Boss Kevin Hake conceded he was slightly disappointed to come away with just a point from Chatham’s Isthmian Premier derby against leaders Dover on Saturday.

Chats extended their unbeaten run to eight games in all competitions as they played out a 1-1 draw at home to Jake Leberl’s Whites in front of a 1,903-strong attendance.

Captain Jack Evans’ second-half strike gave them a deserved advantage, only for Dover to respond well and level through 14-goal top scorer George Nikaj in Medway.

Chatham manager-chairman Hake reflected: “I thought we were good today. They will certainly know that they have been in a game, which is what we want.

“They had a 15-minute spell - and got a goal in that - and good luck to them. They got their goal and held on for a point. They’re up there for a reason and they’re a decent team.

“I’m a bit disappointed to come away with a draw - but that’s football.”

Midfielder Evans had broken the deadlock through a fine curling effort in the 51st minute - having come off the substitutes’ bench to net a late penalty in Tuesday’s 1-1 draw at play-off occupants Billericay - as the 31-year-old moved to four goals this campaign.

Report: Chatham 1-1 Dover

“He’s starting to get into that run which we know that Jack does year-in, year-out,” said Hake.

“It’s a good finish by him.

“Probably because he’s not 35 yards out - that’s even more trademark Jack - everyone will say ‘It’s just a normal goal’ but it’s a heck of a finish from the edge of the box.

“Everyone, including Jack, put in a good shift. I was pleased with that.”

Chatham find themselves 15th in the table, already eight points from the play-off positions, despite their upturn in form, having got off to a sluggish start this season.

“It’s a work-in-progress for the boys,” admitted Hake, whose team will be at home to Horsham on Tuesday.

“There’s a lot of new lads and we’re on a run of games where we’re playing all the top teams in a short space of time, and we haven’t been beaten.

“So, I’m pleased.”