King Kermorgant, Conqueror of Leicester

Wright-Phillips challenges De Laet

Championship football returned to the Valley in stunning fashion on Tuesday night. A very strong Leicester side struggled to get the better of an energetic and clinical Charlton.

The crowd was a little down on expectations, but the atmosphere more than made up for it, as everyone was treated to a cracking match. First half was end to end, with Leicester looking very dangerous, often cutting through the defences on the left hand side with Lloyd Dyer. Thankfully, they had Jermaine Beckford up front, who was following the example of David Mooney last week, acting as a huge danger to the crowd when he lined up a shot. Still, Leicester's probing was a cause for concern, as often it was last ditch blocks or a save from Hamer that denied them a goal. It felt as if we would certainly concede at some point in the match.

But on 18 minutes, Pritchard stole the ball and advanced forward. His run towards the edge of the box ended with a pass to Wright-Phillips, who saw space to turn and fire a shot low into the bottom corner, catching Kaspar Schmeichel off-guard and sending the fans wild. It was very similar to his goal against Sheffield Wednesday last season, and it showed that he was fired-up and ready to grab his chance at Championship level. You could probably link the signing of Ricardo Fuller to Bradley's superb performance last night. His energy, commitment and finishing served to prove any doubters wrong.

Jeers silenced

Leicester continued to threaten, Beckford in a slightly different sense when he sliced a shot that might have damaged the big screen given he skewed it so far wide. But it was on 32 minutes that the lead was doubled. A long Danny Hollands throw was flicked on, and it bounced in the box before that man Yann Kermorgant hammered it in from waist high. He was ecstatic, as was every Charlton fan in the ground. He turned towards the Leicester fans, who had so harshly victimised him for his penalty miss, placed his finger on his lips and ran towards them. It worked. A jubilant Kermorgant was embraced by the whole team. He'd been up for this game before Birmingham, and it was almost fate that he would score.

Up until that moment Kermorgant had not really been dominant in the air, with the two centre backs proving difficult customers. But as the game advanced, he fought and battled until it was he who would regularly winning contests in the air. His defensive presence was also vital in protecting the lead.

Leicester went in at half time probably unsure of how they were two down. Charlton had not been dominant, but it was the conversion rate in front of goal that really told. Beckford's shambolic night was ended as he was subbed for David Nugent, and Andy King also came on. 7 minutes into the second half and a long diagonal ball wasn't dealt with by Rhoys Wiggins, allowing clever play on the wing to release Nugent into the box. He cut the ball back to the on-rushing King who fired home at the near post. Suddenly the nerves kicked in, and the thought of defending for another 35 minutes was rather a frightening one.

Leicester had most of the play, as the Addicks failed to keep hold of the ball for any length of time, meaning it was an extremely stressful second half. I was forced to watch from between my fingers, such was the extent of the fear. This was most evident when Lloyd Dyer won the ball on the half way line and sprinted into the box, cut in on his left foot and was in a perfect position to shoot. Thankfully, he fired it straight at Hamer, as so many others had done in the half, and the clearance brought huge relief. That was Leicester's problem, that they did not stretch Hamer enough. Most shots were either at him or wide (including a Nugent shot that seemed destined for the far corner. I was just waiting for the net to bulge, it was horrifying.)

Charlton's defence fought on. Last-ditch blocks, flying tackles (some timed better than others) and a glorious 50 yard run down the right by Chris Solly, who beat about 3 players before eventually winning a throw-in. Never have I seen a crowd almost on their feet to cheer the winning of a throw, but the run was absolutely heroic, and released a huge amount of pressure at the back. Leicester however fought back and won a corner in the fourth and final minute of stoppage time. Despite it being only the second game of the season, Schmeichel came up for the corner. Levels of panic went through the roof as the ref decided Michael Morrison must go off as he had a blood injury. The ball came in, but a header won at the front post fell to another defender, who laced the ball up-field. The ref waited a few more seconds, and then blew his whistle. Charlton really had defied the odds to win. And look what it meant to Kermorgant.

The crowd in the second half was superb. It could easily have turned into that edgy, nervous atmosphere that was so often a feature of games in our previous Championship stint, but everyone was behind the team. Each wave of attack that was repelled cranked up the volume another notch. Chrissy Powell's Red Army reverberated around the stadium. Goal kicks were cheered, tackles were celebrated. The whole crowd was 100% behind the team, and the players rewarded them with a performance that gave absolutely everything. Michael Morrison was everywhere, a rock at the heart of the defence. Bradley Pritchard never gave up. Danny Hollands tracked back endlessly to make important tackles. Wiggins was superb. Wright-Phillips gave it his all until he was substituted, and the fans rose to applaud his best performance in a Charlton shirt to date. Hamer caught crosses and blocked shots all night, keeping the dream alive. The pace of the game was frantic, the intensity extreme. Among the promotion favourites, Leicester showed huge amounts of quality, an indication of just what has been missed at The Valley in recent years. But Powell's side held their own, and fought for the win magnificently. A hugely deserved victory, and the final whistle brought an out-pouring of joy.

