Dartford assistant manager Roland Edge reacts to 2-2 Isthmian Premier derby draw at champions-elect Folkestone Invicta

Assistant manager Roland Edge was thrilled at how Dartford’s players made Isthmian Premier champions-elect Folkestone earn their respect in an eventful derby on Saturday.

It finished honours even as the play-off chasing Darts were twice pegged back in a 2-2 draw in front of an attendance of 1,488 at Cheriton Road.

“It was a fantastic point,” said Edge. “You know, when you come here, you’re going to be up against it.

“They have got experience everywhere - experience that has played a league, two leagues or three leagues above - so I was really pleased with our lads.

“We told them the importance of not really respecting them - make them earn that respect. I felt, especially in the first half, we did that. I thought we went at them.

“The ball was flying about and it was quite lively but, in moments, we calmed it down and created good chances. Deservedly, we went in 2-1 ahead.

“In the second half, I think they came out with a little bit more focus and a little bit more control of the ball, and that’s what got them back into the game.

“The beauty is they weren’t content with the one point, which is nice.

“I know we only leave with one point but the boys gave their all to try and leave with three, it just wasn’t to be, but it was still a fantastic performance.”

Forward Callum Jones got both of Dartford’s goals in the first half, reacting quickest after ex-Invicta striker Dan Smith’s shot had been saved by home keeper Ted Collins, before he emphatically drilled home a left-wing centre to promptly restore their advantage.

“Callum is a brilliant lad,” Edge said of the 26-year-old, who has taken his tally to seven goals this season.

“Honestly, he works so hard. Quite often, through how hard he works, he doesn’t get himself into