Ricky Shakes' first-half goal proved enough for Ebbsfleet as they bagged a narrow win over strugglers Kettering on Saturday.

The ball fell to Shakes (pictured) following Gozie Ugwu's cross and the Fleet man fired a shot beyond keeper Laurie Walker.

The goal, however, failed to liven up a subdued first half when neither side created much in the way of chances.

On-loan Liam Bellamy was back in the Fleet line-up but he failed to inspire his team-mates to greater heights.

Ugwu nearly added a second but his effort was off-target and then Liam Enver-Marum created a glorious chance but Walker denied him.

In the second half, the Fleet created a couple of half-chances as they looked to make the game safe. Ugwu was again denied by Walker but then had a simpler chance, only to shoot over from close range.

Fleet keeper Lance Cronin was hardly called into action and the final chances fell to Tom Phipp but he failed to make the game safe at the other end as the clock nervously ticked on.

The Fleet, who have now won three of their last four league games, are at home to Alfreton on Tuesday night.