Kermogant's name was sung as he walked off the pitch. Powell stayed behind to applaud the travelling Leicester fans, who he so endeared himself to during his stint as a player and a coach. He the turned toward the Covered End, and in return his name was sung loudly. Two tunnel jumps later, an ecstatic crowd made their way home. A great game, a brilliant result, and a will that will mean a great deal to King Kermorgant.

Oh, and amongst all that, we signed Ricardo Fuller. Not a bad day really.

Up The Addicks.

Follow me on twitter, @ramblingaddick

Things the Leyton Orient League Cup defeat has taught us.

(Much of this was already fairly clear, but has been clarified somewhat following tonight's thrilling encounter...)

1) Don't ever attend a League Cup match expecting a Charlton win. It won't happen, and if it does, it was a mere blip, a temporary shift from the norm. Lethargic, disjointed cup performances are a trademark of this club.

2) Underdogs always want it more. The body language of the players during penalties showed this more than anything. Orient cared, we didn't really.

Jordan Cook made a very promising start to his Addicks career
Photo © Keith Gillard

3) Of all the wide players Cook looks the most skilful, threatening and reliable. Green wasted a plethora of chances, Wagstaff flattered to deceive, his play rarely resulting in anything of substance. (The goal was deflected in, otherwise the keeper had it covered.) Cook's trickery and delicate touches often found him space, before passing to a threatening position for one of the other two to miss from. His long pass into Waggy's feet on the counter set up our goal. His late substitution might well indicate Powell's desire to start him on Saturday.

4) David Mooney is still laughably bad. Three chances fell to him in the first half, with his best effort equating to that of a soft backpass to the keeper. The crowd behind Hamer's goal were always alert in case the ball came their way, but they needn't have worried given his shots are as powerful as a Reliant Robin (only much less reliant.) Early in the second half he pulled out the most adventurous dive, and bought Orient a penalty. Thrilled with his work, Mooney decided he should be rewarded by taking the spot kick. Few envy the crossbar, which took a hammering from his attempt. A miss. Substituted on 60 minutes. His performance served as a reminder of what horrors haunted us in League One...

5) Smith needs somebody to play off him properly as he struggles big time when isolated.

No longer will the FA stand for abuse. Of water bottles.

6) Referees remain over-officious. More pressingly, they have been urged to ensure the safety of touchline water bottles this season. It is now an offence to harm them in any way. Well, clearly it must be, following the 4th official's demand that Chris Powell must be banished from the vicinity for causing undue harm to the poor things.

7) Orient players were clearly miffed at their omission from the GB Handball team competing at London 2012.

8) Kermorgant is still my favourite player. Nothing will ever change that.

9) We can be too keen to pump the ball long in search of a goal. The cute passing game of the early first half was replaced by aimless long passes, of which none resulted in much.

10) Kerkar isn't very good in the air at all. He seems to get lost when looking upwards, unable to judge the flight of the ball, or even jump. His defensive ability doesn't fill you with confidence either, but he's got an exceptional eye for a pass. An encouraging debut nonetheless.

11) The draw for the second round is tomorrow, and we won't be in it. Also, very few people seem concerned about this.

12) Chris Powell can kick as many water bottles as he likes and we will all still love him.

13) Never read too much into a Cup match that really seemed to be treated as a pre-season friendly predominantly for our second string. 

Bring on Birmingham. 

Champions venture into the Championship - Charlton Athletic Season Preview 2012/13

This time last year, I wrote in my debut blogging piece that there was 'cautious optimism' regarding the new season. I don't know if all 20 people that read it agreed, but any faith that fans invested was well and truly repaid by Powell and his new squad. 101 points, top of the league since mid-September, and a side able to grind out results in the big games, something countless squads previous had been completely unable to do. Its also interesting reading back at how poor at judging the quality of new arrivals I was. Taylor and Morrison "are not great aerially". "It is unlikely that such a new team will gel instantly". Despite poor predictions such as those, I am glad I wasn't as far off as a certain "expert" employed by Sky Sports, who thought we'd finish 18th. Nice one Mr Birtles.

