1 min
Charlton Athletic picked up their first win of the League One season as they dispatched Crewe Alexandra 2-0 at The Valley.
The Addicks took the lead via Diallang Jaiyesimi just past the half-hour mark as the winger headed in Chris Gunter’s cross.
Callum Ainley almost had Crewe back on level terms immediately afterwards but Craig MacGillivray saved brilliantly to keep Charlton’s lead intact.
Jayden Stockley then doubled Charlton’s advantage just before half-time, finishing off a great move orchestrated by Jaiyesimi and Conor Washington.
MacGillivray was on hand again to deny Kayne Ramsay early in the second-half after the Crewe player’s driving run went unchallenged.
At the other end, Washington should have extended Charlton’s lead but could only force a save from Will Jaaskelainen, with Charlie Kirk also denied by the Crewe keeper moments later.
As Crewe looked to reduce the arrears, Ainley forced another good save from MacGillivray and were also later denied by Albie Morgan as he headed Chris Porter’s header off the line.
Washington had another late chance but saw his goal-bound effort blocked before Stockley forced a stunning diving save from Jaaskelainen inside the final 10 minutes.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Jayden Stockley’s goal took the game away from Crewe and gave the hosts the belief to play with more confidence.
Moan of the Match
The Addicks still look slightly limited in their movement at times and need to find other ways of unlocking defences other than long balls – whether that’s over defences or to Stockley.
Talking Point
Charlton should have won this game by more than two goals – why were they so wasteful and how can they increase their shot conversion rate?
Man of the Match
Conor Washington – a constant thorn in the side of the visitors’ backline with his runs in behind, one of which led to an assist for Stockley’s goal.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
James Bell (South Yorkshire) – generally fair and tried to let the game flow, no major decisions to make.
Atmosphere
Lively atmosphere helped the home side settle early, but it was then up to the players to generate the noise – and they eventually did, leading to a vociferous second-half crowd.
Verdict
Charlton were good value for their win in the end as they created numerous chances with Nigel Adkins’ switch to 4-4-2 paying off.
