Wednesday night’s Kent Senior Cup final defeat was a blow for Chatham but the manager praised his team’s efforts following an historic season.

Kevin Hake, manager and chairman, led the side to the Isthmian South East title and the semi-final of the Velocity Cup, where they were beaten by Isthmian Premier side Aveley away on penalties.

Report: Chatham 1 Margate 1 (4-5 on penalties)

Chats lost in a shoot-out again in the final of the Kent Senior Cup to Margate, narrowly missing out on a trophy the club last won in 1919.

It wasn’t their night on Wednesday but the club are clearly on the up.

It’s back-to-back promotions for an ambitious club whose manager has eyes on the Football League.

Hake said: “All the lads are bitterly disappointed to not come away with the cup, especially in front of a great turnout of over 2,400 Chats fans at Priestfield.

“It’s a bitter way to lose on penalties but we can’t complain as it’s been a great season.

“If someone had said at start of year you would win the league, get to a final and a semi-final and lose on penalties in both games and continue our unbeaten home league record I would have bitten their hand off.”

Chatham haven’t lost a league game at home since October 30, 2021, on their way to promotion from the Southern Counties East Premier Division. They continued that impressive form at home this season with 15 wins a four draws at the Bauvill Stadium.

“The lads have been nothing short of amazing,” said their manager.

“They have been pushed beyond all belief by the coaching team as we tried to find ways of keep winning.

“Full credit goes to the boys as we’ve had to adapt to the challenges of playing in a higher league and different styles of teams we faced.

“As the book closes on this season it’s one that will go down in history as the club has never been beyond this level in its 141 year history.

“We will face different challenges next as we look to readjust to the next level and whilst this campaign is over the hard work has already begun for next season.

“Thanks to all the players, staff and supporters that have helped contribute to an unforgettable year.”

Chatham have already announced two big friendly matches coming up this summer with home games against Charlton Athletic (Tuesday, July 4) and Gillingham (Friday, July 14). Early bird season ticket holders can watch the games for free.

Those early priced tickets for Chatham’s Isthmian Premier home campaign cost £150 for adults, £75 concessions, £35 under-16s or £300 for a family (2+2).