Chatham Town manager Kevin Hake reacts to their Isthmian Premier win over Dulwich Hamlet watched by a crowd of 2,588 – Chats travel to Bognor Regis on Saturday

Chatham Town enjoyed a comeback victory in front of a huge crowd at the Bauvill Stadium on New Year’s Day to kick off 2024 in style.

A 2-1 victory at home against Dulwich Hamlet came thanks to a last-gasp winner from Reece Butler after Chris Dickson had cancelled out the visiting side’s opener. It was watched by a crowd of 2,588.

Chairman and manager Kevin Hake said: “It was a memorable start to the new year by getting the win and our first ever home and away victory against a side at this level (Chats beat Dulwich 5-2 away in August).

“Dulwich are a massive club and at the start of the season were one of the favourites to go straight back up. They have had a lot of change and I expect them to mount a charge as they only had one loss in 13 going into the game.

“From the first whistle it was evident that our boys were up for it. The amount of turnovers we achieved, particularly in the first half, was immense. It meant we didn’t allow Dulwich to get into their rhythm which was important as we know they have players who could hurt us.

“We had to show great character as we went behind against the run of play. My only criticism of the performance was that we didn’t do better in final third in first half and if you don’t take your chances you always run the risk of getting caught out.

“I couldn't be prouder of these lads for coming back the way they did. They didn’t panic and executed our game plan well and they gave their all for the fans and the club.

“The win is a testament to their hard work and dedication over the Christmas period where we picked up maximum points.”

Chats beat Kingstonian 3-1 on Boxing Day and head to mid-table Bognor Regis this Saturday sitting second in the Isthmian Premier table, six points off leaders