Chatham Town manager and chairman Kevin Hake leaves last campaign’s successes in past ahead of season-opening journey to St Albans City and Isthmian Premier visit of Dulwich Hamlet

Boss Kevin Hake has drawn a line under last campaign’s successes for Chatham - knowing they will count for nothing when the new season begins.

Chats are off to St Albans for their Isthmian Premier season opener this Saturday.

The club again came close to National League South promotion, suffering a 3-2 play-off semi-final loss at Billericay, and also reached the first-round proper of the FA Cup and the FA Trophy fifth round - beating National League big-hitters Carlisle United 1-0 at the Bauvill Stadium along the way.

Canterbury-born former Gillingham midfielder Bradley Stevenson, defender Ben Coker and attacker Eitel Goueth have been among the outfit’s summer signings.

“There’s always a real sense of excitement ahead of the opening game of a new season,” said manager/chairman Hake, whose men host Dulwich Hamlet on Tuesday.

“We’ve had a productive pre-season, the players have worked extremely hard and now everyone is looking forward to the real thing getting under way.

“We start with a tough trip to St Albans, who are always a strong side, particularly on their own ground. It’s exactly the sort of test you’d expect on the opening day - but one we’re looking forward to.

“Pre-season has allowed us to build fitness, develop relationships within the squad and continue working on the identity we want to show throughout the season. The new signings have settled in well, the group has come together quickly and I feel we’re in a good place heading into the opening weekend.

“Last season gave us some fantastic memories - but we’ve drawn a line under that now. Nothing we achieved last year earns us a single point this season.

“We have to go out and earn everything again.

“We know this league is incredibly competitive and there are