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Compiled by Editor - [email protected]
Invicta Newslines INDEX for 2003/4
October 2003 News click here


Tuesday, September 30, 2003

FINAL FAC SCORE
Invicta (2) 3 - 0 (0) Hitchin
Attendance 428.
Folkestone Invicta set up an F. A. Cup showdown with Paul Parker's Welling United when they recorded an impressive 3-0 victory over Hitchin Town in Tuesday night's 2nd Qualifying Round replay in front of a 428 crowd at the Westbourne Stadium.

Striker Allan Tait scored twice after Anthony Hogg had opened the scoring to set up a 3rd Qualifying Round tie on Saturday October 11th.

At the other end, this was also Invicta's third consecutive clean sheet as former Hastings pair Tony Kessell (goalkeeper) and Adam Flanagan (centre half) again stood out.

FOLKESTONE INVICTA: Kessell, Everitt, Lindsey, Flanagan, Guest, Hogg, Chandler (Watkins 76 mins), Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar. Unused subs: Ayling, Larkin, Blackman, Egan.
HITCHIN TOWN: Robinson, Bone (Mills 45 mins), Rydeheard, Frater (Childs 66 mins), Ayres, Scott, Williams, Osborn, Dillon, Parker, Maynard. Unused subs: Burke, Evans, McElroy.

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report REPORT.


Monday, September 29, 2003

THE FA CUP - THIRD ROUND QUALIFYING DRAW
TIES TO BE PLAYED 11TH OCTOBER 2003
�5,000 TO EACH WINNING CLUB

Ashton United or Hyde United v Barrow
Bridlington Town or Farsley Celtic v Worksop Town or Kings Lynn
Redditch United or Shirebrook Town v Frickley Athletic or Shildon
Nuneaton Borough v Runcorn FC Halton
Ashington v Grantham Town
Gedling Town v Guisborough Town or Stalybridge Celtic Eastwood Town v Stocksbridge Park Steels
Newcastle Town v Ossett Albion
Marine v Dunston Federation Brewery or Fleetwood Town
Blyth Spartans v Halesowen Town
Bradford (Park Avenue) v Vauxhall Motors
Warrington Town v Whitby Town
Wakefield & Emley v Hinckley United
Droylsden or Burscough v Gainsborough Trinity
Buxton v Radcliffe Borough
Chorley v Lancaster City
Hucknall Town or Congleton Town v Bromsgrove Rovers
Kettering Town v St Margaretsbury
Hitchin Town or Folkestone Invicta v Slough Town or Welling United
Bromley v Thurrock
Histon v Newmarket Town
Hornchurch v Carshalton Athletic
Canvey Island v Dover Athletic Ford United v Heybridge Swifts or Worthing
Cambridge City v Lowestoft Town
Maidstone United v Sutton United or Bishop's Stortford
Hayes v Boreham Wood
East Thurrock United v AFC Sudbury
Leyton v Bedford Town
Grays Athletic v Hendon
Braintree Town v Eastbourne Borough or Chelmsford City
Crawley Town v Croydon Athletic
Basingstoke Town v Bracknell Town
Gloucester City v Chippenham Town
Thame United v Bath City
Oxford City v Cirencester Town
Havant & Waterlooville v Salisbury City or Westbury United
Newport IoW v Harrow Borough or Flackwell Heath
Newport County v Mangotsfield United
Weston Super Mare v Chesham United
Lymington & New Milton v Highworth Town
Paulton Rovers v Hampton & Richmond Borough


Saturday, September 27, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Hitchin Town (0) 0 - 0 (0) Folkestone Invicta
Replay Tuesday 7.45pm KO
Invicta all over Hitchin in the first half, should have won the game. Second half much more even.
Suspect the clubs quite pleased that we've got a home game to play at last, home games being about as rare as rocking horse manure.
Lets have a big crowd on Tuesday evening, I've saved you all a place.

INVICTA: Kessell, Everitt, Lindsey, Flanagan, Guest, Hogg (Ayling 70), Chandler, Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar. SNU: Blackman, Larkin, Watkins, Holdway. Att: 319
Replay Tuesday 7.45pm KO

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report SUNDAY onwards at REPORT.

OTHER RESULTS
FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round
Bognor Regis Town 0-4 Havant & Waterlooville, Boreham Wood 4-0 Burgess Hill Town, Bromley 3-0 Dartford, Dover Athletic v Maidenhead Utd (Sunday 28th Sep 03, 3pm), Eastbourne Borough 2-2 Chemlsford City, Harlow Town 0-4 Crawley Town, Hythe Town 0-4 Maidstone Utd, Newmarket Town 3-0 Fleet Town, Newport County 3-2 Weymouth, Newport IoW 2-1 Tiverton Town, Nuneaton Borough 1-0 Worcester City, Rothwell 0-1 Bedford Town, Salisbury City 1-1 Westbury Utd, Sittingbourne 1-2 East Thurrock, Slough Town 1-1 Welling Utd, Soham Town Rangers 0-2 Histon, Stafford Rangers 1-2 Grantham Town, Stamford 0-3 Kettering, Worksop 2-2 Kings Lynn.

Dr Martens Eastern Division
Burnham 0-2 Tonbridge Angels, Chatham Town 0-1 Banbury Utd, Corby Town 1-0 Bashley, Eastleigh 1-2 Ashford Town, Fisher Athletic 1-0 Erith & Belvedere.


Thursday, September 25, 2003

The Road to Cardiff via Hitchin

Invicta showed on Saturday and Tuesday that they are firing on all cylinders again. They're in the right mood to give Ryman Premier Hitchin a difficult time on Saturday as they both vie for a slot in the FAC 3rd qualifying round. Hitchins current form is not inspiring but form books go out the window with a competition like the FA Cup.

Neil Cugley is delighted that he has secured goalkeper Tony Kessells services for the season, "Tony came in as cover at the start of the season for holidaying Mo Munden and he's made the position his with some faultless displays." Mark Munday is beginning to show the fans why we were so keen to sign him and now with Anthony Hogg back on loan (from Gravesend) our midfield is looking very powerful.

The road to Cardiff is a long one but lets hope that we can keep the run going for a bit longer, we can always 'concentrate on the league' later ... much later.

Supporters Club coach details are on home page.

FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27TH 2003
FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round
Bognor Regis Town v Havant & Waterlooville, Boreham Wood v Burgess Hill Town, Bromley v Dartford, Dover Athletic v Maidenhead Utd (Sunday 28th Sep 03, 3pm), Eastbourne Borough v Chemlsford City, Harlow Town v Crawley Town, Hitchin v Folkestone Invicta, Hythe Town v Maidstone Utd, Newmarket Town v Fleet Town, Newport County v Weymouth, Newport IoW v Tiverton Town, Nuneaton Borough v Worcester City, Rothwell v Bedford Town, Salisbury City v Westbury Utd, Sittingbourne v East Thurrock, Slough Town v Welling Utd, Soham Town Rangers v Histon, Stafford Rangers v Grantham Town, Stamford v Kettering, Worksop v Kings Lynn.

Dr Martens Eastern Division
Burnham v Tonbridge Angels, Chatham Town v Banbury Utd, Corby Town v Bashley, Eastleigh v Ashford Town, Fisher Athletic v Erith & Belvedere.


Tuesday, September 23, 2003

MIDWEEK FINAL SCORE
Folkestone Invicta (0) 1-0 (0) Sittingbourne
From the opening minute Invictas strikeforce went at the Sitttingbourne defence and threatened a cricket score. Still at HT 0-0
Mark Munday opened his account with the only goal of the game in the 52nd minute (according to my watch!) FT 1-0
Sittingbourne fans owe a debt of gratitude to their keeper Kevin Fewell who managed to get something on the majority of shots fired at and around him. It was sparkling entertainment, where were all the fans?

INVICTA: Kessell, Everitt, Lindsey, Flanagan, Guest, Hogg, Chandler (Ayling 60), Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar. SNU: Holdway, Blackman, Winfield, Watkins.
BOURNE: Fewell, Coyle, Dowley, S Davies, Campbell, Taylor, Berry, Marsh, Neal, Smith, Spice. SUBS: Gooding, P Davies, Nicol, Beeney.

Attend: 308

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report NOW at REPORT.

Tuesday 23 September 2003

Ashford Town 2-1 Dartford, Banbury United 1-1 Burnham, Bashley 0-2 Newport IOW, Erith & Belvedere L-L Fleet Town, Folkestone Invicta 1-0 Sittingbourne, Hastings United 1-2 Chatham Town, Histon 2-0 Fisher Athletic, King's Lynn 2-0 Corby Town, Rothwell Town 0-2 Stamford, Salisbury City 0-4 Eastleigh, Tonbridge Angels 1-0 Burgess Hill Town.


Sunday, September 21, 2003

Saturday Sep 27 FAC 2QR Hitchin Town v Folkestone Invicta 3pm ko

Most of the following information has been gleaned from the excellent website hitchintownfc.co.uk
Posted by admin on Monday, September 15 2003

Canaries face Dr Martens' opponents in FA Cup

HITCHIN TOWN will play Folkestone Invicta at Top Field on Saturday September 27 in the FA Cup second qualifying round. This represents new opponents for the Canaries, who have never met the Dr Martens League side before.

