Folkestone Invicta joint-head coach Roland Edge says first summer in management has been an eye-opening experience

A first summer in management is proving an eye-opening experience for Folkestone Invicta's joint-head coach Roland Edge.

There appears to be a busy close-season ahead at Cheriton Road, with Edge putting his own stamp on the squad alongside joint-boss Micheal Everitt.

Edge said: “Obviously, myself and Mev have got mates that are managers as well.

“They all have different views, some say ‘relax’ and some say ‘get it done early’. It’s quite an eye-opener.

“As much as you might like the job, you don’t want 12 months a year doing it.

“It’s tough and quite rewarding at times.

“It is what it is. I guess we’re all in the same boat.

“I do think it gets tougher, as the years go on.

“I’m enjoying it in a weird way - but ask me again in two weeks’ time!”

Overall, five players have left Invicta with legendary right-back Josh Vincent following versatile defender Matt Newman to Southern Counties East Premier Division Faversham.

On Vincent’s exit, Edge said: “It’s a big blow, really.

“I like JV as a player and as a person. Fair play to him.

“He was part of that young bunch, which kind of saved Folkestone.

“If you asked some people if he was the cream of the crop then, they probably would have said not. But, by the end, he certainly was the cream of the crop.

“But every player at a certain point decides they want a new challenge and I wish him all the best.”

Others who have moved on to pastures new include brothers Robbie and Ronnie Dolan, along with midfielder James Rogers, who missed Folkestone’s final Isthmian Premier game at Bognor to help Lydd earn promotion through the play-off Final to the Southern Counties East Premier Division.

Edge said: “Ronnie has been a great servant for the club. Robbie and Rogo came in last year and they