We're 100% behind the manager, says Folkestone director

FOLKESTONE INVICTA company director Mr Lynn Woods has told disgruntled supporters to get behind manager Neil Cugley and his team next season, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Cheriton Road club lost their Ryman Premier League status on the last day of the season, going down 1-0 to Kent rivals Maidstone United in the winner-takes-all home clash.

Mr Woods, issuing a statement on www.folkestoneinvicta.co.uk, explained that the club are 100% behind Cugley as the club prepare for life in the Ryman League Division One South.

“Perhaps it will help for me to comment impartially as the one director who was unable to attend the meeting at which Neil’s future was decided,” said Mr Woods.

“The brief to me at a subsequent gathering was that whilst there were, quite properly, mixed opinions about the managerial position, the prevailing view in conclusion was that Neil warranted the opportunity to reverse the disappointment of this year’s relegation and should be given that chance.

“It was significant that Neil himself had convinced the Board of his desire, and of his recognition of where certain things needed to be changed and developed.

“It was also crucial that Neil had won Gordon (Wallis’) support and that it was therefore the chairman who led the argument at that meeting in favour of the status quo.

“The Board comprises a group of people whose heart is in Folkestone Invicta and who all want nothing but the best for it and its supporters.”

Mr Woods, meanwhile, responded to rumours on internet fans’ forums, and was quick to point out the facts.

He said: “It isn’t proper to parade their deliberations in open forum, but neither is it proper to let false assertions about their commitment and leadership to stand uncorrected.

“So here’s the facts. The vote on the night was 6-0 in favour of confirming Neil’s continuing appointment. No votes against, no conditions, no abstentions. And on the basis of what has since been explained to me, you can call that 7-0.

“All that matters now in the common interest is that we all park any worries or reservations, get behind the Manager and the team, and support them in delivering the more attractive and expansive style of football that will bring people back to Cheriton Road to the Buzzlines Stadium not just out of a sense of loyalty, but because they can expect to see something worth watching from the home side. And on a decent playing surface which is where I am continuing to focus my efforts."

Folkestone Invicta are holding their next shareholders meeting on Tuesday, 17^th June 2008 - the format being slightly different from previous years.

There will be an AGM at 7pm, followed by the general meeting at 7:30pm.

The AGM is strictly for shareholders only. The general meeting is open to shareholders and those who intend to become shareholders prior to the commencement of next season only.

It is intended to stop having 'open' meetings as this erodes any benefit that can be derived from being a shareholder.

Meanwhile, the club are looking for a kit man, grounds man and a boardroom steward and all applications should be made in writing to the chairman at the club or by emailing aingleston@aol.com.

Quotes courtesy of www.folkestoneinvicta.co.uk