No performance typified those new quality Powell had instilled in the squad - of resilience, a will to win, and confidence in the players themselves as well as their team-mates - than the victory at Oldham. Listening to that game nearly gave me a heart attack. Two reds thanks to Mr Kettle, an official so eager to give out cards that he single-handedly kept Clinton's afloat all these years, meant that it was a huge effort required to win the game. One goal from Kermorgant after half time was enough, but it was the stoic, relentless defending that saw us victorious. In previous years we wouldn't have held on, but this is no ordinary Charlton side. With Powell at the helm this we've seen a much-needed injection of quality, ability and most of all passion from the players, who are in it for the club and not the money.  is hugely refreshing, and hopefully a trend that will continue in future years.

Guess who scored in that game. Yes, Super Yann Kermorgant. 

The transfer activity of last summer has been replaced this year by murmurings of discontent. Money has once again become something of an issue, and many perceived issues have been discussed at great length: 'Tony Jimenez alienating every board member he speaks to, forcing resignations'; 'Cash-flow problems have prevented new additions'; 'Tax bills staring us in the face'; 'A fire-sale of players is needed to keep us afloat'. Of all those, there has still been precious little in the way of official word on any issue. All we know is this squad is light of new players, but the lack of departures combined with the extension of some key contracts are significant positives.

Before I really saw of any negative rumours, I had this to say in a preview I wrote for a Bristol City blog, The Exiled Robin:

How are you feeling about playing in the Championship, a few weeks following your promotion?

For a number of years the prospect of playing in the Championship was one dreaded by Charlton fans that had become accustomed to finishing mid-table in the Premier League. However, this season is one greeted with much excitement following the end of 3 torturous years in League One. It is a very tough division due to the intensity of the games, and the persistent threat of the larger clubs being caught off guard by small, spirited sides. We were certainly on the wrong end of a number of results during our stay. This season however is being greeted as a return of our Charlton, which has undergone a significant transformation over the last 18 months. Taken over on the eve of 2011, and Chris Powell soon installed as manager, ever since pre-season there has been a hugely positive vibe about the club, with fans finally having something to be proud of. The squad that's been built stands us in good stead to perform well this coming season and with a few additions I'm sure we can make a good fist of it in the Championship.

What does your club bring to a tight, competitive and entertaining division?

Immediately after the sacking of Phil Parkinson the long ball, hit-and-hope tactics were thrown out of the window. Chris Powell has encouraged a more patient, passing style that worked extremely well early in the season when teams played an open style themselves. However, this does not mean we are a one-dimensional side. The addition of Yann Kermorgant in mid-September brought a new threat to opposition defences. We developed an extremely useful ability of grinding out results with solid defending, as well as scoring a number of high quality goals. So what will we bring? A good defence, a passing style, a few cracking goals. And watch out for free-kicks around the box.

What style of football/formation do you play?

Standard 4-4-2 employed by Chris Powell. Some have said he's reliant on the ability of the players to win through as opposed to having the tactical edge. Though with different attacking options in the air and on the ground there is definitely not one way to play against us. Teams that started packing the midfield struggled to cope with the ball to Kermorgant, whereas others were passed of the pitch. It will be a strong test of the squad and any new additions as to whether this can be maintained at the Championship level.

Who are the star players we should all look out for?

Yann Kermorgant: Though not the tallest of strikers, he possesses a huge leap that will trouble the tallest of defenders. Only Brede Hangeland looked comfortable against him in our FA Cup fixture at Fulham. He not only performs well in the air but he is extremely gifted technically, shown on countless occasions. Dropping deep to offer a killer pass, releasing other players, or just using his brute strength and agility to out muscle defenders, he really is an adept all-round striker.

Rhoys Wiggins and Johnnie Jackson: Left-back and left midfield combination that works fantastically well. Wiggins has excellent pace and loves to get forward on the overlap. Jackson can also cover in behind in adept fashion. Rarely do the two not manage to hit a cross into the box.

Chris Solly at right back. Arsenal bought Carl Jenkinson, the other young up-and-coming full back, from us for £1million last summer. After the season just gone, it is evident Wenger picked the wrong one. We aren't complaining though.

And is there an up-and-coming future star in your midst?

Chris Solly won the Player of the Season vote after his first full year in the team. A lot were questioning how dependable he would be at right back at the beginning of the season, but with every game he's got better and better. Despite being a rather short bloke Solly is almost the perfect right back. Defensively excellent, skilled going forward, and an extremely industrious player means he has firmly become a fans' favourite at the tender age of 21. And according to our chant, he's better than John Terry, too.

Danny Haynes split opinions a little during his time at Ashton Gate, what do you make of him & is he likely to play a big part this season?

