Folkestone Invicta boss Andy Drury on 3-2 Isthmian Premier derby victory at Dover Athletic

Boss Andy Drury has described Folkestone’s derby at Dover as a great advert for Isthmian Premier football.

Invicta edged the long-awaited game at their rivals’ ground 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Striker Dan Smith struck early at Crabble and Tom Derry doubled their lead, after it appeared the goal initially was going to be ruled out, only for Whites forward George Nikaj to pull one back.

But Dover’s task became much harder as Harrison Pont was sent off and Smith completed his double.

Substitute Jaiden Drakes-Thomas then gave Whites late hope but Invicta held on in front of a huge crowd of 2,495 as Drury’s troops’ experience shone through, building on their campaign-opening 1-1 home weekend draw with Carshalton.

“I’m extremely delighted,” said Drury.

“I think the boys put a lot of effort into that. The fans were brilliant, they really deserved those three points today.

Report: Dover 2-3 Folkestone

“The game as a whole pretty much had everything - five goals, a sending off and lots of chances for either side - so it was kind of a great advert for the league.

“Obviously, I’m proud of my players and proud of my club - Jake (Leberl, Dover’s manager) can be the same. He’s a good bloke and got a lot of good performances out of his team again after their result on Saturday.

“It was two good teams at this level playing against each other and we have come out on top - I think deservedly so on the balance of play.”

After kick-off had been delayed until 8.05pm due to the big crowd still flocking in the ground, Smith gave Folkestone the lead inside just 70 seconds and also headed home a second-half goal.

Drury revealed: “I’ve liked Dan for the last four or five years. I’ve tried to sign him three times - he’s turned me down twice!

“We’r