Craig Tucker

Folkestone Invicta host promotion-chasing Chelmsford City at Cheriton Road after drawing 1-1 with Maidstone United. Manager Jay Saunders says National League South is a significant step up from Step 3 football, particularly because of opponents’ fitness, sharpness and full-time status, but believes his part-time side will improve. Folkestone are dealing with a thin squad and injuries, including a specialist assessment for summer signing John Akinde, and may explore the loan market.

Margate assistant manager Matt Longhurst believes Kai Garande can make another 100 appearances after the left-back reached his century in Margate's 2-1 win over Crowborough. Longhurst praised Garande's attitude and confirmed he has signed a contract after being the only survivor from last season's squad. Margate are preparing for an FA Cup preliminary-round tie against Peacehaven & Telscombe, while Longhurst criticised the officiating against Crowborough, including Frankie-Jay Moralee's red card and a controversial five-second goal-kick decision that led to Crowborough's equaliser. Margate subsequently beat Sheppey 1-0 to take seven points from their first three matches.

Sittingbourne manager Reece Prestedge says his side will not underestimate Erith & Belvedere in Saturday’s FA Cup preliminary-round tie, despite being favourites. He wants the Brickies to make a strong cup run while balancing their league ambitions. Sittingbourne recently drew 1–1 with Cray Valley through Jordy Mongoy’s stoppage-time equaliser and then beat Whitstable 2–1, with Harvey Smith scoring twice. Prestedge also highlighted the squad’s character and competition for places.

Maidstone United and Folkestone Invicta drew 1-1 at the Gallagher Stadium in an entertaining National League South derby attended by 2,823 people. Maidstone hit the woodwork twice and created several strong chances in a goalless first half, but Folkestone took the lead in the 55th minute when Adam Lovatt finished after Joe Pigott’s cross was cleared. Maidstone equalised three minutes later through Ken Charles, who turned in Frankie Hvid’s effort. Maidstone continued to press and appealed unsuccessfully for a late penalty, while Folkestone settled for a point.

Welling United recovered from a 4-1 defeat at Leatherhead by beating Stanway Rovers 4-0 at home, with Demaray Anyadike scoring twice and Nahum Melvin-Lambert and Ade Azeez also finding the net. Manager Ryan Maxwell described the Leatherhead result as a freakish first half, noting that four goals came from only five attempts, and praised his team’s response. Welling now travel to unbeaten local rivals Dartford, who have won their opening three Isthmian Premier games, for a highly anticipated derby at Princes Park.

Maidstone United beat Walton & Hersham 3-0 to record their first National League South points of the season. Manager Craig Fagan singled out new loanee Alex Stepien-Iwumene for one of the best debuts he has seen at the club, praising his energy, tackling and willingness to demand the ball. Leone Gravata, Riley Court and Ryan Hanson scored as Maidstone produced a stronger performance and kept a clean sheet, while Fagan also credited the club’s relationship with Bromley and the coaching work of his staff in developing the young squad.

Dartford preserved their 100% Isthmian Premier record with a 2-1 win at Malton & Tiptree, Ben Swift scoring in the 85th minute. Chatham Town and Welling United also recorded home wins, while Ramsgate and Cray Wanderers were beaten. In the Isthmian South East, Whitstable Town lost 4-0 at Peacehaven & Telscombe after captain Harrison Pont was sent off in the opening minute. Sheppey United, Margate and Ashford United won, while Sittingbourne, Sevenoaks Town, Faversham Town and Punjab United drew. Herne Bay won an FA Trophy tie after a comeback, and Deal Town progressed on penalties.

Maidstone United secured their first National League South points with a 3-0 win away to Walton & Hersham. Leone Gravata opened the scoring in the 20th minute, Riley Court doubled the lead before half-time, and Ryan Hanson added a third shortly after the break. Maidstone controlled the match for long periods, while Walton, adjusting to Step 2 football, created little and failed to mount a late comeback.

