Manager Kevin Hake says Chatham must improve their away form if they are to maintain their challenge for back-to-back promotions.

Chats are second in Isthmian South East on the strength of their 100% record at Maidstone Road.

They’ve won 10 out of 10 at home but picked up one only one win from eight games on the road, with three draws and four defeats.

Chats, promoted as Southern Counties East runners-up last season, are enjoying an excellent first season back in the Isthmian League.

It has the potential to get even better if they pick up a few more points on their travels.

Boss Hake said: “We currently find ourselves alongside some seasoned teams at this level who have been in the league for over five years, so all the signs are good.

“However, we must improve our away form if we are to challenge as we can’t just rely on our excellent home form to date.”

Chatham lost 2-0 at leaders Ramsgate in a top-of-the-table clash on Monday.

The visitors, who would have gone top on goal difference with a win, started well at Southwood.

But they didn’t make it count and Rams moved six points clear with second-half goals from Ben Fitchett and Ashley Miller.

“If you don’t take your chances then you don’t win games,” said Hake.

“We were disappointed with the result on Monday but it was an easier one to accept as you get punished at this level for not taking advantage of all the chances we created.

“First half in particular, we had chances to go in front and didn’t take them.

“Games can turn out differently if you go in front as teams need to change their original game plan.

“All credit must go to Ramsgate for being resilient and taking their chances better than us.

“I can accept that and we now look to move on as we approach the second half of the season.”

Chatham, who host East Grinstead tomorrow (3pm), are in for a busy start to the new year.

Hake said: “January sees another month where we have nine games due to our good cup runs, so there will be opportunities for squad players to edge their way into starting games and challenging for places.”