A sunny but windy afternoon on the south coast saw Charlton grab a dramatic winner, deep into stoppage time.
With Sheffield United squandering a two goal lead to lose 3-2 at home to Oldham, Hudderfield being pegged back to 3-3 after leading 3-1 at Bury, and with Sheffield Wednesday being held to a goalless draw at Rochdale, it was a terrific afternoon for the Addicks. The victory set a club record 13th league win of the season on the road for Charlton.
Rather uniquely, a referee was cheered to the rafters before the game. A group of local soldiers, who had returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan, were introduced to the crowd and walked round the pitch accompanied by Danny McDermid. McDermid is a serving soldier and has decided to retire from the game. He will shortly be going to Afghanistan.
A large and vocal travelling contingent included celebrity fan, Jim Davidson.
Charlton were not at their best and the Cherries enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, had more shots than their visitors with a greater number being on target.
Bournemouth passed more accurately but lacked any real cutting edge, with the Addicks having the more dangerous attempts.
The downside of the afternoon was losing Ben Hamer to an ankle injury 20 minutes from time.
The goal came two minutes into added on time. A corner on the right from Green was headed towards goal by Kermorgant and was hooked away by a defender with Jackson in close attendance. The eagle eyed assistant referee adjudged the ball had crossed the line, to send the Charlton fans, as well as players, delirious.
If the hallmark of a good side is to win when not playing well, then the Addicks passed the test with flying colours.
Charlton: Hamer (Sullivan 70); Solly, Taylor, Morrison, Wiggins; Green, Stephens, Hollands, Jackson (Russell 90); Kermorgant, Wright-Phillips (Haynes 82).
Subs (not used): Sullivan, Cort, Clarke.
Goal: Kermorgant 90.
Bournemouth: Flahavan; Francis, Cook, Addison, Daniels; Fogden (Stockley 90), Arter, MacDonald, Malone (Tubbs 82); McDermott, Thomas.
Subs (not used): Gregory, Cooper, Zubar.
Booked: Daniels 79 (foul).
Referee: Oliver Langford (West Midlands).
Attn: 8,034 (1,827 Charlton).