Bradford City extended their unbeaten home record, but were sorely tested by Karl Robinson’s depleted Addicks.
Nine shots in the first half alone, were testament to the new gaffer’s attacking intent. More was seen of the Bantams as an attacking force after the break, but the visitors then demonstrated their defensive resilience.
Bradford’s imaginative season ticket pricing policy – all seats are £150 – saw a gate of over 17,000 pack the Northern Commercials Stadium, including a healthy contingent of 618 Charlton followers.
Robinson is a bright, bubbly character who was happy to engage with fans when the team coach arrived. He explained the situation regarding illness, and added that he was one of those affected.
Morgan Fox, as well as Ademola Lookman, was ruled out by the virus, and Patrick Bauer played despite suffering from it.
But Kevin Foley and Johnnie Jackson were fit enough to return to the bench.
Robinson started with Josh Magennis and Lee Novak up front, Nicky Ajose replaced Lookman on the left of midfield, and Adam Chicksen came in for Fox at the back.
Robinson’s injury woes lengthened as early as the first minute, when Jason Pearce picked up a groin strain, and had to be replaced by Jorge Teixeira.
The opening period was played at a frantic pace, and the Addicks managed nine shots. Josh Magennis was at the heart of everything, and the Bantams defence could not handle him.
He hit the inside of the post, and saw another effort hacked off the line by Stephen Darby.
Jordan Botaka had a cross shot deflected on to the bar, and Chicksen was bombing forward and delivering crosses at every opportunity.
Bauer picked up a harsh looking booking, which was to have a profound effect at the end of the match.
The big German was dismissed after picking up
a second yellow in stoppage time. He will miss Tuesday’s Cup replay at Milton Keynes.
Bradford came into the game more in the second period, and it was a concern that the bug in the Charlton camp might affect their stamina as the game wore on.
But Robinson’s side dealt with everything that was thrown at them.
It was an entertaining game, with Magennis, Chicksen and Dillon Phillips being the stand out performers.
Robinson and the travelling faithful would have been pleased with their team’s performance.
Charlton:Phillips; Konsa, Bauer, Pearce (Teixeira 3), Chicksen; Botaka (Hanlan 90)Crofts, Ulvestad, Ajose (Jackson 76); Magennis, Novak.
Subs (not used):Mitov, Johnson, Foley, Umerah.
Booked: Magennis 24 (foul), Konsa 61 (foul), Bauer 69 (foul).
Sent off: Bauer 90(second bookable offence).
Bradford City: Doyle; Darby, Law, Vincelot, Meredith; Marshall (Morais 88), Dieng, Hiwula (McNulty 83), Cullen, Knight-Percival; Hanson.
Subs (not used): Sattelmaier, Vuckic, McArdle, Devine, McMahon.
Booked:Knight-Percival 76 (foul).
Referee:Mark Haywood (West Yorkshire).
Attn:17,968 (618 Charlton).
TAGS: Charlton Athletic