Charlton reached 23 points today with a somewhat unconvincing win against Exeter City.
The Addicks, featuring their first altered line up of the League One season with Matt Spring starting in place of Jose Semedo, were the stronger side throughout the majority of the first half, it was the Grecians however who found themselves with the best chance of the first forty five minutes, Matthew Taylor’s header from an Exeter corner only being kept out by a goal line header from Charlton captain Nicky Bailey.
It was Bailey who would break the deadlock in the game at the other end of the pitch after 42 minutes. A short corner from Jonjo Shelvey found Lloyd Sam who moved inside the box with the ball and released a low cross to the six yard area, where Bailey was able to flick the ball into the back of the net.
Half Time 1 – 0
The 2nd half proceeded much like the first half, with both sides having periods of pressure but neither side being able to capitalise. The visitors again coming closest to making something happen, only for the offside flag to rule out a goal for Exeter.
Charlton managed to hang on and show why they are undefeated however, substitute Izale McLeod found himself unmarked in the area with the ball at his feet thanks to a error from Exeter goalie Oscar Jansson and without hesitation fired the ball into the back of the net to score his second ever goal for Charlton Athletic.
The fourth official raised his board to indicate 3 minutes of added time, and Charlton just had to hang on to their 2 – 0 lead. Rob Elliott managing to make a number of great saves before the 91st minute when Daniel Seaborne’s corner was turned in by Bertrand Cozic’s header to make the final score Charlton 2 – Exeter 1.
As the full time whistle blew news came through that Charlton remain 2nd in the League One table thanks to an injury time winner by Richard Snodgrass giving Leeds victory against MK Dons.
The Addicks travel to Colchester on Tuesday night looking for an eighth win of the season before the two undefeated sides of League One, Charlton and Leeds meet at Elland Road next Saturday.
Come on you Addicks!