Maidstone United defender Frankie Hvid has returned to English football after spells with Glentoran in Northern Ireland and NK Kustosija in Croatia. The former Millwall youngster, who helped Kustosija win promotion to Croatia’s second tier, said English football is more physical than the technical style he experienced abroad. Hvid made his Maidstone debut in a 2-1 defeat by Farnborough, producing a goal-line clearance and assisting Ken Charles, and the 21-year-old is now targeting a first league win against Walton & Hersham.

Tonbridge Angels manager Alan Dunne says his side can approach their first home match against National League South favourites Torquay United without pressure after beating Braintree 4-0. Jephte Tanga scored twice, with Lamar Reynolds and Frankie Baker also on target. New captain Sam Corne is expected to miss the Torquay match while recovering from a grade-two calf tear, although vice-captain Jordon Thompson could return from a hamstring problem. Dunne also reiterated that Braintree's rock-hard Cressing Road pitch was unsafe, despite Tonbridge's convincing win. He cautioned against overreacting to one result and said the club's primary aim remains avoiding relegation.

Maidstone United manager Craig Fagan says he will remain composed after beginning his tenure with a 2-1 home defeat to Farnborough in National League South. With a small squad and limited budget, Fagan intends to continue giving opportunities to under-23 and teenage players, whom he says he trusts. He is also taking care with the returns of injured defenders Dermi Lusala and striker Mark Boruk. Maidstone next visit Walton & Hersham before hosting Folkestone, while Fagan praised the squad's willingness to discuss improvements immediately after matches.

Sittingbourne began its Isthmian South East campaign with a 2-1 win at AFC Croydon, secured by Harvey Smith’s injury-time goal after Khavarn Williams had opened the scoring and Brandon Pierrick equalised. Manager Reece Prestedge believes the victory was deserved and praised his side’s effort, while acknowledging that they need to improve their possession play. He welcomed a demanding opening schedule, with home and away fixtures against relegated Cray Valley and promoted Whitstable Town among the next challenges.

Sheppey United joint-manager Ian Batten says the club will target an Isthmian South East play-off place after the league expanded the play-off field from four teams to six. The club has substantially rebuilt its squad after narrowly avoiding relegation last season and may add further players. Sheppey begin their league campaign away to newly promoted Horley Town before hosting Margate, while Batten and his brother George prepare for their first full season in charge with coaching support from Steve Aldridge and Jamie Willis.

Hythe Town began their Southern Counties East Division 1 campaign with a 1-0 away win over Halls, secured by Jake Embery’s 91st-minute penalty on his return to the club. Manager Andy Crush said he could not pass up the opportunity to sign Embery from Bearsted after the striker expressed interest in joining Hythe’s project. Crush praised Embery’s resilience, the squad’s togetherness and the travelling supporters. Hythe will play their early home fixtures away from Reachfields while a 3G pitch is installed, and next visit Welling Town.

Tonbridge Angels opened their National League South season with a 4-0 win at Braintree Town, with goals from Lamar Reynolds, Jephte Tanga and Frankie Baker. Despite calling the result a “perfect start,” manager Alan Dunne said the Cressing Road pitch was unsafe and that the match should not have gone ahead. He said the players nevertheless followed instructions to play without excuses and produced a strong performance.

Maidstone United began their National League South campaign with a 2–1 home defeat to Farnborough, ending Craig Fagan’s first match as manager unsuccessfully. Farnborough took the lead through Mason Bloomfield just before half-time and doubled it early in the second half when Michael Reindorf finished Sam Okoye’s pass. Ken Charles scored on his debut in the 68th minute, but Farnborough goalkeeper Lucas Thomas made several important saves to preserve the visitors’ victory. Attendance was 2,201.

Ashford United have added Dutch defender Jordy Luchies and Gillingham loanee Zac Whitelock to a squad already strengthened by Elliott Romain, Will Dempsey and De Niro Pinto. Manager Craig Stone made the moves to provide depth amid pre-season injuries ahead of the FA Cup extra preliminary-round tie at Redhill and the league opener at Steyning. Stone highlighted Romain’s versatility, work rate and experience, while praising Luchies’s technical ability and describing Whitelock as valuable forward cover.

