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. 

2 years ago, in Round 1 of the FA Cup...

Charlton two years ago were in a similar position to which they find themselves now. Towards the top of the table. The FA cup draw had pitted what was then Phil Parkinson's side against minnows Northwich Victoria, a sufficient minnow for the tie to warrant a Sunday lunchtime ITV slot.

Parkinson fielded a pretty strong side: Randolph; Youga, Dailly, Sodje, Omozusi; Bailey, Semedo, Shelvey, Racon, Sam; McLeod. When I say pretty strong, I mean many of those players were usual first teamers. The way the season unfolded, I am definitely not claiming that they were all gifted individually. I mean, if you were a barn door, you'd feel safe when Izale McLeod lined up to have a shot at you...

The crowd was in for what they hoped would be an upset. The Charlton fans, already feeling pretty humiliated following their plummet through the football league, concerned by a blip in league form, and experiencing their first First Round tie for a long time, were extremely wary of an upset.

Three events of note in the first half. A header across goal met by nobody. A frantic goalmouth scramble. A wonderful reflex save from a header. And yes, you guessed it, all three involved Northwich on the attack. Charlton actually managed a shot in the 2nd half, but, of course, it didn't go in.

Large bundle of players following Randolph's
attempt to start a new dance craze.

The most vivid memory is of the goal. I hadn't really watched with any great interest. The result would only be news if it was a bad one for us. You win, well you're expected to. You draw, you get mocked. You lose? I didn't want to know about it... But the goal, the oh so humiliating goal. A header managed to get passed the defence. No matter, Randolph has been solid today, he will disperse the worried feeling by coming out and picking the ball up. But no. He decided to come out, then go back, then come back out, then go back again. It was the most jittery and utterly disturbing goalkeeping I'd seen in a while. All he managed to do was maroon himself to the spot, allowing an 18 year old substitute to slot it past him.

Disaster.

It was awful. ITV were lapping it up. Praise left right and centre for a team they tried to claim 'they'd always supported'. A pitch invasion at the end, for goodness sake. This was the scale of the woe. Addicks across the land were sat staring at what was an utterly shambolic event, unable to come to terms with the scale of the mockery that they faced on Monday morning.

It is the memories of this day that fill me with apprehension about tomorrow's game. The stage is set. A non-league opposition. A Sunday lunchtime ITV-televised game...

I should really feel slightly less concerned due to the squad we now have. Chris Powell has been a revelation, and his players have been equally effective. We no longer employ the uncertain 'shall we lump it?' tactics seen under Parkinson, but a better, more convincing passing style. Admittedly, this means we can be stopped by packing the midfield and employing Tranmere's 'lets kick the shit out of them' style, but still, I'd rather have it this way. I'm also more confident in our rotation players. McLeod was shocking. Benson is better (though some would disagree about Benno).

It would be unfair to write off FC Halifax Town. They've been promoted as Champions two seasons running, having emerged from the ashes of Halifax Town FC when they went into administration in 2008. Currently 12th in the table, they have certainly started the season well for a newly promoted team. Tomorrow aside, they are a team most Charlton fans would wish well in future. Nobody likes to see a club go out of business, and the resurgence is a credit to the people behind the new club. A quote from a recent Daily Mail article reads: "This club is for the fans. We are merely its custodians." What a brilliant ethos. If only every club was like this one.

Nobody knows what perils await tomorrow. The only thing I know is that I'll be watching the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix instead of the Halifax vs Charlton game. And if we lose? Well, at least we're top of the league.

Charlton 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday

League One, 7:45pm, The Valley.
Attendance 14, 014


The game: Charlton lacked a cutting edge in the second half, thanks to Sheffield Wednesday's gutsy and physical display.

