Ebbsfleet United secured a commanding 4-0 victory, propelled by Ben Chapman’s first career hat-trick, as they closed to within one point of the league leaders. The win extended Ebbsfleet’s unbeaten streak and marked a personal milestone for Chapman, the club’s longest-serving player, who has now scored five goals in five games.

The midfielder opened the scoring in the 17th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Lennon Peake to turn the ball home from close range. Ebbsfleet quickly doubled their advantage eight minutes later through Chapman again, who finished a swift attacking move initiated by Toby Edser with a first-time shot that left the opposing goalkeeper Jordi van Stappershoef no chance.

Despite enjoying the wind advantage in the first half, Ebbsfleet were unable to increase their lead further before the break. Daniel Ogunleye missed a target, and Finlay Barnes forced a notable save from van Stappershoef as the visitors struggled to create clear chances.

The second half saw the home side maintain pressure, with Chapman narrowly missing a shot and Edser’s attempt lacking the necessary power to trouble the keeper. The decisive blow came late in the match, when Chapman converted a penalty awarded after Barnes was fouled in the box, completing his hat-trick three minutes from time.

The visitors’ day worsened just before the final whistle when a cross from Jake Vokins was inadvertently deflected into the net by defender Dave Mantle, sealing the 4-0 triumph for Ebbsfleet United.