1 min
Charlton Athletic claimed a first win in eight league games by beating Gillingham 1-0 at The Valley, easing fears of being drawn into a League One relegation battle.
The visitors had the first real glimpse of goal in the 21st minute when Stuart O’Keefe hit a low half volley from outside the box which Charlton keeper Craig MacGillivray did well to save.
At the other end, Alex Gilbey had a couple of efforts which went wide, the latter a header from a Scott Fraser cross.
However, the midfielder did find the target five minutes before the break – reacting quickest to Gillingham keeper Pontus Dahlberg’s double save from first Corey Blackett-Taylor and then Jayden Stockley’s follow-up.
The second-half saw Gillingham go in search of an equaliser with Conor Masterson curling an effort wide of the post just after the hour mark.
Blackett-Taylor then drew a low save from Dahlberg before Masterson blazed over the bar in the dying minutes as Charlton hung on for a vital three points.
Key Points
Check out all the key talking points and reaction from London Football Scene below…
Key Moment
Alex Gilbey’s strike just before half-time proved the difference to give Charlton a much-needed, if not nervy victory.
Moan of the Match
Charlton had plenty of opportunities to score a second goal and kill the game but once again failed to take their chances to set-up a tense finish.
Talking Point
Could this result be the platform in which the Addicks can use to restore confidence and end the season strongly?
Man of the Match
Corey Blackett-Taylor – demonstrated the quality Charlton have sorely missed with his pace and trickery continually creating opportunities.
Tweet of the Match
Referee Watch
Will Finnie (Bedfordshire) – a few contentious decisions to make but made the right call with the majority of them.
Atmosphere
The Charlton fans were buoyed by their team’s improved performance, creating an upbeat atmosphere while the Gillingham fans played their part but quietened down as the game went on.
Verdict
A much improved performance from Charlton ended their losing run with the Addicks able to say they were the better side for the first time since their last home win in February.
