1 min
Charlton Athletic fell to a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Wycombe Wanderers at The Valley in a game where their lack of sharpness post-Covid outbreak hurt them.
The opening half hour saw little between the two sides with Elliot Lee’s speculative effort from distance the only opportunity as both sides failed to retain possession.
However, Wycombe opened the scoring in the 35th minute as Garath McCleary beat George Dobson on the counter-attack before firing a low cross into Sam Vokes who rifled the ball into the roof of the net from six yards out.
The second-half introduction of Jonathan Leko saw Charlton begin to dominate and play with an intensity that was lacking in the opening period.
And Leko nearly found an equaliser as Alex Gilbey’s low cross hit the back of the substitute’s heel and ricocheted off the post.
Charlton continued to push forward in search of an equaliser with Leko and Conor Washington both having further chances before Ryan Inniss saw an injury-time effort cleared off the line.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Sam Vokes’ opener was a rare show of quality in a first-half lacking in it, and ultimately the only thing to separate the two sides over the 90 minutes.
Moan of the Match
Charlton evidently lacked match sharpness due to their recent Covid outbreak with too many players dawdling on the ball and making poor decisions.
Talking Point
Charlton missed top scorer Jayden Stockley through injury – with the transfer window open should another attacking option be their main priority?
Man of the Match
Alex Gilbey – Charlton’s most energetic player in a beleaguered performance, and as always constantly tried to make driving runs forward and find players in space.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Paul Howard (London) – had few contentious decisions to make but was too susceptible to giving fouls in Wycombe’s favour when he should’ve played more advantages.
Atmosphere
The late night New Year’s Eve celebrations meant The Valley was the flattest it had been for a while – although Charlton provided little for their fans to sing about.
Verdict
A disjointed and disappointing Charlton performance – Johnnie Jackson’s side will have to find itself again after the recent coronavirus disruption.
