More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Neil Cugley was left disappointed with Folkestone’s performance - despite his team progressing in the FA Trophy on Saturday.
Efforts from Kieron McCann, his first this season, and hitman David Smith proved to be enough for the Isthmian Premier high-fliers who won 2-1 against Faversham whose goal in the first-round Kent derby tie came courtesy of Eddie Allsopp's free-kick.
The result saw Cugley’s men return to winning ways against their Isthmian South East opponents after their unbeaten start to the season ended on Monday as they lost 5-0 at Carshalton.
However, Cugley said: “I was pleased with the result. But we haven’t played very well for the last few games - or anywhere near where we want to be - and it might have been entertaining for people to watch the game.
“But as a manager, I didn’t really enjoy it because I didn’t think we passed the ball anywhere near enough.
“Over the 90 minutes, I was a bit disappointed in us really.”
Folkestone did nevertheless earn £3,000 in prize money, as well as a spot in round two, with the win.
“You try and raise £3,000! Along with half the gate, it’s a good earner for the club,” admitted Cugley, whose side are fourth in Isthmian Premier.
“Expectations on players are higher now. It’s maybe as high as it’s been since I have been here because we are getting the crowds, they are coming to watch you and they want to watch you win. Hopefully they (the players) can be part of that.”
Cugley’s men return to league action on Tuesday night at Wingate & Finchley, with the Folkestone manager hoping to have signed a wide player who he has put in a seven-day approach for, in time for the game.
But versatile midfielder Jordan Wright, who initially was expected to be back against Faversham, is now expected to remain sidelined until next weekend through injury.
The FA Trophy second-round draw, meanwhile, will take place on Monday.
National League South sides, including Kent rivals Dartford, Ebbsfleet, Maidstone and Tonbridge, will enter the competition at this stage.
Cugley, though, says he doesn’t mind who they are drawn against - as long as it’s a home tie for Invicta who won't be due back at Cheriton Road until December 11 if they get an away tie.
He said: “We want just anybody at home - because we just seem to be forever driving around!
“We don’t have any home games coming up. We just want a home draw - against anybody, we don’t care who.
“Anybody from anywhere. Just bring them on and we will give it a go.”
