By Kevin Redsull

Folkestone manager Neil Cugley says his side’s pre-season preparations will have to "step up a gear" against their next three opponents.

Following Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Kent Hurlimann League side Lordswood, Folkestone’s next three opponents are all against Ryman League Premier Division outfits.

They play away against Hastings United on Saturday, Margate at home next Tuesday and Billericay at the Buzzlines Stadium on Friday, August 12.

Invicta’s friendlies so far have all been fairly low-key affairs but that will change from Saturday, especially against a Margate side who have been recruiting heavily under new manager Chris Kinnear.

Cugley (pictured) said: "I’m pleased with the way pre-season has gone so far but we’ve got harder-looking games coming up. It will be time for the boys to step up a gear."

He is still casting his eye over a couple of trialists but expects two others, Scott Punton and Adam Hooper, to find other clubs after deciding that the pair would not be part of his first team squad.