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Charlton Athletic boosted their League One Play-Off hopes and gave Nigel Adkins his first win as boss with a 1-0 victory over Doncaster Rovers at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Ian Maatsen’s 12th minute strike proved to be decisive, holding off his marker well to slot home after goalkeeper Ben Amos’ long kick downfield was flicked on to the make-shift forward.
However, it could all have unravelled shortly afterwards as Omar Bogle, James Coppinger and Fejiri Okenabirhie all had opportunities to equalise which they failed to take.
Charlton soon regained control though but a second goal proved elusive with Maatsen once again going closest.
The Addicks thought they had doubled their advantage shortly after the interval though, only for Jayden Stockley’s effort to be chalked off as Diallang Jaiyesimi appeared to be in an offside position.
Clear-cut chances slowly diminished as the game progressed, Doncaster failing to convert their possession into chances.
In the end Charlton were able to comfortably see the game out to claim a deserving three points and move back into Play-Off contention.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Doncaster’s spate of chances following Ian Maatsen’s early goal was the reality check Charlton needed with Nigel Adkins’ side quickly refocusing their game.
Moan of the Match
Charlton took their foot off the gas after the opening goal, allowing Doncaster to come at them too easily – fortunately they weren’t punished.
Talking Point
Nigel Adkins is already showing he’s not afraid to try out different tactics – first with Maatsen in a wide right role, then with Alex Gilbey playing almost as a supporting striker in the second period.
Man of the Match
Ian Maatsen – playing in an advanced role on the right, the Dutchman never looked out of place as he was regularly sought out to build attacks and took his goal well.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Marc Edwards (Tyne & Wear) – largely innocuous throughout as the game flowed without much disruption from the official.
Atmosphere
Nigel Adkins was continually encouraging his Charlton players which was the complete opposite of the muted Doncaster bench. It was also surreal to hear the SKY team over everyone else in the ground.
Verdict
A controlled performance from Charlton, with an early goal followed by the soaking up of Doncaster pressure – although they were rarely tested by the opposition in the second-half.