It also ends a run of three years without a non-Ryman draw for Hitchin in the competition. Folkestone play in the Eastern Division after being relegated last season. But they've started the season off well, winning four of their first six games. They are managed by Neil Cugley, who was in charge of Ashford Town when Hitchin lost 4-1 to the Kent side in the FA Trophy in 1996.

Hitchin Town of the Rymans Premier League, current position 17th with 3 wins, 3 draws, 4 losses. Current form uncertain as beat Kingstonians 3-0 on Sep 20, but lost at home to Canvey Island midweek.

Hitchin Town FC Contact Details
Phone Number : (01462) 434483 - Clubhouse (01462) 459028 - During Game Clubcall number : 09066 555 817

Address: Fishponds Road, Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1NU

Directions to Hitchin Town FC

By car via the A1 , make your way up or down the A1(M) and exit at junction 8 (Stevenage North and Hitchin). Take the A602 towards Hitchin, go over two roundabouts and through lights on the one-way system following the signs for Bedford (A600).You will see a large open green to your right, at the next roundabout turn right into Fishponds Road and entrance to the ground is approx 100 yards on your left.

By car via the M1, from the M1 take junction 10 , Luton South & Airport and follow the A505 to Hitchin (signposted all the way). When in Hitchin turn left at the next large roundabout ,the one after a mini rounabout with a petrol station to your right,and follow signs for Bedford A600 . Straight over the next set of traffic lights ,at the next roundabout turn right into Fishponds Road. Entrance 100 yards on the left.

By train - From King's Cross station, trains at 06 and 51 minutes past the hour, arriving Hitchin at 46 and 19 minutes past respectively. From Hitchin station the ground is one mile.Come out the station, go over the Pelican crossing towards B&Q; and turn right and follow the road around into Nightingale Road. At the bottom of this road ,at the roundabout, bear right past the Woolpack pub and continue past the church on your right and recreation ground on your left. At the next roundabout take the road that bears slightly right ,past the Victoria pub on your right. Continue up this road ,past two schools and the swimming pool , HTFC is at the top of the road just before the roundabout.


Saturday, September 20, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Salisbury City (0) 1-1 (1) Folkestone Invicta
Invicta got off to a great start, in the second minute Allan Tait chested the ball down and volleyed the goal from the edge of the box. (0-1). Millar should have increased the lead in the 13th minute. HT (0-1).

Dryden had a good chance in the 59th minute but failed to score, and shortly afterwards Steve Strong levelled the score in the 63rd minute.

The main talking points of the game centered around the lady referee, Jaynie Frampton, who turned down a seemingly good penalty shout from each team. I suppose you could say she was even handed.

INVICTA: Kessell, Everitt, Larkin (Winfield 67), Flanagan, Guest, Hogg, Chandler, Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar (Ayling 79). SNU: Blackman, Watkins, Dyson..

Attend: 463

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.

RESULTS Sep 20, 2003
DM Eastern Division - Saturday 20 September 2003

Ashford Town 1-1 Chatham Town, Eastleigh 4-1 Corby Town, Erith & Belvedere 1-3 Bashley, Fisher Athletic 1-0 Burnham, Fleet Town 1-1 Banbury United, Hastings United 0-3 Dartford, Histon 2-0 Burgess Hill Town, King's Lynn 4-0 Newport IOW, Rothwell Town 0-0 Sittingbourne, Salisbury City 1-1 Folkestone Invicta, Stamford 1-3 Tonbridge Angels.


Saturday, September 20, 2003

STRIPES have a Function Room to be proud of
The FFSC's summer project to refurbish and renovate STRIPES Club has been completed and the football club now have a real asset in the Function Room. See for youselves at close hand if you are able to get tickets for the Tony Cottee Sportsmans Evening on September 25.

Sep 25 Sportsmans Evening with Tony Cottee Tickets are just �30 incl a four course meal and comedian. Contact Andy Ingleston to purchase tickets on 07775 584196

CLIVES REPORT
The function room is now complete. Thanks to Bill Russell who has finished the lighting! Toilets updated complete re paint and repair ... Deep clean!

It has been a long hard job but well worth it! The numbers may have been short at times but thanks to the few we now have a function room to be proud of. Once the rear windows are installed it will look as a good outside as in! The function room is available for christenings, weddings and funerals ... all catered for ... band nights, ideal for a family party.

A special thanks to my Dad (Ken Arnold) for all the finishing touches ... he has even trained Geoff but as for Nathan a bit of work still needed but he is very young! We have just about enough cash to finish the toilets in the front . The main bar will have to wait . If you can make the dinner you will be shocked to see just what has been done.

If we ever get a home game I will see you all then!

BOARDROOM THANKS
Clive:
I'm sure Bob and other senior guys at the club have already said this, but speaking as a director, I would just like to put on record the board's great thanks for the immense work you and your fellow grafters have done on Stripes. It will be an enormous asset to the club, and is a measure of your commitment which should not go unrecorded.

Many thanks again.

Jonathan


Thursday, September 18, 2003

PREVIEW
Sep 20 DM Salisbury v Invicta 3pm
Sep 23 DM Invicta v Sittingbourne 7.45pm
Last nights friendly with Kent Police finished up a 5-3 victory for Invicta. Manager Neil Cugley was particularly impressed with the performance of Lee Blackman who scored a hat-trick and with John Ayling who had just flown back from the USA, was jet-lagged yet put in a good 70 minutes and in Neils words was back to his old self again. Neil is hopeful that James Millar will be fit enough for selection on Saturday at Salisbury. Captain Scott Lindsey is unfortunately out with a broken wrist so Mark Munday will continue as captain.

Anthony Hogg

Popular midfielder Anthony Hogg, recently of Welling and Gravesend, will be signing loan forms tonight so should be playing for Invicta for the next five weeks. He is not cup-tied so will be available for FA Cup and Trophy ties. So that's mostly good news, I for one will be glad to see Hoggy back in the amber and black and as a founder member of the J.A. Appreciation Society look forward to seeing John given more opportunities to weave his magic again at the Westbourne.





FIXTURES w/c Sep 20, 2003
DM Eastern Division - Saturday 20 September 2003

Ashford Town v Chatham Town, Eastleigh v Corby Town, Erith & Belvedere v Bashley, Fisher Athletic v Burnham, Fleet Town v Banbury United, Hastings United v Dartford, Histon v Burgess Hill Town, King's Lynn v Newport IOW, Rothwell Town v Sittingbourne, Salisbury City v Folkestone Invicta, Stamford v Tonbridge Angels.

Tuesday 23 September 2003

Ashford Town v Dartford, Banbury United v Burnham, Bashley v Newport IOW, Erith & Belvedere v Fleet Town, Folkestone Invicta v Sittingbourne, Hastings United v Chatham Town, Histon v Fisher Athletic, King's Lynn v Corby Town, Rothwell Town v Stamford, Salisbury City v Eastleigh, Tonbridge Angels v Burgess Hill Town.


Monday, September 15, 2003

Hitchin Town v Folkestone Invicta - Away Again

Guest Link - Log on to Hitchin Town FC our next opponents in the FA Cup.

Full Draw - FAC 2QR - Prize Money �3750

Frickley Ath v Shildon
Whitby T v Winsford Utd
Runcorn FC Halton v Guiseley
Droylsden v Burscough
Pickering T v Ossett T/Ossett Alb
Vauxhall Motors v Southport
Dunston Fed/Billingham T v Fleetwood T
Bridlington T v Sheffield/Farsley Celtic
Stocksbridge PS v Brandon Utd
Ashton Utd v Hyde Utd
Blyth Spartans v Bamber Bridge
Marine v Rossendale Utd
Chester-le-Street v Bradford PA
Maltby Main v Ashington
Brarow v Harrogate T
Lancaster C v Altrincham
Gainsborough Trinity v Skelmersdale Utd
Witton Alb v Wakefield & Emley
Guisborough T v Stalybridge Celtic
Chorley v Armthorpe Welfare/Whickham
Radcliffe B v Oldham T
Spennymoor Utd v Warrington T
Gedling T v Alfreton T
Newcastle T v Sutton Coldfield T/Causeway Utd
Cambridge C v Ilkeston T
Hednesford T v Bromsgrove R
Rothwell T v Bedford T
Stafford R v Grantham T
Redditch Utd v Shirebrook T
Spalding Utd/Sutton T v Corby T/Halesowen T
Stamford v Kettering T
Hucknall T v Congleton T
Soham Town R v Histon
Biddulph V/Buxton v Belper T
Nuneaton B v Worcester C
Worksop T v King's Lynn/Stewarts & Lloyds
Rugby Utd v Mickleover Sports/Eastwood T
Moor Green v Hinckley Utd
Basingstoke T v Cray Wanderers
Sutton Utd v Bishop's Stortford
Ware/Buckingham T v Thurrock
Ashford T/Bromley v Dartford
Sittingbourne v East Thurrock Utd
Boreham Wood v Burgess Hill T
Bracknell T v Tilbury
Hendon v Enfield
Canvey Island v Uxbridge
Wingate & Finchley v Hillingdon B/Oxford C
Hampton & Richmond B v Kingstonian
Heybridge Swifts v Worthing
Lowestoft T v Tonbridge Angels/Lewes
Hythe T v Maidstone Utd
Leyton v Leatherhead
Slough T v Welling Utd
Thame Utd v Thamesmead T
Abingdon T v Chesham Utd
Hornchurch v Billericay T
Newmarket T v Fleet T
Braintree T v Aylesbury Utd
St Albans C v Grays Ath
Hayes v Tooting & Mitcham Utd
Enfield T v Carshalton Ath
Hitchin T v Folkestone Invicta
Ford Utd v Didcot T
Croydon Ath v AFC Wallingford
Northwood v AFC Sudbury
Dover Ath v Maidenhead Utd
Burnham Ramblers v St Margaretsbury/Leighton T
Eastbourne B v Chelmsford C
Harrow B v Wroxham/Flackwell Heath
Harlow T v Crawley T
Newport Co v Weymouth
Bognor Regis T v Havant & Waterlooville
Newport IOW v Tiverton T
Weston-super-Mare v Dorchester T
Paulton R v Welton R/Bishop Sutton
Mangotsfield Utd v Wimborne T
Brislington v Bath C
Salisbury C v Westbury Utd
Chippenham T v Winchester C
Gloucester C/Team Bath v Merthyr Tydfil
Lymington & New Milton v Clevedon Utd
Cirencester T v Andover
Exmouth T/St Blazey v Highworth T


