Chatham Town beat Westfield 2-0 in the FA Cup and will play Welling Town in the second qualifying round – Chats host Hendon at the Bauvill Stadium in the Isthmian Premier this Saturday

Two second-half goals were enough for Chatham Town to progress to the second qualifying round of the FA Cup following a tough weekend assignment.

Goals from Bailey Akehurst and Freddie Sears, on 50 and 60 minutes, earned Chats a 2-0 away win over Isthmian South Central side Westfield.

Manager Kevin Hake said: “We knew when the draw was made that it was going to be a difficult game.

“Westfield were on a rich run of form and were in the play-offs last year.

“First half was honours even but second half saw Bailey Akehurst open his account with a great free-kick.

“Searsy (Freddie Sears) was a thorn in their side all afternoon and started the move in his own half and was there for the tap on when it was crossed by Kofe (Anokye Boadi).

“It was a great team goal and was a decisive goal in the end.”

A tough draw has seen them handed an away game at National South side Welling United in the next round, the tie to be played on Saturday, September 14.

Chatham return to league action in the Isthmian Premier this Saturday and are at home to Hendon.

Hake said: “The tie sets us up for nice game against Welling Saturday week but for now we turn our attentions to another inform team Hendon at the Bauvill on Saturday.

“Its great to be back at home after successive away games.

“Hendon have made a great start to the season and are sitting fifth in the league.

“It’s set up to be a great game and let’s hope we see another packed stadium as we look to continue the good form we are on.”

*Forward Khale da Costa has announced he’s left Chats. He started the previous league game against Dartford but wasn’t involved against Westfield.

He posted on X: “Wanna wish Chatham Town the best for the rest of the season had a really good time there let's see