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Chatham Town boss Kevin Hake has praised the “immense” support over Christmas and there’s another big crowd expected for a New Year’s Day derby.
Over 2,000 fans packed into the Bauvill Stadium on Saturday to see Hake’s side take maximum points against Bowers & Pitsea and hang onto fifth place in the Isthmian Premier Division table.
Chatham took four points from their Christmas games, following up a 3-3 Boxing Day draw against Cray Valley PM with a 3-1 win over Bowers at home just two days later.
John Ufuah gave Chats an early lead against Bowers - in front of a crowd of 2,011 - and Rowan Liburd doubled their advantage midway through the opening half.
Simon Cooper added a third in first-half stoppage time.
Cooper had also scored against Cray Valley in a see-saw battle at the Artic Stadium where Jordy Mongoy and Jack Evans - from the penalty spot - also netted for Chatham.
“A special mention must go to our supporters who have been immense,” said Hake, speaking after a busy few days.
“We understand that the economy isn’t great at the moment so to get over 200 going away to Cray Valley on Boxing Day was unreal.
“To then be backed up by over 2,000 at home vs Bowers - which was highest attendance in country at out level - is immense.”
Hake added: “Back-to-back games in less than 48 hours is a tough schedule so securing four points was a decent tally.
“We are slowly building and retain our position in the play-offs which is important.”
Chatham host Dartford on New Year’s Day (3pm) - a side who sit one place above them in the table - seven points better off.
Hake said: “Everyone is talking about the game against Dartford now on New Year’s Day which looks like it could be another big crowd.
“The away game earlier in the season was a great game so it promises to be another great occasion at the Bauvill which we all can’t wait to be involved in.”
Dartford are 13 unbeaten in the Isthmian Premier Division, winning their last four, as they look for an immediate return back to National League South.
The game at Dartford ended in a 3-1 win for Ady Pennock’s side as Sam Odaudu, Callum Jones and Eddie Dsane replied to Jamie Yila’s opener for the Chats.