Saturday, September 13, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Raynes Park Vale (0) 0-2 (0) Folkestone Invicta A much improved performance from Invicta saw the DM Eastern side ease out their Combined Counties League opposition from this years FA Cup competition. Folkestone scored twice in the second half; Dryden (60) and Hegley (80) and had the luxury of an unconverted penalty which was skied over the bar by Martin Chandler as he lost his footing.

INVICTA: Kessells, Watkins, Larkin, Flanagan, Guest, Everitt, Chandler (Winfield), Munday, Dryden (Blackman), Tait, Millar (Hegley).SNU: Holdaway

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.

FA Cup 1RQ involving Dr Martens Eastern Division sides.(played Sep 13)
Oadby 0-2 Stamford, *Corby Town 1-1 Halesowen Town, Waltham Forest 1-3 Rothwell, Mildenhall 1-6 Histon, *Kings Lynn 2-2 S&L; Corby, Lymington 1-0 Erith & Bel, *Ashford 1-1 Bromley, *Tonbridge 1-1 Lewes, Fareham 1-2 Newport IoW, Burgess Hill 2-1 Abingdon United, Sittingbourne 1-0 Whyteleafe, Three Bridges 1-2 Fleet Town, Salisbury City 4-1 Taunton.

Played Sunday Sep 14
Dartford vs Peacehaven & Telscombe,

*Replays on Tuesday Sep 16, 7.45pm
Log on to TheFA.com on Monday for news of the 2nd Qualifying Round Draw which takes place at The FA's Soho Square headquarters at 11am or listen live on the Competitions newsline - 09066 555 888


Thursday, September 11, 2003

TOGETHER on the road to Cardiff

The confident air that enveloped the environs of the Westbourne stadium in Cheriton Road at the beginning of the season seems to have been replaced by uncertainty, and a general lack of confidence in the Folketone Invicta ranks.

I suppose it's true to say that the results of the first three games flattered us and that we have been brought back to earth since with a bump, but we haven't really become a bad team in that 2/3 week period. The fear of losing, so much associated with last season, seems to have returned and it seems to me that we must try and rise above that. We haven't played anybody yet who could play at the Premier level of the non-league pyramid so far this season so we must stop talking ourselves down when a result or two goes against us.

We haven't been doing our jobs well enough, players have let their standards slip, management have not responded quickly enough when changes have been needed, and the rest of us have not believed enough to offer unconditional support. Now I'm not saying don't criticise but football is so often about confidence and if we look back to the preseason games as well as the seasons matches we must surely feel a litttle bit happier about ourselves.

Lets all take a few more steps TOGETHER on the road to Cardiff and continue the FA Cup run on Saturday.

FIXTURES
FA Cup 1RQ involving a Dr Martens Eastern Division Team. Matches to be played Saturday September 13th 2003.

Oadby vs Stamford, Corby Town vs Halesowen Town, Waltham Forest vs Rothwell, Mildenhall vs Histon, Kings Lynn vs S&L; Corby, Raynes Park Vale vs Folkestone Invicta ** Lymington vs Erith & Bel, Ashford vs Bromley, Tonbridge vs Lewes, Fareham vs Newport IoW, Burgess Hill vs Abingdon United, Dartford vs Peacehaven & Telscombe, Sittingbourne vs Whyteleafe, Three Bridges vs Fleet Town, Salisbury City vs Taunton.

** If a replay is required it will be on Tuesday Sep 16 at 7.45pm.

YOUTH SECTION NEWS
Author: John Hurley
There is an alteration for this weekend's fixtures. Due to Bromley experiencing problems with their pitch, the away game for the U14s has been changed to a home game. The fixture scheduled now for Dec 21 will be the away one.


Saturday, September 06, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Folkestone Invicta (1) 1-2 (2) Eastleigh
Scorers: (Invicta) Millar 31. (Eastleigh) Bright 8, Hughes 12
INVICTA: Kessell, Watkins, Larkin, Flanagan, Guest, Lindsey (Hegley), Chandler (Everitt), Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar. SNU: Towse, Winfield, Egan.
EASTLEIGH: CBowers Matthews, Chamberlain, Collins, Bright, Warren, Marshall, Hughes, Gibbens, Sales (Brown), Banger, Woods. SNU: Ashford, Rofe, R Matthews.

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.

Other DME Results
Banbury 3 - 0 Fisher
Bashley 5 - 0 Hastings
Burnham 2 - 2 Ashford
Chatham 0 - 2 Rothwell
Corby 2 - 1 Erith
Sittingbourne 3 - 1 Fleet
Tonbridge 2 - 2 Salisbury
Newport IOW 1 - 1 Histon


Friday, September 05, 2003

The Action is LIVE at the Westbourne

Folkestone Invicta are hoping for more cup success over the next few weeks and would be particularly grateful to get a home draw or two come their way. Your best chance of seeing Neil Cugleys young charges over the next few weeks is to join with the growing band of travelling supporters so look out for details of supporters club coach travel and ensure your fix of entertainment.

However don't despair, big spenders Eastleigh are coming to the Westbourne on Saturday afternoon for some league action and although they are now without Southamptons legend "Le Tiss", they have still assembled a strong squad and will be keen to cover their disappointment at their early FA Cup departure.

Cugley should have a fit squad to make his selection from (providing they got thru last nights rigorous training!). Defender Adam Flanagan has served his one match suspension and looks likely to be in the starting line-up on Saturday as Cugley juggles his defenders to try and solve the defensive problems of his side. Their are few problems at the other end of the side, twin strikers Tait and Dryden are in scintillating form and must be the first names on the teamsheet. The midfield is still giving cause for concern, on paper they look very strong, but they have to play on grass. When they get their passing game going they look like a premier side, lets hope they will be next season.

Lets see more of you Folkestonians on Saturday at the Westbourne Cheriton Road. You'll have plenty of time to get home to watch England on the box.

NEXT FIXTURES
Sep 06
DM Invicta v Eastleigh 3pm
KLD2 Groundhoppers v Invicta Res 3pm
Sep 13
FAC 1RQ Raynes Park Vale v Invicta 3pm


Monday, September 01, 2003

Dr Martens Eastern Fixtures -Saturday 6 September 2003
Banbury United v Fisher Athletic, Bashley v Hastings United, Burgess Hill Town v King's Lynn, Burnham v Ashford Town, Chatham Town v Rothwell Town, Corby Town v Erith & Belvedere, Dartford v Stamford, Folkestone Invicta v Eastleigh, Newport Iow v Histon, Sittingbourne v Fleet Town, Tonbridge Angels v Salisbury City.


Saturday, August 30, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Dulwich Hamlet (1) 1-3 (0) Folkestone Invicta
Dulwich Hamlet started well, scoring in the 8th minute through Houghton
. The equaliser came in the 67th minute from Everitt, the keeper couldn't hold Drydens shot from Millars cross and the ball ran loose to Micheal. Invicta then had to wait for the late show for that man Tait to score a brace (86th & 90th minutes).

Invicta are now away to either Whitstable or Raynes Park Vale in the FA Cup1RQ on the 13th September.

INVICTA: Kessel, Watkins(Ayling 64), Larkin, Everitt, Guest, Munday, Lindsey, Chandler, Dryden, Tait, Millar. SNU: Winfield, Dyson, Egan.

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.

FA Cup Preliminary Round - Eastern Division Clubs
Stamford 2-0 Bourne, Burnham 1-7 Arlesey Town, Barton Rovers 2-2 Rothwell, Long Buckby 1-5 Kings Lynn, Tonbridge 4-0 BAT Sports, Fleet 1-0 Epsom & Ewell, Gosport Borough 2-4 Erith & Belvedere, Southwick 1-4 Burgess Hill, Chatham 2-4 Andover, Ashford Town 3-0 Eastbourne Utd, Corby 2-1 Lincoln United, Histon 7-0 Yeading, Wroxham 6-1 Banbury, Dartford vs Bashley, Fisher 3-4 Bedfont, Sidlesham 0-2 Sittingbourne, Hastings 1-3 Bracknell Town, VCD Athletic 2-1 Eastleigh, Horsham 1-2 Newport IOW, Salisbury 4-0 Odd Down.
Whitstable 1-3 Raynes Park Vale (Invicta are away to Reynes Park Vale in the1RQ)

For the FULL set of results and the draw goto The FA.com.


