Folkestone Invicta boss Neil Cugley allows trialists to depart
Published: 00:00, 13 July 2017
Updated: 08:47, 13 July 2017
Folkestone boss Neil Cugley has already begun to trim his new-look Invicta squad despite having played just once in pre-season.
Cugley’s side ran rivals Hythe ragged in the Dave Williams Memorial Game at the Fullicks Stadium on Sunday afternoon, winning 4-1 in a match in which the hosts fielded 18 players.
Cugley said: “I’ve let a couple go already after the game. They were not better than what I have got. It’s not just how you look in training but it’s what you do in a game situation, too. This is what pre-season is all about.
“I’m happy with my forward four and my midfield looks good with plenty of options. I’m still looking for at least one more to finish off the defence.
“More and more players will be becoming available as they are released from other teams. There’s no point rushing.”
One trialist who did impress was Sylvan Kotisi at full-back and he was handed another chance to impress against Championship Millwall on Tuesday night in a game Invicta drew 2-2, having led twice through Ian Draycott's free-kick and a second goal in as many appearances from new-boy Kieron McCann.
Reflecting on the day, and particularly the occasion as tribute to his long-time friend Williams, whose wife Sue and family were guests of honour, Cugley said: “It was a brilliant day and could not have gone better.
“I’ll admit I had to fight to hold myself together when the crowd starting singing out Willo’s name – and I don’t think I was the only one.”
After a free Saturday, Invicta are next in action at Herne Bay on Wednesday, July 19 (7.45pm).
Invicta have been handed a testing trip to Leiston in the first round qualifying of the FA Trophy on October 28.
The fixtures for the new Bostik Premier season are released on Thursday. See KentOnline for first news.
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Alex Hoad