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Charlton Athletic’s Play-Off chances were left further frustrated with a 2-2 draw against Crewe Alexandra at the Valley.
The Addicks made the perfect start when Jayden Stockley headed a Alex Gilbey cross into the top left corner ten minutes in.
And although Callum Ainley was causing Charlton problems and Owen Dale fired wire when well placed, the Railwaymen were unable to find an equaliser in the opening 45 minutes.
The second-half saw Crewe continue to threaten and they eventually levelled in the 67th minute when the dangerous Dale scissored his way through the Charlton defence and curled the ball into the bottom right corner.
Crewe could then have gone in front two minutes later only for Ainley’s shot to be pushed over the crossbar by Charlton keeper Ben Amos.
Charlton dug in though and when Alex Gilby headed the ball through Will Jaaskelainen’s legs from close range in the 83rd minute they looked like they had secured a fortunate three points.
But once again Crewe rallied and Dale found the net for the second time with a volley with virtually the last kick of the game.
The result leaves Charlton in eighth place, two points off sixth-placed Portsmouth but with a game in hand.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Owen Dale’s last minute volley gave Crewe Alexandra a well deserved point but further dented Charlton’s Play-Off hopes.
Moan of the Match
Charlton looked exposed on the break and seemed to spend more time running backwards than forwards.
Talking Point
Jason Pearce and Darren Pratley continued to look vulnerable against quick attacks. Will Nigel Adkins delve into the transfer market for defensive reinforcements this summer?
Man of the Match
Owen Dale – the Crewe Alexandra striker was the major difference between the two sides.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Trevor Kettle (East Midlands) – the highlight of his performance was running over to Crewe boss David Artell in the 54th minute to give him a stern talking to for too much protesting.
Atmosphere
Charlton fans rocked the Valley’s acoustics with a firework filled half-time show outside the stadium gates.
Verdict
For the second consecutive game, Charlton Athletic’s performance let them down and they did not deserve to win. With the games slowly running out to seal a top six finish it’s a concern that will have to be rectified quickly.
