by Andrew Gidley

Neil Cugley is still refusing to talk up Folkestone Invicta’s Ryman League Division 1 South play-off chances, admitting he is just happy to be in contention.

Tuesday night’s 2-1 defeat to a late goal at Merstham, ended a six-match unbeaten run, stretching back to mid-January but still leaves Invicta eighth, two points off fifth spot.

Cugley said: "Six weeks ago we were looking at the other end of the table, wondering if we were still going to be in the league, so I am delighted to be where we are.

"All credit to the boys for the tremendous way they have turned it around which is beyond belief.

"It probably ranks as one of the best achievements in my managerial career, but it is still too early to talk about the play-offs because we have got a lot of tough games coming up in the next few weeks, beginning at Burgess Hill on Saturday."

Cugley had mixed feelings after the game at Merstham. He was disappointed with the result in a game they dominated for large parts but pleased that Josh Burchell came off the bench and get the equaliser.

He said: "It was devastating to come home with nothing, having been the better side. Even their manager said so."

Burchell might have joined rivals Hythe on loan a few weeks ago, with James Everitt returning to Cheriton Road.

Cugley said: "Both parties agreed but it didn’t happen. I would be happy just to see Josh back playing the way we know he can."

Striker Dane Luchford is rated doubtful for the weekend after going off in midweek with a tight hamstring.