Kennington manager Dan Scorer says his side's resilient 2-2 comeback draw against SE Dons has provided strong preparation for Saturday's FA Cup extra preliminary round tie against Sheppey United. Alfee Wincott and Ryan Philpott scored the late goals that secured the point. Captain Tom Scorer and Brad Walledge are expected to return, while Joe Fisher will be assessed after an ankle injury. Sheppey, who play in the division above, have rebuilt their squad after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.

Tonbridge Angels manager Alan Dunne is targeting stability rather than an expensive promotion push during his first full season in charge. After guiding the club to 14th place last season, Dunne has overseen a series of promising signings, including former Maidstone captain Sam Corne, while shifting training from evenings to mornings as the club takes gradual steps toward a hybrid and eventually full-time model. He stresses that Tonbridge remain a small, part-time club with a limited budget and will not gamble financially on success. A small squad, reliance on the loan market and academy players, and an injury to Bradley Williams are key challenges ahead of the National League South campaign.

Maidstone United manager Craig Fagan is eager to begin his first competitive season in charge after guiding the club to seven friendly wins and 27 pre-season goals. He aims to establish an attacking, energetic style and mount a promotion challenge despite Maidstone having less financial power than several National League South rivals. Fagan has rebuilt the squad around versatile players who are committed to the club, working alongside new assistant Rob Tuvey after significant summer turnover. He also expects the atmosphere at the Gallagher Stadium to intensify for the opening match against Farnborough and believes the supporters’ expectations can help drive the team.

Maidstone United winger Nana Boateng has signed after impressing during a four-week trial following his departure from Sutton United. The 23-year-old previously came through Millwall’s academy and made his senior debut against Premier League side Crystal Palace in the 2022 FA Cup, an experience that strengthened his ambition to play in the EFL or Premier League. Boateng says he has settled quickly at Maidstone, appreciates manager Craig Fagan’s attacking approach and aims to entertain supporters while contributing end product. After scoring in the club’s 3-0 pre-season win at Chatham, he expressed confidence ahead of Maidstone’s National League South opener against Farnborough.

Quested, the most successful club in Medway Sunday League history, has withdrawn from the competition and folded after the death of its long-serving manager Steve Lester at age 65. Lester led the team for more than 30 years, including a decade-long unbeaten league run and four Kent Cup victories. His son Harry said the emotional impact of continuing without his father made him step away, and the players agreed to end the club rather than carry on without him. Former Gillingham striker Danny Kedwell and other mourners paid tribute to Lester’s character, support for players and lasting influence on Medway football.

Sittingbourne are targeting promotion from the Isthmian South East after three consecutive play-off campaigns that produced two semi-final appearances and a final. Manager Reece Prestedge wants the team to challenge near the top of the table, while acknowledging the expanded play-off format creates both opportunities and fairness concerns. Prestedge has built a new-look squad with assistant Joe Anderson, retaining several key players and adding recruits who fit his approach. The season begins away at AFC Croydon, who eliminated Sittingbourne in last season’s play-off semi-final, while strong pre-season performances against higher-league opposition have left Prestedge with a competitive selection decision.

Sheppey United begin their 2026–27 season away to Kennington in the FA Cup extra preliminary round. Joint-manager Ian Batten is drawing inspiration from the club’s memorable 2023 run to the first round, including a shock lead against Walsall, while acknowledging that another deep run is unlikely to be replicated easily. Sheppey are taking the FA Cup and other cup competitions seriously after rebuilding their squad, and have emphasized fitness following a difficult Isthmian South East campaign. Kennington are expected to provide a tough test after impressing in their opening league match.

Eighteen-year-old goalkeeper Lucas Brookman has signed a first-team contract with Maidstone United after progressing through every age group at the club since joining at five. He will join Craig Fagan’s National League South squad as understudy to Lenny Holden. Brookman made 18 appearances during the under-23s’ title-winning season and previously helped Maidstone’s youth teams win multiple league and cup competitions.