Thursday, August 28, 2003

Invicta lose way to Homelands
Are we ready for the road to Cardiff

On Monday Invicta fans were brought down to earth with a jolt at Homelands. Ashford were an entirely differant prospect than Rothwell, Hastings and Fisher and we were a distinct second best. The defence showed its frailty and naivity again, the midfield were outplayed and Neil waited too long before changing his tactics and lineup.

Saturday sees us in South London at Dulwich Hamlet (East Dulwich) at the beginning of this years FA Cup adventure without the services of centre back Adam Flanagan (suspension) and Mark Towse (starting Uni in East Anglia). John Ayling will be available this weekend but is then holidaying in America. Tony Kessell continues to deputise for the holidaying Mo Munden but he is in terrifiic form so Mo will have trouble displacing him.

Neil needs an experianced defender so will probably ask Captain Scott Lindsey to move into defence, Dan Larkins could switch to centre back to partner John Guest. Martin Chandler should get a midfield start and Darren Winfield or Nick Hegley will want the left back berth. Hopefully our twin strikers, Tait and Dyrden, will be back on song, but we really must learn to defend and conceed less goals and avoid putting too much of the burden on our strikers.

If a replay becomes necessary then it will be at the Westbourne on Tuesday night at 7.45pm, I've got a feeling in me water that it might be!

Saturday Aug 30 - FAC prelim - Dulwich Hamlet v Invicta 3pm
Saturday Aug 30 - KLD2 - Invicta Res v Beckenham Res 3pm


Monday, August 25, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Ashford Town (2) 2-1 (1) Invicta
Folkestone started well and Tait got on the scoresheet in the 9th minute.
Invicta's defence looked out of touch (except for the excellant Micheal Everitt) and was guilty of standing off allowing Ashford to make room for their shots. We were soon to find out why Neil Cugley had tried to sign Paul Jones as he scored easily in the 17th and 28th minutes.

INVICTA: Kessell, Watkins (Chandler), Larkin, Flanagan, Guest, Everitt, Lindsey (Ayling), Munday, Dryden, Tait, Millar (Hegley). SNU: Winfield, Egan.

 See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Tuesday at REPORT.

Bank Holiday Monday 25th August 2003
Other DM Eastern Results
Dartford 1-1 Chatham Town,
Eastleigh 2-1 Newport IoW,
Erith & Belvedere 1-1 Sittingbourne,
Fisher Athletic 3-7 Tonbridge Angels,
Fleet Town 0-2 Burnham,
Hastings United 1-2 Burgess Hill Town,
Histon 3-0 Corby Town,
Rothwell Town 1-0 Banbury United,
Salisbury City 5-1 Bashley,
Stamford 2-3 King's Lynn.


Saturday, August 23, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Folkestone Invicta (2) 3-0 (0) Fisher Ahletic
A goal in both halves from Jimmy Dryden and an injury time goal at the end of the first half were enough to secure all the points for Invicta.

John Guest sustained a knock early into the second half and had to be replaced by Towse, Larkin moved to the centre and Towse took over the left back role.

For Fisher the two centre backs (Lorraine & Aris) were impressive throughout but the strikeforce failed to trouble a solid looking Invicta.

INVICTA: Kessell, Watkins (Chandler), Larkin, Flanagan, Guest (Towse), Munday, Lindsey, Everitt, Dryden, Tait, Millar (Hegley). SNU: Ayling, Egan.
FISHER: Holder, Khan, Young, Aris, Lorraine, Smith, Islam, Knight, Abbot, Brady, Rouse. SUBS: Fletcher, Taylor, Quinn, Josephs, Speels.

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.

Other Dr Martens Eastern Results - Saturday 23rd August 2003
Banbury United 0-1 Salisbury City, Bashley 0-3 Histon , Burgess Hill Town 3-1 Erith & Belvedere, Burnham 0-4 Stamford, Chatham Town 1-2 Eastleigh, Corby Town 0-5 Ashford Town, King's Lynn 4-1 Fleet Town, Newport IoW 3-0 Dartford, Sittingbourne 2-2 Hastings United, Tonbridge Angels 4-0 Rothwell Town.


Saturday, August 23, 2003

Fisher Today, Ashford on Monday

Fans are urged to come along to the Westbourne, bring friends and family and get behind captain Scott Lindseys team. There are unlikely to be any changes to the starting line-up today as Scott leads out his young charges to go for a third straight win in the Dr Martens Eastern division.

Manager Neil Cugley was delighted that his youngesters did not retaliate despite sometimes severe provocation from the Hastings United team on Tuesday.

Tony Kessell will continue to deptise for Mo Munden in goal for at least the next two games. Adam Flanagan, sent off at Rothwell on the opening day of the season, will start his suspension on Saturday 30th Aug up at Dulwich Hamlet in our opening FA Cup fixture.

Neil is full of praise for his talented squad players who have had to start on the bench so far this season, they will all be needed at some point in the campaign and they provide us with so many more options.

FIXTURES
Aug 23 DM Invicta v Fisher 3pm ko.
Aug 25 DM Ashford v Invicta 3pm ko


Thursday, August 21, 2003

MIDWEEK FINAL SCORE
Dr Martens Eastern
Wednesday 20th August 2003
Burgess Hill Town 0 - 1 Dartford
Corby Town A - A Stamford (match abandoned - Ref injured)

After an exciting first week we share the top spot with several other teams but after the bank holiday weekend with four games completed there are likely to be fewer sides with maximum points, lets hope we are one of them! On Saturday we entertain Fisher Athletic and travel to Ashford on Monday afternoon. On Wednesday the U18's start their 2003/4 FA Cup adventure at Saltdean.

WEEKENDS FIXTURES
Dr Martens Eastern - Saturday 23rd August 2003
Banbury United v Salisbury City, Bashley v Histon , Burgess Hill Town v Erith & Belvedere, Burnham v Stamford, Chatham Town v Eastleigh, Corby Town v Ashford Town, Folkestone Invicta v Fisher Athletic, King's Lynn v Fleet Town, Newport IoW v Dartford, Sittingbourne v Hastings United, Tonbridge Angels v Rothwell Town.

Bank Holiday Monday 25th August 2003
Ashford Town v Folkestone Invicta, Dartford v Chatham Town, Eastleigh v Newport IoW, Erith & Belvedere v Sittingbourne, Fisher Athletic v Tonbridge Angels, Fleet Town v Burnham, Hastings United v Burgess Hill Town, Histon v Corby Town, Rothwell Town v Banbury United, Salisbury City v Bashley, Stamford v King's Lynn.

FA Youth Cup
Wednesday 27th August 2003
Saltdean v Invicta u18's


Tuesday, August 19, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Folkestone Invicta (1) 2 - 0 (0) Hastings United
Invicta turned on the style despite being severely provoked by a Hastings side more intent on bruising Invicta's forwards particularly Allan Tait, however he responded in the best way with a brace of goals to which Hastings had no reply.

INVICTA: Kessell, Watkins (Chandler), Larkin, Flanagan, Guest, Everitt, Lindsey, Munday, Dryden (Ayling), Tait, Millar (Hegley) SNU: Winfield, Egan.
HASTINGS: Brown, Sayer, Penfold, Burt, Startup, Peters, Spiller, McArthur (sent off 69), Howey, Sherwood, Taylor. SUBS: Lovell, Sims, Edridge, Graham, Webb.

See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Wednesday at REPORT.

Other Dr Martens Eastern results Aug 19, 2003
Banbury United 0 - 4 Histon
Bashley 4 - 1 Eastleigh
Burnham 2 - 1 Salisbury City
Chatham Town 0 - 3 Fisher Athletic
Kings Lynn 1 - 0 Rothwell Town
Newport IOW 2 - 1 Fleet Town
Sittingbourne 1 - 2 Ashford Town
Tonbridge Angels vs 2 - 1 Erith & Belvedere


Monday, August 18, 2003

Midweek Dr Martens Eastern Fixtures
Tuesday August 19th 2003
Banbury United vs Histon
Bashley vs Eastleigh
Burnham vs Salisbury City
Chatham Town vs Fisher Athletic
Folkestone Invicta vs Hastings United
Kings Lynn vs Rothwell Town
Newport IOW vs Fleet Town
Sittingbourne vs Ashford Town
Tonbridge Angels vs vs Erith & Belvedere

Wednesday August 20th 2003
Burgess Hill Town vs Dartford
Bashley vs Histon


Sunday, August 17, 2003

Captain Scott needs your support

With confidence high among Folkestone Invicta�s first team squad as the Dr Martens� Eastern Division campaign opened, senior players have spoken about the great community spirit at the club, which they feel should translate into a much higher level of local support at home games.

After a good start in the opening match, crucially the players have thrown off the disappointments of last season�s relegation, and have been buoyed by manager Neil Cugley�s ambition for the club in the Dr Marten�s Eastern Division, and the welcome three year sponsorship deal with Westbourne Hygiene.

Scott Lindsey But as the squad faced up to a demanding season, captain Scott Lindsey said: � It makes a huge difference to the squad, knowing that there is a substantial crowd behind us. That support translates into knowing that Folkestone Invicta is a great ambassador for the town and its people.

