After the drama of Boreham Wood vs Dorking last night, the final National League South quarter final takes place on Wednesday evening as Worthing host Maidstone. We have our match preview and betting predictions.
Worthing were one of the six teams still in title contention going into the last game sat in fourth. A 1-5 win at Enfield Town was not enough as they had to settle for another playoff campaign - a third in three years. The Rebels were sat atop of the table heading into the busy Easter Weekend, before a 1-1 draw at Eastbourne Borough and at home to Dorking Wanderers.
Chris Agutter would be left ruing these results, with Aaron Racine's ill discipline costing them at Eastbourne and a glaring mistake from Lucas Covolan handing Dorking an equaliser just after full time. Still, the the 42-year-old will be confident in his sides ability to navigate a tricky looking playoff run.
Only Boreham Wood and Dorking Wanderers scored more goals than Worthing during the season, so Agutter can take confidence from his sides attacking endeavours. They also took 48 points from 23 home games this season, losing just three times in front of their fans.
The injury to Danny Cashman in the early stages of the draw with Dorking has the potential to detail their playoff campaign, but it also provides a way into the team for Odei Martin Sorondo. The silky Spaniard combines technical prowess with dogged determination and is the perfect midfield partner for Glen Rea and Jack Spong - a midfield that should see Worthing win the game.
Maidstone are the only side in the playoffs who knew their fate going into the final day. A poor run of form had seen the Stones drop out of title contention. George Elokobi's side limped over the line into the top seven and must travel to Woodside Road for the second successive playoff campaign after losing in the semi-finals last year.
Away from home, The Stones have taken 39 points from 23, including winning 0-2 here in October. Maidstone seem to raise their game against the better teams, taking 19 points in the 12 games against the others in the top seven - a statistic Elokobi can take solace in.
With just 38 goals conceded, Maidstone boast the best defensive record in the league while also conceding just 17 and losing four times on their travels. They excel at keeping it tight and will look to frustrate The Rebels in front of a sell out crowd.
For a second year running, George Fowler won the supporters player of the year. The 27-year-old will need to excel at the heart of the defence if his side are to get a result.
Prediction: Worthing 2-1 Maidstone
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