Haynes arrived in January but didn't really break into the first team until towards the end of the season. Despite that, he made a significant impact coming off the bench on a few occasions. He scored twice in our final two games of the season to cap off an excellent spell. His pace seems to be a huge asset, and his ball-striking has looked fearsome in the warm-ups. Powell used him as a third striker to come on towards the end of games, with defences troubled by having to deal with the extra speed. Its likely he'll be used in the same sort of role this season, as well as on the right wing. Kermorgant threading balls in behind defences for Haynes seems like an extremely dangerous eventuality for the opposition, as the combination of skill and speed will cause all sorts of trouble. But that depends on integration into the team over pre-season, and again, whether Powell prefers Bradley Wright-Phillips at this level or dips into the transfer market for another quality striker.

What are your views of your manager?

Chris Powell has almost achieved legendary status already. Three spells at the club made him a fans' favourite, and many were worried his perfect reputation would be tarnished by a stint as manager, as it could prove unsuccessful. A lot of the doubters made huge noises as 2010/11 petered out with just 2 wins in 11 games, and the club finishing a dismal 13th. However, many of us kept the faith - if Chris was allowed to overhaul the squad and bring his own players in, capable of playing his style of football then we'd be able to judge him on his achievements. I think following his first full season in charge, there aren't any who don't support him in his job. He really has turned himself into a hero, overseeing the rebirth of the club. When asked about the possiblity of tarnishing his reputation, he was he came back in order to enhance it. Promotion is the first step in what could prove to be an incredible journey. Its important fans don't get impatient or overly expectant, and ensure they aren't too quick to forget the phenomenal success Powell had in getting us out of League One.

….and of your owner/board/Chairman?

There is still a certain amount of confusion as to who actually owns the club. New Chairman Michael Slater (not the ex-Aussie opener...) has done a good job in giving Powell financial backing. It was announced that long-standing board member Peter Varney would be leaving his post at the end of this season, which has rightly been greeted with sadness as it sees a true Charlton fan leaving the hierarchy, and potentially opens up discussion as to the motives of the new owners and board, still all relatively unknown individuals. Despite that, so far the main decision Slater made was to sack Parkinson and appoint Powell. 18 months on, things haven't turned out too badly. It'll be interesting to see what goes on this summer in terms of transfer dealings - whether there is an ability to purchase thanks to board funding, or consolidation with a handful of good value signings. I suspect it will be the latter.

What are your expectations for the upcoming season?

The lack of movement in the transfer market thus far, combined with the plea from Chris Powell not to get our hopes up, means most will just be happy with a solid mid-table finish, or a season comparable to Brighton's. Its unhelpful that the two clubs we were relegated with into League One - Norwich and Southampton - both made it back-to-back promotions, leading some to suggest that it is 'fate' that we are the third club in three seasons to manage it. There is optimism that something like this could happen, with a squad well settled. Any signings made between now and September will dictate the extent of that optimism, but many would say a play-off push would be the most to ask for. The risk of relegation is always there, but there would be a lot of surprise if we found ourselves towards the base of the table. A year to consolidate would do us nicely.

Who will be your big rivals in this division?

It is the first time Charlton, Palace and Millwall have been in the same division for a while now, so the three-way battle between the three of us will be of great importance to a lot of the fans. I reckon the rivalry with Sheffield Wednesday, who's fans seem to do a good job making the club unpopular, will continue as they came up with us (well, behind us, but still.) A win in a couple of those fixtures would certainly go down very well here.

--

Since then we've seen a few new tactical ploys trialled by Powell, including playing with 3 central midfielders and one more attacking just behind the front two. The board rumours spiralled almost out of control. But I still stand by all of what I had to say. We have to have faith in the board, there's not much else we can do really. Despite the actions of Jimenez in increasing his share of ownership the board have done nothing that means we should issue a call to arms and prepare to revolt. Yes there is still uncertainty, but holding together all members of that core squad from last year, plus the additions of Cook, Wilson and Kerkar, all promising in different ways, means there is no cause for concern as yet. The 2-1 win at Fulham implies that a number of those players from last season have stepped up a level under the brilliant leadership of Powell.

Tomorrow's League Cup match is unlikely to feature many of the players from that friendly victory on Saturday. However, the weeks of anticipation for the start of our Championship return are almost at an end, and a chance to return to The Valley, that sacred place where such wondrous feats were achieved last season, is one that many cannot wait for.

Light on additions, but high on confidence, cohesion and understanding, this squad is more than capable of holding its own in the Championship. Early season form and any further signings might define which section of the table we are fighting in, but a year of consolidation in this league would do no harm at all. The thought of returning to League One is just too frightening.

Jubilation for Charlton as Hat-trick of Brunton Park Promotions sealed

The whole week was one where the prospect of clinching promotion at Carlisle crossed all of our minds. Could we do it for the third time at Brunton Park? There was a chance, but one few dared dream of as the game approached. It required a Charlton victory and Sheffield Wednesday to drop points at Colchester to confirm a return to the Championship. By the end of the afternoon, those dreams had become a wonderful reality.

