SOUTHAMPTON'S promotion rivals Ipswich Town have been knocked out of the FA Cup by National League South Maidstone United.

George Elokobi's side secured a 2-1 win at Portman Road, handing Ipswich their first home defeat since their 3-1 loss to Fulham on November 1.

The Tractor Boys bossed the game as they racked up 38 shots on goal, but the semi-professional Stones showed their clinical edge.

Lamar Reynolds and Sam Corne scored Maidstone's only two shots to cause an FA Cup upset, while Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Cavagnari pulled off 12 saves.

Ipswich's shock elimination could serve as a benefit to their promotion hopes as it will allow them to invest 100 per cent of their attention to the league campaign.

The Tractor Boys currently sit just one point ahead of Southampton after 28 Championship games.

Russell Martin's side are set to face Ipswich on Monday, April 1, in what could be a key game in the promotion run-in.

Saints are in FA Cup fourth round action on Sunday when they face fellow Championship side Watford at Vicarage Road.

The fifth round is scheduled to take during the week commencing Monday, February 26 - potentially adding a seventh game to an already packed February schedule.