FA Cup fever has descended on Maidstone ahead of Sunday’s clash at Stevenage.

A travelling army of almost 1,400 supporters will roar the Stones on at Broadhall Way when they stride out for their first appearance in the FA Cup first round since 1992.

There are 55 league places separating Stevenage’s League 2 professionals and the part-timers of Maidstone, who will make national headlines if they can pull off a giantkilling.

The town is alive with cup chatter and Stones manager Jay Saunders knows the huge away support will inspire his players.

Saunders said: "Most League clubs don’t take that many away from home. Everyone’s behind the lads.

"Even when I’m doing the school run with the kids, everyone’s talking about it. Twitter’s been going mad and it’s nice for the players.

"It’s a one-off game and it’s great publicity for the club. It raises the profile and for the players, there’s nothing better than being involved in a big game against a League club.

"We’re going to enjoy the day but there’s no reason why we can’t go there and have a go at them.

"I’ve been there myself. We (Margate) played Leyton Orient, we drew away and then beat them at home.

"Every year there’s an upset in the Cup and I don’t see why it can’t be us."

Read the full story in the Kent Messenger.