At the start of the 2025-26 campaign, expectations around Folkestone were muted. Pre-season betting markets saw them as long shots -priced at approximately 34/1 to win the Isthmian Premier Division - a reflection of how most pundits viewed their chances of mounting a serious title challenge. Despite the lack of early confidence, the season that unfolded quickly proved doubters wrong as Invicta began to build one of the most impressive campaigns in the league.
What has set Folkestone apart this season is not just isolated big results, but week-in, week-out consistency against a wide range of opponents. Folkestone have scored 82 goals, the most in the division -ahead of runners-up Aveley on 76 - and they also boast the best defensive record, conceding just 26 goals. They also sit 12 points clear with just eight games to go.
Even when they’ve dropped points ,for example a 0–1 loss to Aveley in January -their strong underlying performance statistics suggest that they’re still dictating much of the play over a full season.
Across all competitions, this level of consistency -especially in key wins against promotion rivals -has been central to their status as the side to beat.
Folkestone’s campaign hasn’t been without drama or standout moments. Early in the season, they went on a run of results that began putting pressure on rivals, taking the lead in the table and refusing to relinquish it for long stretches. From the autumn into the winter, they collected a run of victories that saw them extend leads and handle direct challengers with poise.
Beyond the stats, many games have highlighted their tactical balance- capable of grinding out narrow wins while also delivering emphatic performances when needed. Their capacity to manage games both at home and away, often against sides expected to challenge for top positions, shows a clear evolution under their current management.
Adam Yusuff, 31, has been a key player since resigning for Folkestone, scoring nine goals this campaign. On top of this, Jake Hutchinson and Joe Pigott are amongst the top scorers in the league.
Hutchinson, 23, is joint top with Daniel Ogunleye of Brentwood, with 18 goals. The Sussex-born striker signed after a spell with Enfield. Previous to this, he had played for Colchester and had loan spell at Tonbridge Angels, Eastbourne Borough and Aldershot. His height and link up play make him the perfect partner for Piggot.
The experienced poacher scored an extra time equaliser at Wembley for Southend in League Two so had goalscoring prowess at a higher level. He is also a modern day AFC Wimbledon legend, scoring over 50 goals in 150+ appearances, before securing a big move to Ipswich in 2021.
Now plying his trade at Step 3, Pigott has been amongst one of the best strikers in the league.
Folkestone’s dominance isn’t just about results - there’s evidence of a broader strategy. Earlier in the season, the club strengthened its squad with targeted signings, bringing in experienced players capable of performing at this level and blending with young talent ready to make their mark. This blend has given Invicta the flexibility to adapt to different opponents and maintain intensity over a long campaign.
Such strategy has helped create a squad that seems well-balanced not just for immediate success, but for seasons beyond this.
As the 2025–26 season enters its final weeks, Folkestone Invicta’s position at the top of the Isthmian Premier Division stands as a testament to what can happen when pre-season underestimation meets on-field grit and consistency. From outsiders at 34/1 to real title favourites, their story this year has been one of steady progress, key performances by stars and squad players alike, and results that have mattered most when the pressure was highest.
Under Jay Saunders, Folkestone are well versed to challenge up the top of the National League South. Saunders has experience outperforming expectations with clubs like Tonbridge Angels and Maidstone, so next season should be no different.
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