By Andrew Gidley

Ryan Philpott is emerging as a young defender with an eye for goal.

The 18-year-old full-back netted in Folkestone’s 1-1 Ryman League, Division 1 South draw at Walton & Hersham on Tuesday night and is one of three newcomers to the Cheriton Road squad impressing boss Neil Cugley (pictured).

Philpott fired Invicta in front after 16 minutes at Stompond Lane – their first game back after a
10-day break – before Gary Frewen earned the Surrey side a point 16 minutes from time, when the visitors were reduced to 10 men.

Cugley said: "Ryan has done brilliantly for us. He was in the youth team last year and we invited him to train with the first team pre-season and the injuries have given him his chance."

Cugley has been delighted with the progress of both Philpott and wide player Nat Blanks, as well as striker Richard Atkins. He said: "Nat is an energetic player who gets around the pitch well, while Richard has done well and worked hard since coming back after a spell at Canterbury City.

"He and Kingy are forming a good partnership."

Cugley was grateful for the break to ease several injury worries and is happy to report a clean bill of health.

Invicta travel to Horsham on Saturday – the second of three successive away games.