Maidenhead United secured a vital three points in a tense National League encounter at York Road, edging out bottom-of-the-table Ebbsfleet United 2-1. The match, punctuated by bursts of goalmouth action and a flurry of late bookings, saw the Magpies hold on for a hard-fought victory.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides cautiously probing for an opening. Clear-cut chances were at a premium as the defences largely held firm. Just as the half looked to be ending goalless, Maidenhead broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. A well-worked move culminated in Tristan Abrahams finding the back of the net, sending the home supporters into raptures and giving the Magpies a crucial 1-0 lead at the break.
The second half saw the tempo increase significantly. Maidenhead doubled their advantage in the 56th minute when Shawn McCoulsky coolly dispatched a penalty, putting the home side firmly in control. Ebbsfleet responded with a half-time substitution, introducing Gregory Cundle, who injected much-needed energy into their attack.
The closing stages proved to be a frantic affair. Ebbsfleet’s increasing pressure finally paid off in the 92nd minute when Josh Wright, assisted by Cundle, grabbed a consolation goal. Despite a late surge and a nail-biting finish, Ebbsfleet were unable to find an equaliser. The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 victory for Maidenhead, sparking celebrations amongst the home fans. The intensity of the final stages was reflected in a flurry of yellow cards, with Craig Tanner, Mustapha Olagunju, and Tom Dallison-Lisbon booked for Ebbsfleet, and Miles Welch-Hayes, Craig Ross, and Sam Barratt receiving cautions for Maidenhead.
The win sees Maidenhead climb to 22nd in the National League table with 8 points, while Ebbsfleet remain rooted to the bottom in 24th place with 5 points. The two sides have met twice in recent seasons, with Ebbsfleet winning one and drawing the other.