Maidstone United manager Craig Fagan says he is not deterred by the negative perception of three-man or five-man defensive systems following England’s late World Cup defeat to Argentina. He explains that Maidstone would use three central defenders to support an attacking setup with wing-backs, two forwards and a number 10, rather than to defend deep. Fagan says tactical decisions will depend on the opposition, player fitness and form, although the team has played its best pre-season football in a 4-3-3 formation.

Maidstone United striker Ken Charles has scored six goals in six pre-season matches since joining from Welsh champions The New Saints. Manager Craig Fagan praised Charles’s finishing, work rate, hold-up play and example to younger players, while hoping his form continues into the National League South season. Fagan also outlined a direct, forward-minded style that retains the team’s compact defensive habits from George Elokobi’s tenure, although Maidstone still needs to eliminate minor defensive mistakes.

Kennington manager Dan Scorer welcomes a demanding start to the Southern Counties East Premier Division season, beginning with a home match against newly promoted SE Dons before FA Cup and FA Vase ties against Sheppey and Guildford. He believes the division has become more competitive, with no obvious favourite and clubs investing heavily in promotion bids. Kennington have retained most of last season’s squad, added Sam Brown, Charlie Smith and Jake Adams, and may recruit further to improve squad depth.

Richie Hamill’s attempt to win a contract with Welling United has been delayed by a knee injury sustained during pre-season. Manager Ryan Maxwell said Hamill would be supported while he regains fitness before his future is reassessed. Welling’s recent friendlies included a 3-1 win over Punjab United and a 5-1 defeat by Buckhurst Hill, with Maxwell considering several young trialists for upcoming matches against Billericay and Folkestone before the Isthmian Premier opener against Whitehawk on August 8.

Lenny Holden aims to secure the No.1 goalkeeper spot at Maidstone United after gaining confidence from a strong end to last season and signing a new deal under manager Craig Fagan. With key defensive players retained and new additions joining, Holden highlights the value of continuity and positive early pre-season performances. The club has yet to confirm a second goalkeeper, but Holden welcomes competition as he prepares for the upcoming campaign.

Kennington secured the inaugural Arran McManus Memorial Trophy with a 3-2 win over Ashford United, highlighted by an inspirational pre-match team talk from 13-year-old Ares McManus, son of the late coach Arran McManus. The emotional occasion featured players recreating a celebration Ares once shared with his father. Kennington rallied from behind with goals from Brad Walledge, Fin Dent and a dramatic injury-time winner from Ryan Philpott. Manager Dan Scorer praised Ares’ composure and the significance of the moment for the squad. The annual fixture honours Arran McManus, who died in a road collision the previous year, and the match delivered several memorable moments for the club and community.

Ashford United strengthened ties with Charlton Athletic after a pre-season friendly, positioning themselves as a potential destination for young Addicks players needing loan experience. Manager Craig Stone discussed future opportunities with Charlton staff and aims to add a few players to his squad while continuing to integrate academy talent. Recent matches included a win for Charlton and a draw against Ramsgate, with Ashford preparing for upcoming fixtures and working to maintain squad depth ahead of the season.

Frankie Baker joined Tonbridge Angels after Millwall released him due to the club’s push for Premier League promotion limiting opportunities for young players. Manager Alan Dunne believes Baker has the talent and mentality to return to the Football League and intends to work closely with him to support that goal. Baker impressed during his loan spell, and a strong season with Tonbridge could attract attention from higher-league scouts. Tonbridge began pre-season with a win over Biggleswade before losing to Sutton United, with upcoming fixtures against Cray Wanderers and Sittingbourne.

Alan Dunne reflects on Harry Kane’s humble personality and impressive finishing during the striker’s loan spell at Millwall, noting that few foresaw his rise to become England’s record goalscorer. Dunne recalls memorable moments from their time together and Kane’s continued development into a leading figure for club and country as England prepares to face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals.

Tonbridge Angels manager Alan Dunne has strengthened his squad despite working with one of the smallest budgets in National League South, persuading several new signings to accept lower wages in exchange for development opportunities. New arrivals include Sam Corne, Jephte Tanga, Lamar Reynolds, Harvey Lintott and Harry Gardner, alongside permanent deals for Ethan Sutcliffe and Frankie Baker. Dunne plans to run a smaller but higher‑quality squad supported by loan players, while grooming Corne as a potential captain. The club has shifted to daytime training but remains part‑time as it works toward a future hybrid or full‑time setup. Pre‑season fixtures begin with Biggleswade followed by Sutton United.