�Even more important, we are hoping this season to attract even more youngsters to come to home games and watch us play. With two youngsters being allowed in free with two paying adults, that a good deal, and it gets the young ones used to understanding the discipline of football, as well as the family spirit at Invicta.�

�That can take away the boredom so many young people feel these days, which can lead to anti-social behaviour�.

�And, of course, with the extensive youth policy at the Westbourne Stadium, there is a real opportunity for talented youngsters to develop their footballing abilities�.

Scott�s views were echoed by midfielder Michael Everitt, the local 21 year old, who started in the under-12 side and has progressed into becoming a regular in Invicta�s first team.

�We do need to know that there is good young support at the club, so that one day they can be able to offer that to Invicta. The spirit thing is important too � for when local lads like Jimmy Dryden and me walk off the pitch, we see many people we know in the crowd � and that does make us want to do our best.�

Manager Neil Cugley told how pleased he was with the presence in the squad of seven players from the Folkestone area. �It shows the club spirit is locally based and that is important for the community. I�m proud that the squad care so much about representing Folkestone � and I hope this will spin off into greater support at home games this season�


Sunday, August 17, 2003

RECENTLY IN THE EASTERN DIVISION.
easterndivision_info DME - Author robin_peel

Saturday August 16th 2003.
Ashford Town 1 - 1 Banbury United 307
Dartford 1 - 3 Bashley 243
Eastleigh 0 - 0 Kings Lynn 296
Erith & Belvedere 0 - 3 Burnham 109
Fisher Athletic 0 - 3 Newport IOW 87
Fleet Town 1 - 2 Tonbridge Angels 201
Hastings United 3 - 1 Corby Town 301
Histon 2 - 1 Chatham Town 121
Rothwell Town 1 - 4 Folkestone Invicta 138
Stamford AFC 1 - 0 Sittingbourne 173

Sunday August 17th 2003.
Salisbury 0-1 Burgess Hill

Latest Dr Martens EASTERN Table FootballWebPages .

Well, the big kick off arrived at last and the opening round of fixtures threw up the usual points of interest. I will start off with newboys Eastleigh�s home match against highly fancied Kings Lynn.

A couple of blows hit Eastleigh in the days leading up to the match. Firstly, legend Matt Le Tissier announced that he would not be playing for the side anymore during the coming season whilst a week before kick off saw the land around the sides Ten Acres ground invaded by gypsies! On the field a crowd of 296 saw the sides battle out a scoreless draw with the Linnets playing for 56 minutes with ten men after midfielder David Staff was shown a straight red card.

The teams dropping down from the Premier Division both made a highly satisfactory start. Folkestone had a tough looking trip to Rothwell Town but came through it with a comprehensive 4-1 win. Last season, the Bones were unbeaten in the Eastern Division until the Autumn but after 48 minutes they found themselves 0-4 down. Invicta went in at the break two goals to the good and two goals in as many minutes soon after the restart secured the points.

Hastings entertained Corby Town and it was to be a flying start for new Hastings manager Steve Lovell as his side won 3-1. It was to be a poor start for Lee Glover�s Steelmen, who failed to arrive at the Pilot Field until 2-40Pmand then found themselves 0-2 down after just 18 minutes. The crowd at Hastings was 301, one of only two Eastern Division crowds to top the 300 mark on the opening day.

Stamford ended last season in third spot and with the nucleus of the playing squad still intact, the Daniels were hopeful of a decent season. Stamford had been unbeaten on the opening day of the season since being promoted to the Dr Martens League and that record was maintained with a hard fought single goal win over visiting Sittingbourne. In the end it was to be a headed own goal from James Campbell that settled the outcome with Stamford recording a seventh straight league win over the Brickies in the process!

Many favourable reports have been heard about in pre season about Tonbridge. The Angels would have been sorry to have seen last season end as they finished on a run of seven wins and a draw in their last eight Eastern Division matches. Confidence is high at the Longmead Stadium and the Angels started off with a win, beating Fleet by the odd goal in three away from home. Hamid Barr and Brendon Cass scored for Tonbridge, the former from the penalty spot, with new signing Shaun Hale replying for the home side.

Steve Fallon�s Histon are also fancied to do well this season and they also opened up with three points, although they had to wait until an injury time winner from Neil Andrews to claim maximum points against visiting Chatham. This was Andrews� second goal of the game and he had originally put Histon ahead on 52 minutes, only for Chatham�s Frannie Collin to equalize.

After the opening day of last season, Newport IOW had conceded six goals. A much better start for the Islanders this time saw them beat Fisher 3-0 at the Surrey Docks. A crowd of 87, the lowest of the day in the division, saw the Fish fail to register a single shot on target in the 90 minutes and end the match with nine men, Danny Fletcher and Matthew Rouse both being given first use of the showers by referee Mr Lodge. An own goal from Terry Khan set the ball rolling and further goals from Gareth Keeping and Jamie O�Rourke settled the outcome.

Biggest crowd of the day was at Ahsford, where the 307 saw the home side share the spoils with Banbury. Both goals came in the second half with Liam O�Neil opening the scoring for the Puritans before substitutes Lewis Phillips and Lee McRobert combined, with the former scoring the equalizing goal.

Bashley had a highly successful season in 2002/03 and announced their intentions with a fine 3-1 win away at Dartford on the opening day. It was the Darts who took the lead after just ten minutes with Martin Buglione. After that it was the Bash who ran the show with Tony Wallis equalizing after 25 minutes and scoring a second just before the break. Wallis went on to grab the first Eastern Division treble of the season, adding his third goal on the hour and sending Bashley back to the New Forest with three points.

The other Eastern Division match saw Erith & Belvedere entertain Burnham, with the visitors scoring three goals in the first 56 minutes to record a comprehensive opening day win. Burnham captain Paul Brett opened the scoring after eight minutes and the lead was doubled from the penalty spot on 32 minutes, Chris Ferdinand making no mistake from the spot. Michael Bartley ended the scoring for the day on 56 minutes with 109 watching the match.

Of the sides who were promoted from the Eastern Division at the end of last season, Dorchester came from behind to draw 1-1 at home to Hinckley United with 521 watching the match. Eastbourne Borough ended last season in the runners up spot in the Eastern Division and they also started off with a 1-1 draw. A crowd of 494 saw the home side go in to the lead through Ben Austin before visiting Stafford Rangers drew level on the half hour. A highly creditable result this against a Stafford Rangers side who finished in the runners up spot at the end of last season.

easterndivision_info DME - Author robin_peel


Saturday, August 16, 2003

FINAL SCORE
Rothwell Town (0) 1 Invicta (2) 4
Invicta Scorers: Dryden 14, Tait 27 & 48, Chandler 47.Rothwell Scorer: Weale 49.

INVICTA: Kessel, Watkins (Winfield 75), Larkin, Flanagan (SO 56 min), Guest, Lindsey, Everitt, Chandler, Dryden (Hegley 80), Tait (Ayling 79), Millar. SNU Dyson, Egan
See Richard Murrill's FULL match report on Sunday at REPORT.


Friday, August 15, 2003

SPORTSMANS EVENING
An Evening with Tony Cottee
The next Sportsmans Evening to be held on Thursday 25th September 2003 will be a questions and answer session with Tony Cottee. So if you've had enough of paper talk regarding West Ham come and find out the truth from Tony. We look forward to seeing you. Tickets including 4 course meal and comedian just �30.00. Contact Andy Ingleston to purchase tickets on 07775 584196 or by EMAIL.


Thursday, August 14, 2003

PREVIEW
Saturday Aug 16 - DM Rothwell Town v Invicta 3pm
Tuesday Aug 19 - DM Invicta v Hastings Utd 7.45pm

After the best pre-season in living memory for Invicta, it is time now to lay a few ghosts to rest and face up to our first challenge against "the Bones", Northamptonshires Rothwell Town.

Two important senior players are not available for this first Dr Martens Eastern game but Neil has the strength in depth in this years squad to keep us in the hunt.

Tony Kessels stands in for veteran keeper Mo Munden, and Mark Munday the tall infuental midfielder misses Saturdays game but returns in time for Tuesdays visitors Hastings United. Now I know its been ridiculously hot and the playing conditions have not been easy for our boys but they do deserve your support. Come along and see how the ground and its facilities have been transformed this summer by the Supporters Club.

The club have kept Season Ticket prices pegged down to last seasons values and thats going to seem like a real bargain after a few wins so be a trend setter and hook up with one of Folkestones sucess stories.

With alll the changes to the non-league football pyramid at the end of this season we have to achieve a top 8 position to be sure of a good standard of football in 2004/5, my personal view is that we will be in the top 5 minimum and if we get a bit of good luck we'll do even better.

NEW SPONSOR FOR PLAYER OF THE MONTH
The new sponsor for the Supporters Club Player of the Month is F J FULLICK LTD, many thanks to Steel & Co for last season.


Monday, August 11, 2003

WEEKEND FIXTURES

Dr Martens Eastern Division Fixtures
Saturday August 16th 2003
Ashford Town v Banbury United
Dartford v Bashley
Eastleigh v Kings Lynn
Erith & Belv v Burnham
Fisher Athletic v Newport IOW
Fleet Town v Tonbridge Angels
Hastings United v Corby Town
Histon v Chatham Town
Rothwell Town v Folkestone Invicta
Stamford AFC v Sittingbourne

Sunday August 17th 2003 Salisbury v Burgess Hill Town

Go Ahead KFL Div2 - Saturday August 16th 2003
Invicta Reserves v Lordswood Reserves

We are going to try and run a Reserves page with at least the basic information, your patience would be appreciated while we try and get our act together. From the Season 03/04 tab select Reserves, then you're on your own.


