross, to send Jay Saunders’ side through to round two.

Full-time scenes at the Gallagher Stadium after Maidstone's 2014 victory over Stevenage. Picture: Martin Apps
Full-time scenes at the Gallagher Stadium after Maidstone's 2014 victory over Stevenage. Picture: Martin Apps

The dramatic 2-1 victory remains arguably the greatest night at the Gallagher, with the part-timers playing in the first round for the first time since reforming in 1992.

It has a genuine rival now, though, after George Elokobi’s men produced a brilliant comeback victory against League 2 Barrow earlier this month.

Bivesh Gurung scored the goal of the round as the Stones reached round three for the first time since 1988 courtesy of another 2-1 win.

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