More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Chatham Town will be looking to make it three wins on the spin tonight as they host another side chasing promotion.
Kevin Hake’s side swept aside Canvey Island on Saturday after a stunning start to the Isthmian Premier Division fixture at the Bauvill Stadium.
An own-goal got Chats off to a flyer against the Essex side with just two minutes gone, Ashley Nzala doubled the lead, Chris Dickson made it 3-0 after half an hour before teeing up Dean Beckwith for the fourth following a corner.
Canvey got a goal back before the break but Kareem Isiaka made it 5-1 just before the hour - which is how it finished. Another Essex side head to Chatham tonight (Tuesday) when Hashtag United come looking to boost their own play-off hopes.
A huge crowd enjoyed Saturday’s win - 1,634 were there to watch - and Hake was delighted his side put on a show.
“The boys were magnificent,” he said. “We came out the blocks flying and the game was all over in 20 minutes.
“The lads have been great in training all week and the new lads have been welcomed with open arms.
“We have great competition for places now which is very important as we approach the last third of the season. Squad rotation is vital as we have a lot of games coming up.”
Isthmian Premier Division Table
Chatham now have midweek games throughout February as the season hots up.
“If we progress in the cups we know March will be the same,” said Hake.
“That’s why a large squad is critical as fatigue and injuries always play a part.”
Two new faces were included at the weekend. Right-back Miguel Scarlett - a former Gillingham youth player - has joined from Dulwich Hamlet and he played the full match at the weekend.
Rowan Liburd, meanwhile, came off the bench having signed from Sevenoaks Town.
The 6ft 5inch 31-year-old striker started his career in the Championship with Reading and also has Football League experience with Wycombe. He’s been involved with a number of non-league sides in recent seasons but played international football for St Kitts & Nevis last summer in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Looking ahead to their next challenge, Hake said: “We know Hashtag are not on a good run but they are a decent side. The away game was a great football game and we will need to play to a high standard to get the three points.”
Hake was also keen to mention the fans at the weekend, adding: “A big thank you for the continued support of our fans. Saturday’s attendance of over 1,600 was the biggest in Kent which is incredible.”
