1 min
Charlton Athletic got the new League One campaign off to an unbeaten start with a goalless draw against recently relegated Sheffield Wednesday at The Valley.
Despite looking the team most likely to score, the Addicks could find no way past a resolute Owls defence that largely restricted them to half chances.
The first-half itself was more notable for a worrying injury to Callum Paterson that saw the Wednesday frontman stretchered off after a lengthy delay.
Opportunities that did arrive Charlton’s way came firstly through Jayden Stockley as he placed a free header wide before Albie Morgan curled his free-kick over the bar in first-half injury time.
The second period saw Charlton on the front foot for the majority of the half but once more they could not convert chances as Conor Washington, Diallang Jaiyesimi and Morgan all blazed over.
And they were nearly punished for their profligacy late on but Owls captain Barry Bannan could only scuff his effort wide with just Craig MacGillivray to beat.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
In a day of half chances, Jayden Stockley perhaps had the clearest opportunity when he sent his free header wide. In truth it was easier to hit the target.
Moan of the Match
It’s clear that Charlton’s recruitment is not finished but with a bit more cutting edge in attacking positions they could have won this game.
Talking Point
Given how light Charlton are at the moment this was a very encouraging performance by Nigel Adkins’ charges. The question is how many extra recruits do they need and in what areas?
Man of the Match
Jayden Stockley – sometimes left to forge a lone path as Charlton’s target man, he demonstrated exactly why he has returned to the club on a permanent deal with a tireless display.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Will Finnie (Bedfordshire) – the referee’s whistle was often heard but it was arguably necessary in what was at times a scrappy affair.
Atmosphere
It’s been easy to forget what The Valley used to sound like but the Addicks faithful made sure the players were quickly introduced to the famous rocking Valley atmosphere.
Verdict
A promising opening day draw for Charlton given Sheffield Wednesday are expected to be promotion challengers and the Addicks were more than a match for them in all areas.
