By Sam Hartley

Maidstone United were crowned back-to-back National League Under-19 Cup champions after an early Ashton Mitford goal defeated Chester on Wednesday.

The showpiece final unfolded at the world-class St George’s Park, under the watchful eye of England manager Thomas Tuchel, a brilliant experience for two highly skilled young teams.

Maidstone took the lead in the seventh minute when Tyler Hatton received the ball out on the left-hand side. His low cross was delivered into the box and deflected towards goal by Mitford.

The Stones continued piling on the pressure. They were able to keep possession well and were able to play solid passes across the pitch, keeping the ball much better than their opponents.

However, despite the possession, Chester goalkeeper Billy Davies did well to block and save a number of key chances.

This gave Chester momentum to run forward, a shot from Atkinson in the 19th minute was bound to go in with the keeper slightly out of position. However, an incredible effort from Maidstone defender Alfee Wincott to get back and provide an acrobatic clearance ensured his team maintained the lead.

Chester came out for the second half fighting. Ryan Atkinson picked up a loose ball in the middle of the pitch, ran down the right, and delivered the ball into the box, but his shot was well-saved by Maidstone keeper Chris Swift.

A scrappy second half occurred, with Maidstone looking to maintain possession and hold on to the win, with Chester keen to get the ball forward and equalise.

Both goalkeepers were praised for their efforts with Swift particularly dominant for the Stones. He made a brilliant save late on when a right-wing cross caused a scramble in the box and he made a solid close-range save.

Goalscorer Mitford reflected: “To come and win this trophy again, it feels so good.”