Saturday, August 09, 2003

INVICTA PASS THE FINAL TEST AND WIN ON PENALTIES
In the searing heat of the Westbourne Stadium Neil Cugley's Folkestone Invicta showed Paul Parker's Welling United what a long way they've come since the disappoinments of last season.

They are still a very young side, the starting line-up comprised a couple of veterans and six U 22's from the 2002/3 side with three additional summer signings (all U 22's). Experienced Mark Munday (32, former Margate captain) was unavailable for selection and also misses the first league game next weekend.

During the second half Cugley gave further opportunities to six more of last seasons U 22's and none of them failed to impress.

Paul Parker brought down a small but experienced squad that included ex Cheriton Road favourite Anthony Henry, for this Sid Burvill memorial cup match. Parker would no doubt be pleased with the early goal lead in the 4th minute. Invicta failed to clear their lines and passed the ball out to a grateful BOOTH who scored easily from 3 yards out.

Wingback Drew WATKINS, signed from Cray during the summer, proved to be a thorn in the Wings side for much of the afternoon. His frequent attacks down the right resulted in the 55th minute equaliser, a speculative 25 yard lob that seemed to confuse the wings keeper.

So at 90 minutes it was honours even, 1-1 and straight to penalties to get a winner. Invicta's legendary keeper Mo Munden (39/40 years young!) showed the youngsters how its done saving three of Wellings penalty attempts, while Invicta's marksmen had little trouble scoring the required pens.

INVICTA: starting line-up; Munden, Watkins, Larkin, Flanagan, Guest, Lindsey, Everitt, Millar, Dryden, Tait, Hegley.
Brought on during the 2nd half; Winfield, Chandler, Ayling, Towse and Blackman

Read Richard Murrill's FULL MATCH report .... Sunday evening ....

NEXT FIXTURE
Sat Aug 16 - Dr Martens Eastern - Rothwell v Invicta - 3pm ko
Now it gets serious, after a succesful pre-season we travel to Northants to face ROTHWELL TOWN (the Bones) for the first time. Invicta will be trying to bounce back after the disappointing early relegation of last season but will not be taking anything for granted, I expect to see a few goals in the against column but a lot more in the plus column. There could be quite a few 3-2 scorelines I suspect, worrying but entertaining.


Wednesday, July 30, 2003

Jul 31 7.45pm INVICTA v DOVER ATHLETIC
On Thursday at the Westbourne, we are staging what promises to be the most interesting of the pre-season friendlies when Dover Athletic are the visitors competing for the Malcolm Welsh Shield. Our neighbours from the other side of the Alkham Valley had a very differant season than Invicta, finishing in third place in the Dr Martens Premier (Invicta were bottom of the DMP). There has always been a friendly rivalry between these two clubs despite the fact that they have rarely met in competetive matches. Hopefully we will be back playing at a higher level soon and able to resume those money spinning bank holiday local derbies.

But enough of dreams ... this is another oppportunity for both managers to give their squad players an opportunity to stake their claims for a place in the starting line-up when it gets real in a couple of weeks time. No one will want to sit this one out.


Tuesday, July 29, 2003

STRIPES - Work undertaken over the last two weeks
The work has continued with the function room ceiling and paintwork now complete Thanks to Mick Read. The decoration front bar toilets are underway The external works to Stripes are nearing completion all the guttering is now up roof complete, just the rear windows to go!

Saturday work will continue on Stripes. Sunday work on the function room in Stripes.

Start times Saturday 8.00 Sunday 9.00
Weekdays Ken Arnold, Mick Read and Nigel Patey, Saturday Phil Orris / Nigel Patey

The team of workers has been a little short in the last two weeks with Clive & Geoff away. The rear windows are to be replaced by new double glazed units with blockwork at the bottom. To do the work on the front bar we will need more helpers. This will be discussed by the committee at the next meeting. Money is still available for paint but the Stripes roof final payments will almost break the bank. It is hoped that a programme of repairs will not allow the Club to fall into such a poor state of repair.

Clive


Friday, July 25, 2003

RESTRUCTURING
Tony Kempster of www.tonykempster.co.uk
I have updated my site to include the details for the restructuring at the end of the season.

I have also had a go at allocating teams to divisions at both step two and step three of the new structure based on finishing positions at the end of last season.

I would welcome any comments on my allocation of teams to divisions - particularly where Weymouth, Dorchester, Bashley and Salisbury should go.

Tony


YOUTH SECTION
PE July 24
The U16`s held their belated presentation evening at Stripes on Wednesday with retiring manager Denis Hunt presenting Sam Marsh with the managers player of the year, followed by Players Player of the year awarded to captain William Dunlop and most improved player going to Simon Rainbow.

Team captain William Dunlop presented Denis with a book voucher and thanked Denis for all that he has done for the last two years.

Denis thanked the parents for their support throughout the season and team sponsors Six Mile Garage and School of English Studies. A big thank you also went to Mr Glen Richards of the Channel School for running the line.

NEW FIXTURE - Free Admittance
Monday July 28 Friendly Invicta U21 v Gills U19 7.30pm


Tuesday, July 22, 2003

SQUAD COMINGS & GOINGS
Wages have been capped this season in line with what the club can afford. Unfortunately Anthony Henry was above the cap and after talking to a few higher division clubs he has elected to join Welling Utd for a small undisclosed fee. As well as being a class act he is a very personable young man so we all wish him well.

Paul Chambers has left the club to help Lydd out, again the club is very grateful for his contributions over the years particularly his unpaid appearances at the end of last season.

Full backs Drew Watkins (prev Cray Wanderers) and Adam Flanagan (prev Hastings Utd) have signed. Last seasons loan player from Gillingham, James Millar, should have signed by tonight and striker Lee Blackman should be a contracted player by tonight.

Neil tells me that out of his squad of seventeen, 14 are under 24 years of age but many of them learned so much during last seasons difficulties that he has great hopes for them in the Eastern division.

TONIGHTS FIXTURE
Jul 22 PSF INVICTA v Herne Bay 7.45pm ko


Thursday, July 17, 2003

Westbourne Appointed as Main Sponser

As reported in this weeks Herald, Invicta have signed a new three year sponsorship deal with Westbourne Hygiene the Shorncliffe based suppliers of cleaning.solutions.

The deal involves shirt sponsorship, a high profile at the club, and the renaming of the Cheriton Road ground to the Westbourne Stadium.

Westbourne MD Peter West told the Herald "I've followed Folkestone Invicta's fortunes for many years and am delighted that we are gettng involved at what looks an exciting time for the club."

Invicta chairman Bob Dix was at pains to point out that Silver Springs 5 year period of sponsorship has been a very happy one and he hoped that they would be able to support us in other ways.

I asked Roger Knight about the new sponsorship deal with Folkestone based Westbourne Hygiene. "We're very excited about this new sponsorship arrangement. It's for the next three years, is a substantial amount of money, quite the biggest deal that Folkestone Invicta have ever had. Westbourne Hygiene are a successful local company and we at Invicta will be trying to match their success as we aim to bring Conference football to the town in the not too distant future."

SQUAD NEWS
Tony Henry is considering his future and talking to several higher league clubs. The resulting fee and the saving on the wages bill could speed up the signing of defenders Adam Flanagan and Drew Watkins.

NEXT FIXTURE
Saturday July 19th Invicta v Margate 3pm ko

CORKIES COACHES
Mick Cork has arranged coaches for the start of our FA Cup adventure (Dulwich Hamlet) and the FA Trophy (Oxford City), FFSC members travel for �8 (non-members �10) but make your booking soon.


Wednesday, July 16, 2003

FFSC AGM
Supporters Club members and anybody interested in the the future of Folkestone Invicta football club are reminded to attend tonights Annual General Meeting in Stripes at 8pm.

PHEW WHAT A SCORCHER
The heat wave continues and If you missed last nights game then read Richards report and Darren Lovell of maidstoneunited.co.uk report, however John Aylings goal was an early candidate for "Goal of the Season" and it was great to see Jim Dryden (2 goals) back looking so sharp in front of goal. During an 18 minute spell in the first half the two combined to destroy a weakened Maidstone side, in fact both sides werer missing important players. Allan Tait should return to lead the front line on Saturday against the Margate first half team, I think Margate brought at least 22 players for the last pre-season friendly.

TRIALISTS
Neil Cugley will be thinking long and hard as to which of the trialists he will retain for the start of the season in four weeks time. The two friendlies have given Neil opportunities to see how several players can cope with the forthcoming challenges, expect to see some decisions in the next week to ten days. Paul Chambers, who returned to help out the club at the end of last season, is not expected to play a key role this season.


Sunday, July 13, 2003

CAS TAYLOR
Corky writes in the forum
Many Invicta fans will be saddened to hear of the death of one of our former players, Cas Taylor last weekend.

Cas, who many of you know has been ill for a couple of years now, passed away in the Piligrims Hospice at Ashford on Saturday.

Friends will remember the wonderful 'benefit' game for Cas played at Cheriton Road some 15 months ago which showed just how well liked he was.

