It’s been a dream start for table-topping Chatham Town - but manager Kevin Hake isn’t getting carried away.

Chatham’s 6-1 home thumping of Hythe Town, coupled with defeat for previous leaders Ramsgate last Saturday, saw Hake’s men go top of Isthmian League South East on goal difference, with 10 games played.

They followed that up by easing to a 3-0 win at Merstham in the Velocity Cup second round on Monday and head to Beckenham Town this Saturday boasting a five-game winning run and nine unbeaten in all competitions.

It’s been a terrific start for a side who haven’t played at the level for the past five seasons.

Hake said: “I have looked [at the table] but we are not getting carried away.

“It has been a really good start, 10 games played and only losing once is a dream start, but we are keeping the lads grounded, we are all grounded.

“It is early days and we have got a really tough November coming up against some top sides. We have to keep our heads to the ground and keep grinding out the results.”

October was a busy period for the Chats, with a Kent Senior Cup first round win over Ashford and Velocity Cup wins over Sheppey and Mersham between their league commitments, picking up 14 points from a possible 18 during the month.

Hake also strengthened his squad and he’s needed those bodies.

“October has been like a marathon for them,” he said, “It’s been like playing a World Cup with no rest at the end of it.

“We highlighted at the start of the month that the squad is going to be key to this, we’ve made changes and I am really happy.

“When you look at the bench, that is the change really from previous seasons. We can look at the bench now and there are guys on there who can make a difference, almost whatever starting XI we put out is going to be a strong one.

“When we beat Sheppey [in the Velocity Cup first round] we were rewarded with a trip to Merstham on the Monday but we’ve taken everything that has been thrown at us. They had Tuesday off to recuperate and we’ve got Beckenham away on Saturday.

“It is a really tough place to go, they are right up there with us, they always have been.

“No matter where they are in the league table it will always be a hard place to go. We have had some really good games between us over the years and it is one we are really looking forward to.”

Chatham’s home record in the league is now six wins from six.

Saturday’s victory over Hythe came thanks to an early opener from Emmanuel Oloyede, a double for Dan Bradshaw, a 45-yard effort from Jack Evans and goals from Daniel Thompson and newly-signed midfielder Callum Peck. Four of the goals were provided by left-back Matt Bodkin.

“Bods has been a revelation,” said his manager.

“To go and get four assists from left-back, it is unreal. He is a true inspiration for any youngster out there looking at how to condition your body.

“He has a positive mentally, he always has a smile on his face and while others hung their boots up years ago he is looking as fresh as ever. He’s 39 now but looking great.”