I'll cut to the chase, and avoid talking through the long journey north. All I'll say on that matter is the Lake District provided excellent scenery, as opposed to the other rather gloomy towns we passed on the way up. Brunton Park reminded me of the Memorial Stadium, where Bristol Rovers play, in that it was a mix of standing and seated areas that didn't quite fit together properly. 930 Charlton fans made the trip, and were in good voice, ably assisted by the drum at the back of the stand. When kick-off arrived, the extended wait for the game was over.

The first half performance was a nervy one. A scramble in the Carlisle box allowed N'Guessan a clear shot at goal, but he blasted the ball wildly over the bar. As it was at the far end, it was hard to figure whether a free-kick had been given or not, but it was a great chance that went begging. Carlisle were the better side for most of the half, keeping hold of the ball well and using it effectively. They also created more chances, including one shot that flashed past the far post. The Addicks' haste was shown by numerous long balls hit forward unsuccessfully. The odd chance here and there, but no reward for either side. Half time arrived, and news from elsewhere was great. Neither Sheffield team was winning. It was almost the perfect situation, but just needed a Charlton goal...

The second half started with much of the same. Again Carlisle looked threatening, keeping the ball and playing incisive passes forward. They were almost rewarded with a goal, though the post came to our rescue. Then from 60 minutes Charlton started to dominate. Pressure was applied. A glorious one-on-one chance was spurned by Wright-Phillips, and a string of corners were dealt with by the defence, with one bullet header from Kermorgant expertly pushed over the bar from goalkeeper Collin, who had an excellent game. Powell swapped N'Guessan for Wagstaff, a sensible move given that the loanee often was lost in the formation and Waggy would be more comfortable in the wide role.

The ball finds the back of the net. Cue jubilant scenes.
Image © Jon Laysell 2012 

On 76 minutes, another Johnnie Jackson corner, taken right in front of the travelling support, floated over to the back post, where Stephens nodded it towards goal. Wright-Phillips got a touch on it, and the ball gloriously crossed the line and hit the back of the net. We went mental. The players flooded over to us, Wright-Phillips fired up, Jackson and Wagstaff hugging him to bits. He jumped into the crowd, was mobbed by fans. Pritchard joined in, and was loving it. Other players came over. And still we were going mental. It was a joyous moment. The pressure Carlisle had resisted and the situation elsewhere meant that when the moment finally arrived it was something special. By no means the greatest goal that's ever been scored, but in terms of meaning, you'll have to go far to find one bigger than that.

Powell quickly moved to secure the lead. With 5 minutes to go the goalscorer was replaced by Matt Taylor. We invited the pressure, and managed to deal with it. Four minutes were added. The crowd was signing the repertoire of songs magnificently. Two minutes in, with the defence holding out, news of a goal filtered through. It appeared Wednesday had won it. Silence almost descended in the away section. They couldn't have ruined it now. Thankfully, the goal was disallowed, and once again everyone started dreaming. The perfect situation for all those that had travelled. A free-kick won by Kermorgant just outside the Carlisle box - no intention of going for goal. A throw in was won, and the ref blew for full time. Victory was secured.

A pitch invasion ensued, with a number of fans running over to congratulate the heroic players that had made promotion possible this season. For two minutes, we cheered and applauded, waiting the news from Colchester. And then, the final score came through. 1-1. There was an explosion of noise, and outpouring of joy. The dream had become a reality. Another surge of fans graced the Brunton Park turf. For one it was too much, as he knelt by the penalty spot and kissed the turf. Pritchard, Hamer, Kermorgant and Wagstaff all came over amid the invasion, cheering and celebrating with the jubilant fans. Nobody knew what to do, but nobody cared. All the players were embraced, including Yann who was mobbed by many and kissed by some. Pritchard managed to find the drummer, and orchestrated a chant. There was utter joy everywhere.

The players were called off. Graciously they were applauded by the home fans, showing great appreciation despite having just experienced defeat. Stewards attempted to inform the away support that the pitch invasion meant the players would not re-emerge. As you can imagine, this was not accepted by us. Nobody left. The songs kept coming, "We want Chrissy Powell" among them. The stewards pressed the invaders back into the stand, and a cordon of police enabled the promoted Charlton Athletic squad to emerge. They sprinted over and slid towards the fans. Then a wonderful moment of togetherness as the players bounced Chris Powell in the air. Celebrations and hugs galore. The team gathered for a photo. Still we celebrated. The same man that knelt before the goal was in tears, and hugged a steward for a good 30 seconds. Chants continued to reverberate about the rickety old ground. As the players finally returned to the dressing room, Powell walked towards the fans, holding aloft the "We Are Going Up" flag. He was overcome with emotion. The club that means so much to us also means so much to him. The sense of achievement was enormous. Calling him a club legend would not do him justice. even as the last players disappeared down the tunnel, Powell was interviewed. He had a congratulatory hug with Alex Dyer and Damian Matthew before taking a moment to let the whole thing sink in. He wandered the turf, occasionally brushing away tears. The fans cheered. He waved back. Not only our dreams, but his own dream, had become a reality. He had led Charlton Athletic to promotion.

