Chatham Town manager Kevin Hake is expecting another tight battle with Sheppey tonight.

While Hake’s second-placed side have lost two of their last three, the Ites are eight unbeaten in Isthmian South East.

• More: Sheppey facing a test of credentials

Chats were unable to recover from conceding early on against Hythe at the weekend, despite an improved second half showing, as they lost the match 1-0. They have taken one point from their last three but remain well placed in the table.

Looking ahead to tonight’s game at the Bauvill Stadium, Hake said: “I don’t recall a game in recent years between the two sides that has been a boring game. There are always goals and it’s normally a tight affair.

“We are on a bad run of form and they are the in-form team in the league. Pressure will always be on these games as the fixture has a rich vein of history.”

Both clubs have impressed at the new level since their promotion from the Southern Counties East Premier Division.

Hake said: “A lot is made of newly promoted teams and it is a steep learning curve in the Isthmian that’s for sure.

“I can’t speak for Sheppey but we are delighted with progress so far. We will of course continue to give it our all for the remainder of the season and keep pushing to finish as high as we can.”

Chats handed a debut to newly signed striker Ollie Sotoyinbo on Saturday, joining the club after previously playing at Stowmarket, Brightlingsea Regent and Hullbridge Sports.

He came off the bench against Hythe but was unable to grab a goal to get Chats level as Johan Caney-Bryan’s ninth minute effort settled the contest.

Hake said: “Saturday was not a classic, we weren’t at our best and it was disappointing not to come away with any points. I thought we were good value second half after Hythe being the better team in the first.

“We made some changes and we looked like we was going to break the door down and score, however, we didn’t take our chances but full credit to Hythe as they dug in and came out as winners.”

Following tonight’s match, Chatham are back on the road this Saturday, away to strugglers Corinthian.