On a cold and blustery night at The Valley, the Sky cameras were treated to what many would describe as a 'poor' game. Two shots on goal in the first half pretty much summed things up. The first shot, 3 minutes in, provided the first goal, when a neat passing move down the left hand side resulted in Bradley-Wright Phillips having a pop at goal from outside the box. His low effort powered into the bottom corner, near post, surprising many as it looked to be going wide. The goalkeeper's positioning was probably too far over to the far post, if I were to be critical. Despite that, it was a fine effort, and got Charlton off to a great start. Dale Stephens should have made it two, when a loose ball fell kindly inside the box. He had time to choose his spot, having run in from the edge of the area, but side-footed the ball over the bar. Disappointing. The rest of the first half provided little in the way of quality. The surface was slippery so long balls tended to skid on, away from players. 1-0 at the break. Satisfying for the Addicks but still work to do.

The second half performance was at best poor from Charlton, as despite still creating more chances, they allowed Wednesday to get back into the game, and secure a point. Clinton Morrison came on for early substitute Ryan Lowe, and was met by a chorus of boos from the home fans. How naive. Within 3 minutes, he had scored from a corner to make it 1-1 after 57 minutes. The ball was played in to the front post, where Jackson flicked it over Ben Hamer's outstretched hands, for Morrison to score from a matter of feet. His header hit the bar, but still, ended up in the back of the net. He duly celebrated by winding up the Charlton fans behind the goal. Revenge for his reception, and probably well deserved. the goal was hotly disputed by Hamer and Michael Morrison, who both remonstrated with officials for a length of time. From my viewpoint I could not see the actual finish, so have no opinion on the matter.

The rest of the game was frustrating, as the Addicks tried but failed to create any sort of decent chances. The main problem facing Chris Powell was his lack of an alternative strategy. There was no game-changer sat on the bench. Jason Euell was closest to it, but made little impact when he came on. Paul Benson and particularly Danny Green were sorely missed, as Green would have provided the perfect spark when introduced. However, few chances were made, and those that were resulted in goal kicks.

Wednesday played well, a victory for substance over style, as they say. The midfield battle was won by Semedo and Prutton, which meant Charlton were forced out wide, where they were isolated. Megson has chosen his style, as has Powell. I know which team I'd rather watch, but results are what matters and a point on the night seemed pretty fair for both sides. Charlton did not play well enough in the second half to deserve the win.

Charlton 1-1 Sheffield Wednesday (Wright-Phillips; C Morrison)


The performance as a whole was not too bad from Charlton. The defence was solid enough, though was put under little pressure as the game wore on. It appeared to be a rare off-day when things didn't go to plan in the attacking third. Powell needs an alternative strategy when the middle of the park is overwhelmed. I reckon he should look no further than Benno and Green. A deadly combination at Dagenham. Why not here?

Jose Semedo wins MOTM again at The Valley.
Even though he did get booked.
And doesn't play for Charlton any more.

Man of the Match: This has nothing to do with me feeling sentimental, but I have chosen Jose Semedo tonight. He was booed by the North Upper (what do you expect) from the start and I heard complaints that he was fouling, cheating and being dirty. However, all he was doing was exactly what he'd done for us for the past few seasons, if not better. He worked hard, broke up the a lot, even gave a few attacking passes. His effort and work-rate were again faultless. He did exactly the job Megson was looking for tonight, along with Prutton. Despite the booing during the game, he was clapped off when substituted. The North Upper finally had the heart to appreciate their former hero, sending him off to the sound of his legendary song. Well played Jose.

Ref Rating: 7/10 for D Deadman: Spotted most fouls, played a great advantage when Prutton cleaned out a Charlton player when a break was on. I felt there were few errors on his part, in the opinion of other fans he was very inconsistent, and Michael Morrison was lucky not to be penalised for a lunge on namesake Clinton. I agree regarding the latter foul, but still felt his performance was among the better I've seen in this league. The two linesman were pretty bad though.

Match Rating 3/10: A very poor game in terms of quality. Some attractive football in very small doses from the home side, but Wednesday's mentality prevented any sort of open game from developing. There will be many better games this season, though unfortunately for Wednesday fans, their away matches will probably be pretty similar to this one.