Chatham Town back to winning ways with FA Trophy victory over Wingate & Finchley – forward Kareem Isiaka returns to the club
05:00, 10 October 2024
Chatham Town boss Kevin Hake has praised his side’s attitude after ending their losing run.
A run of three defeats in the league and cup ended with a 1-0 victory over Wingate & Finchley on Saturday in their FA Trophy third qualifying round.
Hake said: “It was nice to get back to winning ways the weekend with a well-earned win.
“Other than the Canvey game (losing 3-1 at home), performances have warranted more than the results have given us, but that’s football.
“It is not something we are used to at this club, so it’s a testament to the success we have achieved in recent years.
“The lads have always shown a good attitude during this period and kept their heads down and worked hard.
“We try and keep grounded at the club and, cliche as it sounds, not get too high or low no matter what the result.”
Recent addition Jordy Mongoy scored the only goal of the game - a second in two appearances for the front-man - finding the net midway through the opening half.
Isthmian League Premier Division table
Chatham Town will now come up against their former manager in the FA Trophy first round.
They have been drawn away to James Collins’ Bowers & Pitsea side in the next round, travelling to the Len Salmon Stadium for the first-round tie on Saturday, October 26.
Hake said: “We know from our recent league game there in August it will be tough.
“James Collins has done an unbelievable job there guiding them to promotion last season and picking up some great results already.”
Pacey forward Ore Bello was in the Chats squad for the weekend match, playing the final 15 minutes, after joining from Potters Bar Town, a team he scored 14 goals for last season. He’s previously been at Dover.
Chats, meanwhile, have announced that forward Kareem Isiaka has returned.
The 22-year-old scored 15 goals for Chats last season in 24 starts and rejoins from Slough Town.
Chats said: “Kareem’s versatility to play anywhere across the forward line bolsters our attacking depth and is a timely boost ahead of a congested fixture schedule in the coming months.”
Chatham’s next game is away to Cray Wanderers on Tuesday (October 15) night.