Years of pain have been endured. For those there yesterday, it almost seemed worth it. The journey has just begun. Chris Powell has led this club from the wilderness, and for that alone, we love him to bits.

Charlton 2-4 Notts County

There was a sense of hope on the way to The Valley this afternoon. A defeat at home in midweek to Colchester was most unwelcome, but it was hoped the result would act as a kick up the backside and the team would return to winning ways today. Safe to say, that didn't happen.

Notts County fully deserved their four goals following
an excellent first half performance

The game started in the usual way - patient play from Charlton, but once again lacking the cutting edge. Notts County looked dangerous on the break, and took advantage of Jonathan Forte's lay-offs to move forward. The opening goal was desperately similar to that on Tuesday - the defence stood off and allowed a shot from distance, and Judge's effort beat Hamer into the corner of the goal. From my diagonal viewpoint, I couldn't tell whether Hamer should have done better, but I get the impression he should have done. Soon after, and this was a theme of the first half, County took advantage of an out-of-position full back and moved down the flank, putting in an excellent cross in for Forte to head in unchallenged. A disastrous start. 

Charlton then seemed to panic, and were desperately lacking in the basics. Too often County won the ball in midfield, and passes were misplaced. A bouncing ball towards Hamer's goal was shepherded by Taylor, but Hamer was indecisive and delayed his effort to take the ball, allowing Forte a chance to nip in and lob the keeper. A shambolic goal to concede. A fourth was added before the half as another ball across goal was tapped in at the back post by Forte, capping of an abysmal half of football from the Addicks. I am not a fan of booing, especially when we're doing so well this season, but the outburst of the crowd was entirely justified. It was the worst first half of football I think I've ever witnessed at the Valley following about 10 years of watching. There was a lack of desire, as County won every second ball, worked harder, and played much better. Powell would be thoroughly justified in giving the players a bollocking in the dressing room, and it sounds like he did.

Wagstaff gave Charlton hope by bringing the
score back to 2-4, but it wasn't to be

The second half was a vast improvement, as once again the goals showed that if you could get to the by-line and get a good cross in goals could be scored. After three minutes, Wagstaff ran round the left back and put a cross in, which both the keeper and Bradley Wright-Phillips challenged for. The ball looped into the air and Bradley's classy overhead-kick brought the score to 1-4. And before the hour mark, Wagstaff was this time on the end of a cross, heading into the bottom corner as the keeper failed to tip it round the post. The atmosphere at this stage was excellent - the crowd were fully behind the team, willing them forward, and there was a real sense that the most unlikely of comebacks was possible. There was a shout for a penalty as BWP was shoved unceremoniously off the ball as it bounced towards goal, but the portly referee said no, as did his equally incompetent linesman. No penalty, and the game petered out. The Addicks ran out of ideas and started hoofing it randomly forward. The momentum was lost and the game result that looked certain at half time was indeed confirmed. With both Sheffield clubs winning, the lead at the top was cut to 10 points, and just 11 points between first and third. 

What went wrong? The midfield was outplayed today. The first half saw County dominate there. They won more balls, passed more effectively and didn't put their own players under pressure, unlike those wearing red. Stephens has been poor of late, and today was another bad day at the office. He tries to be too clever and cute with his passing, which often puts us under a lot of pressure. Hollands was also weak in there today. Losing Haynes early didn't help, but in the 14 minutes he was on the pitch I can't remember him touching the ball. Wagstaff was very poor first half but improved in the second. Jackson, so often the key player, was ineffective, losing possession too often and getting caught out of position, along with the two full backs that contributed to at least two of County's goals. The centre halves were also poor today, Taylor especially. They backed off to allow the shot for the first goal and defended the crosses badly. The third goal was just a mess. Hamer and Taylor clearly had a misunderstanding, but as a keeper you just have to step out and collect the ball there. Hamer failed to do so and was left looking like a fool, with the ball in the net and the game effectively lost. Could he have saved the first goal? I don't know, but it was a very poor performance from him.