Maidstone United manager Craig Fagan plans to add three or four more players to his rebuilt squad ahead of the National League South season, emphasizing the need to recruit individuals who fit the club’s culture and style. Having already made eight summer signings, he aims for a squad of around 20, including under-23 players, to support effective training and cover for injuries. Early pre-season matches produced encouraging performances, and Fagan is focused on improving cohesion as the new group prepares for the start of the campaign.

Lloyd Hume expresses concerns about the fairness of the expanded Isthmian League play-off format, arguing that allowing seventh‑place teams to potentially eliminate second‑place sides in single matches is inequitable. While the change could help Ashford United reach the play-offs, Hume emphasizes long-term improvement and squad stability over promotion pressure. Ashford retained most of their squad, added a few targeted signings, and may still strengthen further within budget constraints. Planned terracing upgrades have been delayed due to required resubmissions, though the club remains committed to completing the work. Pre-season preparations include draws against Hollands & Blair and AFC Greenwich Borough, with upcoming fixtures against Ramsgate and Charlton Athletic’s youth side.

Sittingbourne manager Reece Prestedge plans to use pre-season matches to test formations and evaluate players, including several trialists. Early friendlies against lower-division opponents will help assess fitness and structure ahead of the Isthmian South East season beginning August 8. Squad strengthening remains ongoing, with potential additions expected soon. The club faces away draws in both the FA Cup preliminary round and the FA Trophy first qualifying round.

Ryan Maxwell is giving Richie Hamill the chance to earn a contract with Welling United, praising his technical abilities and past performances under his management. Hamill impressed in a 5-1 pre-season win over Erith & Belvedere, where several players contributed to the scoring. Maxwell emphasised work rate, team cohesion and the importance of allowing attacking players freedom to express themselves as Welling prepare for a challenging friendly against Maidstone United.

Sixteen‑year‑old Saha Kapilasena of Maidstone Tennis Academy has been selected for Sri Lanka’s Davis Cup squad after winning a series of trial matches and will compete in the Asia/Oceania Group IV in Colombo. Coaches highlight his aggressive, left‑handed playing style and strong commitment. Maidstone Tennis Academy also reports wider success across age groups, including strong Regional League performance, national‑level juniors Zac Hartono and Gabby Lavrik, and achievements among senior players, reflecting a supportive and long‑standing club environment.

Welling United manager Ryan Maxwell expresses strong confidence ahead of the upcoming Isthmian Premier season, crediting squad stability and last season’s positive finish for building momentum. With most players retained and several additions made, he highlights the team’s improved form, growing belief and adherence to key principles as foundations for a potential top-six challenge.

Kent Phoenix Youth American Football Club marks its 10th anniversary after a decade of growth that has produced national and international-level players. The club’s kitted arm, South East Legion, saw Oliver Zarembski become its first professional athlete and Riley Watt secure a place at the NFL Academy. Founders describe the challenges and successes of building a youth-focused programme that has become a model replicated across the country. Current and former coaches highlight milestones including league titles, player development and resilience through the pandemic. New chair Michelle Carr reflects on the club’s origins and ongoing expansion as it prepares for future celebrations and continued growth.

Tonbridge Angels completed the permanent signing of defender Ethan Sutcliffe after his release from AFC Wimbledon, following 93 loan appearances across three spells. Manager Alan Dunne praised Sutcliffe’s development and potential to play at higher levels, noting the club overcame competition to secure him. Sutcliffe said he felt valued by the club and its supporters and turned down interest from sides in higher leagues before committing to Tonbridge.

Tonbridge Angels have signed winger Jephte Tanga after he rejected a new contract at Maidstone United, becoming the club’s third former Stones player to join this summer. Tanga’s move requires a fee due to his age and contract offer status, following a season in which he recorded seven goals and ten assists. Manager Alan Dunne praised Tanga’s versatility and impact, while the player described his style as energetic and disruptive, aiming to bring creativity to Longmead.

