Maidstone’s unusual pre-match routine picked up by ITV cameras live on TV ahead of historic FA Cup clash

MAIDSTONE were seen taking part in an unusual pre-match routine before their FA Cup fifth round clash.

The National League South side were preparing to take on promotion-chasing Championship outfit Coventry.

ITV4

Maidstone did a lap of honour before their FA Cup clash with Coventry[/caption]

ITV4

Players and staff joined in the gesture usually reserved for after a game[/caption]

ITV4

Around 5,000 Stones fans are estimated to have travelled to the game[/caption]

And before kick off, Maidstone players and coaching staff were captured on ITV cameras doing a lap of honour around the Coventry Building Society Arena.

The gesture is normally reserved for after a game.

Regardless, the Stones got a loud ovation from their travelling support during the lap as they went past.

An estimated 5,000 fans were said to be in the Maidstone end for the Monday evening clash.

And fans on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, were also in a supportive mood for the FA Cup underdogs.

One fan said: “Unfortunately I think they get stuffed tonight but well done them on enjoying it to the fullest.”

A second said: “Cheering for @maidstoneunited tonight.”

While a third said: “C’mon the Stones.”

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Maidstone captured the imagination of football fans around the globe, with Cameroon World Cup icon Roger Milla sending a message of support for compatriot and Stones boss George Elokobi.

The former Wolves star, 38, told SunSport: “It was to congratulate me. This is what the magic of the FA Cup does. 

“He told me he had been watching us and to continue working hard.

“He knows I’ve been doing well for Cameroon and flying the flag high. He wants to wish us well for the next round of the FA Cup.

“And he also wanted to wish me good health and to keep working hard, keep developing and hopefully one day I’ll be able to help the nation.”

But while the routine won the Stones plenty of fans, it failed to knock Coventry out of their stride as the Championship side progressed to the FA Cup quarter-final with a 5-0 win.