Sincere condolences to all friends and family.

Funeral at St Josephs Church, Ashley Avenue on Thursday, July 17 at 11.45am followed by burial at Hawkinge (12.30).

I understand there may be a get together in Stripes afterwards.

FIXTURES
This weeks fixtures are as follows:-
Jul 15 PSF Invicta v Maidstone Utd 7.45pm (This game is being played In memory of Cas Taylor)

Jul 19 PSF Invicta v Margate 3pm


Thursday, July 10, 2003

Neils Support Team in Place
League Fixtures Avail

SCOTT LINDSEY - has been appointed PLAYER/COACH. He was a good influence on the Folkestone youngsters last season an this appointment is in recognition of that.

LEE DYSON - has rejoined the club after spells with Maidstone and Dartford, but this time as joint assistant manager alongside Dave Williams. Lee is a qualified physio and he has been taking the training sessions.

LEAGUE FIXTURES NOW AVAILABLE - our season opens with a trip to Rothwell Town on Saturday Aug 16, home to Hastings on Tues 19th, then home to Fisher on Saturday 23rd. August Bank Holiday we are away to Ashford, on Boxing Day Ashford visit us. For a full list of league fixtures and the FA Cup and FA Trophy round dates please click here.


Tuesday, July 08, 2003

STRIPES - Work undertaken Last week
[1] Gents Toilets finished
[2] Soil moved
[3] Skip filled with scrap metal
[4] Dressing rooms / Corridor repainted
[5] Advertising boards replaced.
[6] Weeding
[7] Gates repaired
Weekdays Ken Arnold and Nigel Patey
Saturday Jon Prescott / Phil Orris / Nigel Patey & Clive Arnold
Sunday Geoff Senior / Clive Arnold / Ken Arnold / Stuart, Nathan and Albert Ingleston

Taps donated thanks to Lodge Green Developments.

The function room work will start this week.

We have acquired the blocks needed for the rear of Stripes , Phil Orris is hoping to sort out a team to start the work as soon as possible.

The dressing rooms have been repainted prior to the Gills game. Last years hard work made the job a quick task but many hands made light work.

Nigel and Ken have been doing a lot of small jobs during the week if you can help out mail Nigel.

The ground work is an endless task if you have an idea we will back it.

We are on the scrounge again this week it is for some cement if you have spare bag Nigel would make use of it.

The age range of workers this week 12- 76 thanks again all who helped.

Work this weekend
Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs and possibly blockwork. Sunday work on the function room in Stripes.

Start times Saturday 8.00, Sunday 9.00

Clive


Monday, July 07, 2003

Munday Signs, New Secretary appointed, GILLS are coming

MARK MUNDAY - Midfielder
An important signing for Neil Cugley, Mark Munday (32) was captain at Margate where he won two promotions with them. He started his career at Margate, moved on to Herne Bay where he was a prolific midield goal scorer, moved onto Ashford and then Gravesend before rejoining Margate in July 1997.

ANDY MORRIS - Scouting for Invicta
Andy Morris, who's knee injury caused him to be sidelined for most of last season and looks certain to miss this season, is to do some scouting for Invicta.

NEW CLUB SECRETARY
Ritchie Murning is to succeed Frank Clarke as the club secretary. Ritchie has moved from the midlands to the Ashford area and is an experienced Dr Martens secretary having served for Hednesford Town.

THE GILLS ARE COMING
First Division Gillingham have promised to bring a strong side to Cheriton Road on Wednesday for the first pre-season friendly of the summer for both teams. It's a 7.45pm kick off and it will be an opportunity to see one or two new faces in the Invicta squad. It may also be your first opportunity to witness some of the improvements and repairs around the ground and at Stripes brought about principally by members of the supporters club.

Wednesday 9th July PSF Invicta v Gillingham ko 7.45pm
Tuesday 15th July PSF Invicta v Maidstone ko 7.45pm


Sunday, July 06, 2003

Away Days in FA Cup and Trophy

Those of you not involved in summer pursuits over the weekend may have noticed that www.thefa.com has the draw for the opening rounds of the FA Cup and the FA Trophy. Lady luck hasn't exactly smiled upon us as we face away ties in both competitions. But never mind, enjoy the cricket, tennis, repeats on TV, barbecued flesh, etc, etc., winter will be here soon enough.

Aug 30 FAC Preliminary Round Dulwich Hamlet v Folkestone Invicta
Sep 13 FAC 1st Qualif.Round Whitstable or Raynes Park Vale v DH or FI

Oct 4 FAT Preliminary Round Oxford City v Folkestone Invicta
Nov 1 FAT 1st Round OC or FI v Hemel Hempstead or Met Police

FRANK CLARKE
Frank Clarke, the Fixtures Secretary, Company Secretary, Groundsman, etc., has left Invicta to take up a new challenge at local rivals Dover. His working relationship with Neil Cugley has been a good one over the last few years and is not a factor in Franks decision to go. We will miss him a great deal.


Monday, June 30, 2003

STRIPES - Work undertaken Last week
[1] Work to remove weeds surrounding pitch continued.
[2] Entrance lobby external work completed Stripes sign painted .
[3] New door to the rear of the Function Room. now painted
[4] Crash barriers repainted the whole ground is complete.
[5] Cage / Fence repairs.
[6] Toilets Function Room.
[7] Steps at rear of Stripes repointed.
[8] Gents Toilets work progressed .

Work this weekend
Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs / advertising boards.
Sunday work on the dressing rooms as Stripes in use. The dressing rooms just need a quick repaint.

Start times Saturday 8.00 - Sunday 9.00

Weekdays Ken Arnold and Nigel Patey
Saturday Jon Prescott / Phil Jordon/ Mick Cork & Pat / Trevor
Sunday Geoff Senior / Clive Arnold & Ken Arnold
We have received a few compliments about the work being done. Two functions have praised the toilets.
We have along way to go. The function room will start soon. Mick Read will be charge of the painting.

The rear of the building was discussed at the last meeting. We must do a temp repair. Long term new windows are needed together with blockwork. The repainting of the barriers was money well spent as the ground looks really smart. The tea bar at the changing rooms is the next external job.

Nigel and Ken have been doing a lot of small jobs during the week if you can help out mail Nigel.
Some advertising boards need be move this weekend before the Gills game.
We are on the scrounge this week taps ! So if you have some in the garage bring them over!

Clive


Monday, June 23, 2003

STRIPES SUMMER REVAMP/GROUND MAINTAINANCE - Progress Report

Work undertaken Saturday/Sunday (21/22 June) :

  • Work to remove weeds surrounding pitch continued.
  • Entrance lobby preparation work paint work all undercoated and window repaired..
  • New door to the rear of the Function Room.
  • Crash barriers repainted the whole ground is almost completes.
  • Sunken area of pitch filled in and leveled.
  • Fence repairs.
  • Toilets Function Room.
    Ladies complete and passed by Anne Lester
    Gents Toilets work progressed .
  • Curtains sorted at last!
  • Oil tank repainted
Weekday Ken Arnold and Nigel Patey Friday Ken Arnold/ Clive Arnold Saturday Nigel Patey / Jon Prescott / Phil Orris / Phil Jordon/ Pete Hancock & Harry Lester Sunday Geoff Senior / Clive Arnold / Ken Arnold / Stuart Ingleston & Pat & Trevor

Work this weekend - Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs - Sunday work on the toilets and function room.
Start times Saturday 8.00, Sunday 9.00

If you can help out please join one of the teams. If you can only offer evenings we can give you a job. Together we can do it! Clive


Sunday, June 22, 2003

THE SUNDAY PAPERS
Reported in todays Non-League Paper
All Change as FA Vote for a new pyramid.

Wholesale changes to the non-league pyramid were agreed by the FA council meeting this week. A 71% vote in favour means that from the season after next a new regionalised Conference Second Division will be put in place with 22 teams each in the northern and southern sections.

The clubs elected to these leagues will come from the existing feedere - the Northern Premier (Unibond), Southen (Dr Martens) and Isthmian (Ryman). Conference Two will be run by the newly-formed Football Alliance, a coalition of the Unibond, Dr Martens, Ryman and Conference.

The Ryman however may continue to oppose the FA's decision.

The revised pyramid.

Step 1 - FOOTBALL CONFERENCE
Step 2 - CONFERENCE NORTH - CONFERENCE SOUTH
Step 3 - NORTHERN PREMIER - SOUTHERN PREMIER - ISTHMIAN PREMIER
Step 4 - FEEDER LEAGUE - FEEDER LEAGUE - FEEDER LEAGUE - FEEDER LEAGUE
Step 5/6 - CURRENT LEVEL 3 LEAGUES (to become 12)
Step 7 - CURRENT LEVEL 4 LEAGUES

The final structure will see :
  • 22 clubs per league
  • Play offs at each step down to Level 4
  • Better linkages throughout the league structure
  • A semi national step between the FC and Level 2
  • Removes league within a league
  • More consistent rules, regulations, ground grading and promotion/relegation
  • The FA's aims & objectives


Tuesday, June 17, 2003

NEWS from around the EASTERN division ... (Yahoo Group easterndivision_info � Dr Martens Southern League Eastern Division)

Burgess Hill Town
Danny Bloor has been sacked as the manager of Burgess Hill Town just a couple of months after leading the club into the Dr Martens League as champions of the Sussex County League.