Winger Leone Gravata has joined Maidstone United after his release from newly promoted York City, following a successful loan spell at Horsham where he was named supporters’ player of the year. With significant experience in National League South, he looks forward to playing in front of Maidstone’s vocal supporters and strengthening the squad for the upcoming season.

Ben Greenhalgh has secured nearly all his intended summer signings for Dartford, adding several attacking players including Lorenzo Duncan, Luca Botti, Max Fiddes and Louie Atkins to replace departing goal scorers. He highlights strong squad depth, a positive pre-season atmosphere and confidence in the new recruits’ ability to step up. Greenhalgh expects to contribute significantly on the pitch while sharing managerial duties effectively with assistant Adam Flanagan.

Whitstable Town manager Lee Martin is overseeing a complete squad rebuild after replacing Jamie Coyle, following the departure of most of last season’s title-winning players to Margate. The ex-Welling and Ramsgate boss has used the opportunity to assemble his own squad and praises the club’s trust and autonomy in recruitment. New signings include experienced players such as Ian Gayle and Kweku Lucan, with others joining despite higher offers elsewhere. Martin says the team remains a few additions short but has strengthened its core and now aims to quickly build cohesion. Pre-season begins with a focus on tactical flexibility to compete in the Isthmian South East League.

Leo Hamblin expects new Maidstone United manager Craig Fagan to adjust his relationship with players after moving up from assistant but hopes he maintains his humour. Hamblin expresses confidence in Fagan’s leadership and in the squad’s ability to compete despite a reduced budget, noting that financial strength does not guarantee success in the division. Maidstone retain a core group of players from last season’s near–play‑off campaign, and Hamblin anticipates playing a more advanced role as the team aims for a more open and attacking style under Fagan.

Manager Steve Watt expresses enthusiasm about returning to management at Faversham Town, highlighting strong summer recruitment, the club’s ambition for promotion, and a focus on team spirit and togetherness. With a strengthened squad and backing from chairman Gary Smart, Watt aims to build a competitive side capable of challenging for the Isthmian South East title, stressing the importance of depth, mentality and unity throughout the season.

Tonbridge Angels have signed 25-year-old midfielder Harry Gardner from Hampton & Richmond Borough. Manager Alan Dunne highlighted Gardner’s creativity, attacking intent and strong delivery, calling him a valuable addition. Gardner said the club’s ambition and positive atmosphere attracted him, and he aims to bring energy, forward drive and goals to the team.

Craig Stone consulted former manager Steve McKimm before signing winger Michael Ademiluyi for Ashford United, valuing McKimm’s experience and endorsement of the player’s character and ability. Ademiluyi becomes the club’s third summer addition alongside Archie Johnson and Jordan Gillmore as Stone strengthens key positions ahead of pre-season.

Margate assistant manager Matt Longhurst aims to secure promotion in his first season by bringing the successful culture he developed at Whitstable, where he achieved multiple trophies and strong league performance. Several Whitstable players have joined him, and he expects their experience at higher levels to support Margate’s push for a return to Step 3. Longhurst emphasises maintaining a winning environment, improving players, and strengthening community engagement, drawing parallels with the successful youth and fan involvement seen at Ramsgate and Whitstable. He believes Margate has significant potential for growth on and off the pitch.

Reece Prestedge plans to outline expectations as Sittingbourne begin pre-season training, emphasizing early standards and integrating returning players, newcomers and trialists. Goalkeeper coach Owen Kallmeier has joined the staff, while veteran forward Derek Asamoah has departed after contract discussions ended. Groundsman Shane Coveney’s work has produced a highly regarded playing surface ahead of the upcoming Isthmian South East season.

Jay Saunders expresses confidence that Folkestone Invicta can compete in National League South after strengthening their title‑winning squad, while cautioning supporters about the league’s tougher standards and the need to manage expectations. He highlights the improved quality of new signings, increased player interest in joining the club, and a strong foundation both on and off the pitch, noting that the team aims first for safety before assessing its potential to challenge higher in the standings.