Folkestone Invicta vs Charlton Athletic U21

Pigott's opener broke the deadlock after a competitive opening period, forcing Charlton's young side to push forward. Cosgrave's second goal before half-time effectively sealed the result, leaving the visitors with a two-goal mountain to climb in the second half. Invicta's defence held firm to ensure the clean sheet.

Joe Pigott — The experienced striker, who came through the academy system at clubs including Charlton and AFC Wimbledon, showed his quality with the opening goal. Saunders had noted pre-match that Pigott and Harvey Kedwell "came through that sort of system" referencing the Charlton academy pathway.

Aaron Cosgrave — Doubled Invicta's lead with a first-half strike, continuing a positive pre-season campaign for the forward.

Jay Saunders — Named player of the match in the absence of an official award. His side's defensive organisation limited Charlton to few clear chances in a goalless second half.

The 2-0 scoreline at full-time reflected a clinical first half from Invicta rather than sustained dominance across 90 minutes. Both goals came in the opening period, after which the game settled into a controlled pre-season tempo. The clean sheet was Invicta's second of the summer after the 0-0 draw with Dartford on 11 July. Pre-season friendly stats are limited, but the pattern — a sharp first-half burst followed by a quieter second half — is typical of a side building match fitness.

Folkestone's pre-season record now stands at two wins, one draw and two defeats from five outings since 4 July, following victories over AFC Croydon Athletic (5-2) and now Charlton Athletic XI. The loss to Cray Wanderers (3-1) on 14 July ended a two-game unbeaten run. Invicta travel to Southern Premier Division South side Sholing on 25 July, before facing Sutton United (28 July) and Welling United (1 August) in their final build-up fixtures ahead of the National League South campaign.

For Charlton's U21/XI side, the match provided valuable competitive minutes against senior non-league opposition as they continue their own pre-season preparations.

A professional, efficient display from Folkestone. Pigott and Cosgrave delivered the decisive moments in the first half, and the defence ensured the clean sheet never looked seriously threatened. Saunders will be pleased with the response after Tuesday's defeat at Cray Wanderers.