Chatham Town’s big weekend win extended their unbeaten run in the league to eight games.

The Chats have recovered well from a slow start and their 5-0 victory over Whitehawk last Saturday was a result that manager Kevin Hake felt was always on the cards.

“That result has been coming a while now as performances have been good enough to warrant it,” said Hake.

“We are on an unbeaten run now that is required to have success in any league.

“I think in reality it’s taken a bit of time for them all to gel together but this squad has a sense of self-belief that all top teams need to have.

“It’s always hard to replicate any successful season and go and better it the year after.

“It’s only natural to be disappointed when we don’t win the first five league games like we did last season. That’s when it’s my job to keep a level head through these periods and not get too high or low during the process.

“I’m glad it’s the focus of many people’s attention to be writing us off already.”

Isthmian Premier Division table

Freddie Sears struck twice last Saturday, opening the scoring after just a minute. Jack Evans doubled the lead in the first half from the penalty spot.

Sears made it 3-0 before striker John Ufuah took the limelight, scoring twice inside the last 10 minutes to complete Chats’ biggest win of the season.

Hake said: “We just keep working hard and we will see where it takes us.

“We face a tough trip to Bognor Regis on Saturday who we know from last season are very good at home.

“They haven’t had the best of starts but we won’t be underestimating them as they look to turn their fortunes around.”

Chatham lost last season’s fixture at Bognor 2-1 in January.

Left-back Bailey Akehurst - a former Gills player - this week announced his departure from Chatham. His last game came against Billericay Town on November 5.

Posting on X, he wrote: “Decided to part ways with Chatham! Wish them all the best for the season! Looking forward to what’s next.”

*Chatham Town Women were knocked out of the Women’s FA Cup by league rivals London Bees last Sunday.

Keith Boanas’ side twice led in the first half with goals from Lottie Sharp and Amelia Woodgate but it was 2-2 at the break. The Bees scored again just after the hour mark to settle the tie.

Chatham are at London Seaward this Sunday in the league.