Stones Boss Hakan Happy To Play The Waiting Game

But he says his side are so more together than before - and that gives them a fighting chance of success.

The Stones have started the Vanarama National League South season strongly, ten points from four games representing the club’s best opening month return for years.

Hayrettin cut a frustrated figure after Hampton & Richmond bit back to snatch a point after they stormed ahead with 15 minutes to go on Bank Holiday Monday.

His team were the better side but their perfect start is over.

But he explained why it is still a little early to know if his squad are well placed to put in a genuine challenge.

The Gallagher Stadium boss said: “A month ago if someone would have told me we would have been unbeaten in four I would take that.

"We have a really good unity. In terms of personality and character, we’re so much better.

“I decided to make some changes in the summer. I brought players in who I have a lot of respect for and so far, so good. We’ve got a healthy squad and we’re in a good place

“We’ve got to keep our heads down and I think we’ll do OK this season. We’re training three days a week, as a manager you want to give yourself the best chance.

“We’ll know after eight or nine games what’s possible. We’ve got more personality than we had last year and the we’ve got a really good spirit.

“Sometimes a real togetherness can get you a certain amount of points and I’m pleased with what I’ve seen so far.”

He would have been even happier if Maidstone went into Saturday’s match at in-form Oxford City with four straight wins.

“It’s probably two points dropped,” he accepted.

“If you to a goal up and you have dominated then you’re disappointed if you don’t take the points home.

“But it’s been a good start, take nothing away from Hampton and take nothing away from our boys.”

PHOTO BY THOM LANG