Bloor was Gary Croydon's number two but then stepped up to take over as manager when Croydon stepped down to move 'upstairs' at the end of the 2001/02 season after they had again won the Sussex County League title.

In his first season in charge, Bloor led The Hillians to the championship by a 21-point margin and they were then successful in gaining admittance to the Dr Martens Eastern Division.

The reasons for Bloor's dismissal haven't yet emerged, however, it is understood that the club are looking for someone with more managerial experience, and it is rumoured that former boss Gary Croydon could re-take the reins.

DR MARTENS CUP
The draw for the Dr Martens League Cup is as follows:-

Round One
Tonbridge v Fisher; Erith v Ashford; Sittingbourne v Chatham; Hastings v Folkestone; Dartford v Burgess Hill; Newport Iow v Salisbury; Eastleigh v Burnham; Bashley v Fleet; Yate v Clevedon; Team Bath v Cirencester; Swindon Supermarine v Taunton; Mangotsfield v Cinderford; Banbury v Kings Lynn; Rothwell v Histon; Stamford v Corby; Rugby v Ilkeston; Gresley v Shepshed; Bedworth v Atherstone; Stourport v Redditch; Gloucester v Solihull; Sutton Coldfield v Evesham; Bromsgrove v Halesowen.

nb. Premier Division clubs exempt until Rounds 2 and 3.


Tuesday, June 17, 2003

DR MARTENS LEAGUE CUP DRAW
Folkestone Invicta have been drawn away to Hastings Utd in the 1st round of the Dr Martens League Cup. The majority of Premier division sides have been given a bye to the third round.

The DM league fixtures should be available in the first week of July.

STRIPES SUMMER REVAMP/GROUND MAINTAINANCE - Progress Report

Work undertaken Saturday/Sunday (14/15 June) :

  • Work to remove weeds surrounding pitch continued.
  • All long grass cut LHS Stripes
  • Roof almost complete.
  • Crash barriers repainted.[Cricket ground end ]
  • Drains completed new man hole covers fitted.
  • Rear LHS Facia to Stripes sanded / undercoat.
  • Toilets Function Room.
  • Ladies/Gents Toilets work progressed .
  • New lighting installed..
Friday Ken Arnold/Iain Radford
Saturday Nigel Patey / Jon Prescott / Phil Orris & Mick Cork
Sunday Geoff Senior / Clive Arnold Albert Ingleston, Stuart Ingleston, Phil Jordon Pat & Trevor

Thanks to Bill Russell who is repairing doors.
Donations received this week : Doors and Paint

Work scheduled for this weekend (21/22 June)

Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs.

Sunday work on the toilets and function room.

Start times Saturday 8.00am and Sunday 9.00am

It is a long job in Stripes but work is beginning to show. If you can help out please join one of the teams. If you can only offer evenings we can give you a job. Together we can do it!

Clive


Sunday, June 15, 2003

THE SUNDAY PAPERS
Reported in todays Non-League Paper with an EXCLUSIVE tag,
FA Cup Costs Clubs �2M.

The paper reports on a dramatic u-turn by Soho Square that flies in the face of earlier assurances given to The Non-League Paper. It states that members of the FA's National Game section are known to be unhappy about the decision forced upon them by the FA's financial crisis. Figures revealed today by the NLP show that prize money for FA Cup success up to the third round proper will shrink from last season's � 12,653,000 to �10,698,250. But once the First Division and the Premiership clubs join in the prize monies are the same as previous years. Clubs reaching the second, third and fourth qualifying rounds last season earned �7,500, �10,000 and �20,000. That becomes �3,750, �5,000 and �10,000 this season. First round proper was �20,000, now �12,500. Second round proper was �30,000, now �15,000. However Trophy payments are up from �225,000 to �631,000 and the Vase fund from �153,000 to �350,000.

Ed ...This I suppose demonstrates that the Cash Crisis for the lower division league clubs and the non-league clubs will continue to bite whilst the fat cats at the top of the English game will continue to protect themselves. Can they not see that by failing to support the grass roots of the game (the body), the future for the head (Premiership clubs) is short. Once the head is removed from the body it can no longer sustain itself.


Wednesday, June 11, 2003

NEWS from around the EASTERN division ... (Yahoo Group easterndivision_info � Dr Martens Southern League Eastern Division)

Fisher Athletic - Teresa
Pleased to have signed Gary Abbott (38) from Welling Utd. Previously played for played for Brentford, Chesham United, Grays Athletic, Gravesend, Aldershot Town, Slough Town and Enfield.

Tonbridge Angels - Dan Couldridge (www.tonbridgeafc.co.uk)
Alan Walker has captured the signings of Jamie Turner and Andy Larkin, claiming they are the final pieces in his jigsaw.

6ft 4in goalkeeper Jamie Turner arrives from Gravesend, where he has been the second-choice keeper in their first season in the Conference. Turner is 23 and played over 30 games for the Fleet in their Ryman Premier Division championship-winning season. He also won the FA Vase with Deal Town.

Ex-Folkestone defender Andy Larkin has also signed for the club, Walks has been after this player for a long time and is delighted to make the signing. Larkin is expected to take over the left-sided position in Tonbridge's back three next year.

Hastings - Richard Daniells
Steve Lovell has been appointed as the new manager of Hastings United. The former Wales international was unveiled last night by the club's committee and beat 11 other applicants for the job.

Lovell has been coaching the under-17s at Gillingham and works for the Nationwide League club's Football in the Community programme. He is expected to be offered the same playing budget as caused former boss George Wakeling to resign two weeks ago.

He comes to the Pilot Field with a wealth of experience having played professionally for Crystal Palace, Millwall, Stockport, Bournemouth, Swansea and Gillingham as well as winning six caps for Wales. He had non-league experience at Sittingbourne and played for Hastings during the 1993/1994 season.


Tuesday, June 10, 2003

STRIPES SUMMER REVAMP/GROUND MAINTAINANCE - Progress Report

Work undertaken Saturday/Sunday (07/08 June) :

  • Completion of the painting of the dugouts.
  • Work to remove weeds surrounding pitch continued.
  • Completion of the repairs to the Cedar cladding LHS of Stripes
  • Pea shingle removed from the front of Stripes.
  • Toilets Function Room.
Ladies Toilets work progressed. Gents sanded for undercoat.

Friday Ken Arnold
Saturday Nigel Patey / Jon Prescott / Harry Lester & Mick Cork
Sunday Geoff Senior / Clive Arnold & Stuart Ingleston

Work scheduled for this weekend (14/15 June)

Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs.

Sunday work on the toilets and function room.

Start times Saturday 8.00am and Sunday 10.00am

Second hand doors have been donated to be collected soon. Donations of money [ buy a brick ] paint etc still accepted ... Buy a Brick to help pay for Stripes repairs ... We are looking for ideas for the colour scheme in Stripes and ideas.

Clive


Thursday, June 05, 2003

Prices Held for Friendlies - club gets tough on cheats

FRIENDLIES
The board are pleased to announce that admission prices have been held for the pre-season friendlies. Therefore they are as follows:-

ADULT: �8.00 (seated) or �7.00 (standing)
CHILD / OAP: �3.50 (seated) or �3.00 (standing)
FREE ADMISSION to the above Friendlies for BUY a BRICK donors.


For a full list of the games why not print out the Special Poster and display it prominently to encourage friends, family and colleagues.

WAR ON CHEATS
There is still concern about the cheats who regularly get into games without paying. Are there three more potential turnstile stewards out there, fans who can be firm but fair with those who just slip in free, or claim someone among the club officials has 'left them a pass' which isn't there!

In future anyone who claims free entry, will be asked to pay at the gate, and claim it back from the Chairman's office once inside the ground.

Any fan holding a season ticket who exploits it by handing it to another non ticket holder, will have that season ticket revoked. Plans are underway to look into season tickets bearing photo idents.

If you can help us to get tough with the cheats then talk to a club official, perhaps you can alert the stewards to gatecrashers. Only players,officials (and their guests) and ticket holders have any business being in the ground on a match day.


Tuesday, June 03, 2003

STRIPES SUMMER REVAMP/GROUND MAINTAINANCE - Progress Report

Work undertaken Saturday/Sunday (31 May/ 01 June) :

  • Completion of Dugouts , now re painted , benches stained and cleaned.
  • Work to remove weeds surrounding pitch continued.
  • Drains repairs continue
  • Cedar cladding now repaired and painted. LHS painted for the first time in years!
  • Weeds removed from LHS of Stripes.
  • Toilets Function Room.
  • Toilet seats replaced in Ladies / Gents
  • Doors all undercoated , Ladies.
Progress is slow but this is down to numbers of helpers.

Saturday Phil Orris / Clive Arnold /Geoff Senior / Nigel Patey / Dave Addison & Jon Prescott
Iain Radford for a electrcial survey.

Sunday Ken Arnold / C Arnold

Work Scheduled for this weekend (7/8 June)
Saturday work will continue on the gardening jobs.

Sunday work on the toilets and function room.

Start times Saturday 8.00am and Sunday 10.00am

We need two new or second hand doors for the gents. Donations of money [ buy a brick ] paint etc
Clive

REMINDER

Jun 9, 2003 (7.30pm) SHAREHOLDERS meeting at Stripes.

May 2003 News click here