1 min
Charlton Athletic’s promotion hopes were dealt a blow with a poor 3-1 defeat to fellow promotion chasers Portsmouth at The Valley.
Albie Morgan came within inches of giving the Addicks an early lead on nine minutes with a half volley from the edge of the area rattling the bar.
However, it was Pompey who enjoyed first-half dominance and they eventually took the lead through Michael Jacob’s superb first time finish on 39 minutes, flying into the top left hand corner.
Somewhat against the run of play, Charlton equalised through Jayden Stockley’s 52nd minute header going in off the post from an Andrew Shinnie corner.
Charlton keeper Ben Amos then had to be alert just two minutes later to deny substitute Marcus Harness one-on-one.
But his efforts proved in vain, as Portsmouth regained the lead as Tom Naylor climbed highest to head in Harness’ 55th minute free-kick.
And things went from bad to worse for the hosts six minutes later as Ben Watson lost the ball cheaply on the edge of his own box, allowing Andy Cannon to collect and curl a smart finish.
Charlton struggled to create anything of merit for the remaining 30 minutes against a well-organised Portsmouth side.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
If Albie Morgan’s early effort had been a few inches lower, Charlton could have had their tails up and taken control.
Moan of the Match
It comes as no surprise given the match was rained off only two days ago, as The Valley ‘bog’ gave the players an extra challenge to contend with throughout.
Talking Point
Some debate as to who is to blame for such a poor Charlton display. Was it Lee Bowyer’s tactics or poor individual errors? Either way, fans will want answers.
Man of the Match
Jayden Stockley – one of few bright sparks for the Addicks, winning plenty in the air and showing what he can offer, linking up well with his strike partners.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Robert Madley (West Yorkshire) – Bobby must have had a new whistle to test tonight with plenty of fouls on a rough pitch stopping either side building momentum.
Atmosphere
Plenty of frustration from those in red with Charlton’s players counting themselves lucky the stands were empty, as the home faithful wouldn’t have stood for this display.
Verdict
Portsmouth showed what it takes to be genuine promotion contenders while Bowyer’s diamond midfield was sluggish and ineffective throughout – although individuals did let him down in key moments too.
