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Charlton Athletic missed the chance to move back into the Championship Play-Off places as Lee Bowyer’s side were defeated 1-0 by Preston North End at The Valley.
Paul Gallagher’s 58th minute penalty was the difference, converting from the spot after Jason Pearce brought down Jayden Stockley in the area.
Overall it was a game of few chances with the Addicks coming closest early in the first-half as Ben Purrington’s low drive was met well by Preston stopper Declan Rudd.
At the other end, Dillon Phillips was forced into action when both Pearce and Naby Sarr failed to clear a cross, allowing a stretching Tom Barkhuizen to turn it goalbound.
And although Preston dominated the second period, they failed to double their advantage with Barkhuizen once again denied by Phillips in injury time.
And it meant the Addicks could have stolen a draw at the death, only for Purrington – on his weaker foot – to hit the side netting from close range.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Paul Gallagher’s 58th minute penalty proved the defining moment in an otherwise low-key encounter.
Moan of the Match
Charlton’s reluctance to attack more in the opening 45 minutes despite looking dangerous when they did.
Talking Point
Should Charlton have done more to get the ball to midfielders Josh Cullen and Conor Gallagher who threatened PNE throughout?
Man of the Match
Dillon Phillips – made some smart saves to keep Charlton in the game and set them up to potentially grab a point.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
David Webb (County Durham) – fair throughout and got the big calls right.
Atmosphere
Not the loudest day at The Valley with the attendance obviously reduced due to the moved kick-off and TV coverage.
Verdict
With key personnel missing, Charlton weren’t their usual tenacious self and will need to improve ahead of next week’s South London derby against Millwall.