Bring back Hughes, I say

How do we change things? Well, I think teams are starting to realise they need to stop Kermorgant, and are committing fouls on him that prevents him jumping and winning headers. I think the midfield needs a shake-up, as I don't think Stephens is playing well enough to justify his place. I miss Andy Hughes in there. He allows Hollands to get forward and dissipates the pressure when necessary by playing the ball to the back four, or keeper. But in the main I think the team need to sort themselves out, as two defeats on the bounce poses a real risk of this becoming a slump. The first half performance and ensuing reaction should be what we need.

Onto Chris Powell. I don't think he can be blamed for that first half. His comments certainly show he was not pleased, and the reaction after his team talk certainly showed he's one that can give a half-time team talk.  The problem is we don't seem to be able to come out first half and be clinical. It often takes half time to turn things around, whereas earlier in the season things were coming more easily. I shared Powell's view that the first half was unacceptable:

Powell: "After you concede one... you respond. But it just wasn't there. We just didn't have the basics right at all. We made some bad decisions, so my dressing room at half-time was not a pretty place. My supporters here at the club love their team and they don't want to see their team do that. Stern words would be a gimme at half-time - it wasn't as if I was going to offer them a cup of tea. That's not going to happen, not at all. It was not acceptable for me being their manager. I will back them, because they have been outstanding for 35-and-a-half games, but that half? No."

10 games to go, and a 10 point lead at the top, but the jitters have well and truly set in. I want us to win this league properly, as we've come this far and played so well, to waste the chance now would be devastating. I have complete faith in Chris Powell to arrest this mini-slide and set us back on the right track. I just worry, having experienced the last few years, that nothing is certain at Charlton.

Keep the faith.

Powell has brought the feel-good factor back to Our Club

Victory over Sheffield Wednesday last weekend was greeted with such delight by the Addicks fans that we all rather forgot that within a week we'd have to take on the other Sheffield, another tough ask. In the run up to the game, there was still uncertainty as to whether promotion was really going to happen. I labelled the United game as a 'season-defining match'. It certainly was.

Johnnie, oh Johnnie JACKSON scores free-kicks for me...

Sheffield United started as the team in the ascendancy, creating a couple of chances. But Charlton won a free-kick after 20 minutes, in a similar position to where Jackson scored against the Wendies last week. He and Kermorgant shaped up to strike it, but it was Jackson who shot, hitting the top left corner this time. In off the post, what a brilliant goal it was! Charlton then had most of the rest of the half, playing some lovely free-flowing football, but United still posed a threat on the break. United had a goal disallowed for a four-player gang-block  on Hamer. 

The second half was not a classic by any means. Danny Green had two early shots, both fizzed towards goal and saved by the keeper. But it was mainly a defensive-minded Charlton performance, absorbing the pressure United applied. Hamer made a huge error, spilling a catch from a corner, then chasing the player and getting beaten, only for the ball to be fired over the bar. A big let-off that was. Russell was brought on to play in central midfield. In a passage of play where tackles were flying in and nobody could control possession, Russell lunged in (one-footed), getting the ball. Referee Darren Deadman (appropriately named) decided that it warranted a straight red, causing a mass brawl, and fortunately for the home side, a red for James Beattie. A picture on twitter shows him strangling Kermorgant. Justice, then. (Here is an image of it: https://twitter.com/#!/MiserableOlGit/status/160806050667315200/photo/1) We managed to cling on thanks to some great defending, though by that late in the game neither side was playing anywhere near as well as in the first half. Charlton took the three points, moving seven clear at the top. 

Season-defining match: Yes it was. It would take a catastrophic run from here for us not to get promoted. The recent results have proved this team has the belief to win any game, and they are proving all the doubters wrong. 

CP celebrates after the final whistle

This brings me onto Chris Powell. What a manager we have. Not only is he a great manager, but the nicest bloke in football, possibly even the world. Today might not have been the finest example of passing football, but it was the result that mattered. Powell has instilled in his players the belief that they need to keep winning matches. Not only that, but he has made some inspirational signings, and manages to bring the best out of players. But most of all, it is because of him that we are all in love with this club again. He is this club. He represents us all so fantastically, and certainly knows how to celebrate after the final whistle! He, and all of the crowd, were absolutely loving it as he walked off. Two tunnel-jumps and wondrous chants of "Chrissy Powell's Red Army" made it a really special moment. He has brought our Charlton back, and for that, we owe him everything. 

Chris Powell is our Lord: The true heir to Curbs.

Seven points clear at the top, with a game in hand. This has to be our year. Cheers to all the supporters today, you were fantastic. In Powell we trust!

One aim.

