Chatham Town manager Kevin Hake’s reaction to their 1-0 loss at Dorking Wanderers in the FA Cup third qualifying round and a freebie for fans this Tuesday in the Kent Senior Cup against Gillingham

Chatham Town boss Kevin Hake says he could not be prouder of his players after their FA Cup exit – as the club prepares to give something back to supporters against Gillingham.

The Chats were beaten 1-0 by National League South side Dorking Wanderers in Saturday’s third qualifying round tie but produced a performance that left Hake full of praise for his players.

Chatham started brightly, with Jack Lyons hitting the woodwork from the edge of the box inside the opening minute before Sid Nelson saw an effort cleared off the line midway through the first half.

Former Gillingham goalkeeper Glenn Morris produced a string of saves in the match, including a stop to deny Lyons from distance and an athletic full-stretch save from Harry Lodovica.

Kola Salami also put a late chance over the bar as Chatham pushed for an equaliser after Harry Pinchard scored directly from a corner to give the home side the lead.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the players,” said the Chats boss.

“Of course, we’re disappointed to be out of the FA Cup and to lose the game 1–0, but I can’t ask any more from that group.

“The lads left absolutely everything out on the pitch and there were some real warrior-type performances out there.

“We came up against a very good Dorking Wanderers side, but I thought we competed with them throughout.

“We showed courage, togetherness and a real desire to stay in the game and keep fighting right until the final whistle.

“That’s the identity we demand at Chatham Town as we want our supporters to look at the players wearing that shirt and know they have given everything for the football club. They certainly did that.”

Hake was also delighted to see another academy player make the step up to the first team, with Mo Gibbs making