1 min
Charlton Athletic took another massive step towards securing their Championship status with a 1-0 win over London rivals QPR, courtesy of Darren Pratley’s first-half strike.
The Addicks midfielder scored the decisive goal in the 12th minute, nodding the ball home from Josh Cullen’s corner.
QPR struggled to create any clear cut chances although they did improve after the first-half drinks break and also looked livelier early in the second-half.
Their best chance to equalise also came in that period as Jordan Hugill’s back post effort was brilliantly saved by Charlton keeper Dillon Phllips immediately after the restart.
Following that, the Hoops failed to create anything of note, with Charlton having a second goal ruled out – correctly for offside – as Maculey Bonne headed past Liam Kelly (58).
Lee Bowyer’s men continued to control the match as it neared its conclusion to secure a win which moves them up to 17th – at least temporarily – in the Championship table.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Darren Pratley’s headed goal was not only crucial to determine this game but potentially for the Addicks survival hopes as well.
Moan of the Match
Bright Osayi-Samuel’s pace troubled Deji Oshilaja when QPR looked to get in behind, a tactic which they frustratingly did not employ often enough.
Talking Point
With QPR comfortably safe and virtually no chance of reaching the Play-Offs, how do they motivate themselves for these remaining fixtures?
Man of the Match
Josh Cullen – sprayed the ball around the pitch wonderfully and got the assist for Pratley’s winner whilst also contributing defensively.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Tim Robinson (West Sussex) – let the game flow as much as possible and kept control well, without having to rush for his cards.
Atmosphere
Charlton’s fake crowd noise worked quite well and ebbed and flowed relatively well with the game.
Verdict
Charlton’s first consecutive wins since August have moved them a step closer to safety and should give the team confidence heading into the last seven.
