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Charlton Athletic narrowly missed out on a League One Play-Off spot despite an impressive 1-0 win over champions Hull City at The Valley.
In an anti-climactic finale, the Addicks’ victory became immaterial as Oxford United comfortably dispatched Burton Albion to clinch the final place.
The champions asserted themselves quickly, cutting Charlton’s defence apart and calling upon Ben Amos to make an early stop from Josh Magennis after just six minutes.
But the Addicks managed to keep the Tigers at bay and became increasingly threatening themselves as half-time approached.
Conor Washington’s brilliant control and strike flashed just wide before Jayden Stockley was unable to divert a drilled Liam Millar cross goalwards.
However, Charlton came flying out the blocks immediately after the interval with Stockley flicking a header onto the crossbar and Millar curling an effort inches wide.
Millar was involved again for Charlton’s winning goal, this time whipping an uncomfortable ball into the box that resulted in a mix up in the Hull defence and a Jacob Greaves own goal.
As Hull scrambled in search of an equaliser, Charlton comfortably held on to finish seventh in the table, missing out on the Play-Offs on goal difference.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
News of Matt Taylor’s goal to double Oxford United’s lead in the 28th minute against Burton spilled onto the pitch leaving Charlton disheartened for the rest of the half.
Moan of the Match
It was a real shame the business side of the finale was wrapped up before the hour mark with Oxford comfortably 3-0 up, leaving Charlton helpless.
Talking Point
After a positive end to the season, will Nigel Adkins’ Charlton have what it takes to come back stronger and battle it out for promotion next season?
Man of the Match
Jayden Stockley – Charlton’s target man won his duels, flick-ons and certainly presented Hull with issues from every cross.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Martin Coy (Durham) – dealt well with the amount of collisions and injuries, stopping play only when necessary and not rising to the heat of exchanges.
Atmosphere
Fans are a huge part of final day action and The Valley would have had a low-key optimism buzzing around during the warm-ups if they were present to enjoy this terrific win.
Verdict
A really impressive victory for Charlton, particularly in the second-half and although it ultimately was a case of so close but so far there are some real positives for next season.
