1 min
Charlton Athletic hung on to edge out London rivals Brentford 1-0 at the Valley to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.
In a topsy-turvy encounter with few clear-cut opportunities, Charlton’s stern willpower earned them a clean sheet to claim a third Championship victory in five games.
In a first-half that presented few chances, Brentford were tidy in possession as a lively Sergi Canos saw his effort flick over the bar after a miscommunication in the Addick’s defence.
But as the game settled, Charlton grew into it with Jonny Williams weaving into space to set-up Conor Gallagher who smashed the ball home five minutes before the interval to open the scoring.
The second period saw Brentford’s Ollie Watkins force David Raya to tip an effort over the bar just after the hour mark, as pressure piled on Charlton’s back line.
Mathias Jensen’s dipping shot then gave Raya something else to think about but in a frantic finish, the home side threw bodies across the box to hold on for another win.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Gallagher’s clinical finish against the run of play altered the momentum and set the Addicks up for a strong second-half, giving them something to hold on to.
Moan of the Match
Much to the frustration of the home support, Charlton’s failure to keep possession gave Brentford the opportunity to continually rework their attack at will.
Talking Point
Should the Addicks be concerned they were forced to desperately defend their narrow lead at the end, after struggling to create chances despite their abundance of attacking players?
Man of the Match
Jason Pearce – the captain was commanding and one of the main reasons Brentford failed to find an equaliser with a stunning challenge five minutes from time.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Tim Robinson (West Sussex) – was positive throughout and always tried to let the game flow wherever possible.
Atmosphere
Had a proper London derby feel to it with the Valley buzzing prior to kick-off before notching up a decibel after the opener.
Verdict
Lee Bowyer may not be overly pleased with his side’s lack of creativity but he will have no qualms with their fight and determination to grind out another positive result.
