FA Cup: Fans tell of pride despite despite fifth round exit
Fans of Maidstone United were left dreaming of cup glory after such an unforgettable match against a team that was far higher up the English football pyramid than they were.
Even though the Kent team lost 5-0 against Coventry City, their followers still had wonderful recollections of the game.
4,800 Maidstone supporters traveled to the CBS Arena, however they were outmatched by their opponents in the Championship.
Ellis Simms scored three goals, while Fabio Tavares scored two, shattering The Stones’ hopes of earning a record quarterfinal spot.
Fans expressed satisfaction with the “amazing” memories the squad had provided them despite the crushing defeat.
Kieran and Will were among them, and said: “We are immensely proud of the team.
“But once we were 3-0 down it was always going to be a tough hill to climb.”
Harry Bradford said: “After not even getting to the first round proper last season you’d take what we have had any day of the week.
“Coventry are an amazing team so to lose to them, there is no shame in that.”
Fans were still in the stadium for about 30 minutes after the game, savouring the atmosphere and serenading the team.
Also commiserating was Lorraine Humm, who runs disability football at the club.
“We’ve made history by being here. Okay, we didn’t get the win but everyone is happy and the atmosphere was amazing.”
She said the cup run had increased the profile of the club, with more people wanting to get involved.
“We have had 30 more players join since the Ipswich game and we have more people wanting to join now,” she said.
“The cup run has definitely put the team on the map.”
Another fan added: “It is incredible the level they have played at.”
Maidstone’s next league game is on Saturday 2 March, away at Kent rivals Dover Athletic.
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