Powell salutes the crowd on his way towards the tunnel

Charlton Athletic in 2011: Revival

Former Chairman Richard Murray welcomes
successor Michael Slater

New Year’s Eve, 2010: Charlton Athletic had just been taken over by a mysterious new company, fronted by businessman Michael Slater (no, not the former Australian opening batsman) and Tony Jimenez. Slater became chairman and made positive noises about manager Phil Parkinson, though it became clear very quickly that Parky was living on borrowed time. After a 2-4 home defeat to Swindon (who were struggling in the relegation zone) the Chairman moved in for the kill, and removed Parkinson of his duties. 5^th position was not good enough, clearly.

One question had been answered – that regarding the confidence of the board in the manager – but another raised: Who would replace him? The fear (and yes, it was definitely fear) was that Jimenez’s best mate Dennis Wise would be installed as manager, and Sky Sports News were quick to report this. Constant checking of betting sites became habitual. Speculation spiralled out of control. Wind-up merchants and spam posters on Charlton Life were verbally crucified. It was, evidently, an uncertain start to the year. There was hope when it became clear that Dennis Wise would not become manager. Furthermore, ‘Our Lord’ Alan Curbishley was among the top candidates for the job. For me, this promised a return to the good old days, and a club legend’s return would have an undoubted positive impact both on and off the pitch.

However, it was not this club legend that was appointed, but another. Chris Powell joined the club for the 4^th time, following 3 stints as a player. He was a hugely popular choice, but did not come without his doubters. Many said he was too nice. Others said we needed a more experienced manager. But most were thrilled we had him back, and gave him time to succeed.

Chris Powell sent off, but the fans still show their love for him.

Powell’s impact was immediate. He won his first four games in charge, much to the delight of the fans. However, this was as good as it would get for the rest of the season, as the team slumped to finish mid-table. There were a number of frustrating team performances in some games, and things just seemed to go against us in others. A prime example was the 2-2 draw away at Bristol Rovers. Charlton were 2-0 up early in the second half, before Kyel Reid and Jose Semedo were both sent off. From the away end, these both seemed harsh. Powell was sent to the stand for voicing his opinion. We sang his name as he walked past. He’s learnt to keep his emotions in check a bit more since then. The nine men couldn’t hold out, but the equaliser was, even from 100 yards away, a clear hand-ball to control. Not only did the ref not give it, and the goal was given, but the Football League show didn’t pick up on it either. The injustices of football...

13^th position finish: definitely not the aim at the start of the season. Powell was criticised for the severe drop in form encountered after January. However, a remarkably high proportion of fans stayed loyal to our new manager. I was one of them. I’ll give you my reasons:

Powell brought in a new style of football. He wanted us to pass it, not lump it forward like we’d done before. This confused many simple supporters at The Valley, who every time the ball was passed backwards in order to retain possession, would scream “FORWARD”, and boo rather unsupportively. It’s taken a while to coach these minds that having the ball is indeed a good thing. However, last season, it didn’t really work. We had no natural passers in midfield. As much of a hero Jose Semedo was, he’s no Iniesta. This played a part in why form dipped significantly – we were playing a style of football that didn’t suit the players we had. Powell was criticised. A few said he was out of his depth and should go in the summer. But he didn’t have his own players. This was key – ‘once he had his own team, then we can judge him’ was the view of many.

Michael Stewart was offered a new deal, but thought
he could hold out for a better offer from elsewhere. 

I think that the failings of last season were vitally important to the successes of this. It not only has taught Chris Powell a number of tactical lessons, but also the importance of playing as a team. The club needs players to be there for the right reason. Powell has said recently that a number just wanted to reach the end of the season and move on. He didn’t want players like that, but those who wanted success. That has been a key driving factor behind the signing of new players, and has emerged from a question-and-answer session with Powell. Michael Stewart, signed on a 3-month deal towards the end of last season, was offered a longer contract in the summer. He said he wanted to see his options, waiting for a Championship club to come in for him. Once this didn’t materialise, he came back and said he wanted to sign. But Powell said no. He only wanted players who were there for the right reasons, and Stewart was clearly not.

This, amongst other things that emerged over the summer, has increased my admiration of Powell further. His squad is now both full of quality and high in team spirit. He has brought back confidence to the club. The fact that we find ourselves 5 points clear at Christmas, ending Huddersfield’s (disjointed) unbeaten run in the process, is a testament to the job Powell has done since he arrived less than twelve months ago. Yes, he’s been helped by having a solid financial footing in order to sign new players. But the style of football, the quality of player, and the morale of the players, staff and fans has gone to show that you should never write a manager off so soon. Within a year, his critics have been well and truly silenced.

2011 saw the revival of our club. Chris Powell has got us moving in the right direction again. We’re a club on the up. Finally, our fans have got something to make them smile. Here’s to 2012, the year all us Charlton fans hope sees us promoted.

Merry Christmas.