Charlton’s scintillating first half performance at Brighton on Saturday was as good as anything they have produced all season.
Karel Fraeye opted for three attackers – Reza Ghoochannejhad, Ricardo Vaz Te and Ademola Lookman – with Johann Berg Gudmundsson also operating in an advanced position.
The Addicks had scored just four goals on the road all season, but their blistering start at the Amex, saw them take a two goal lead inside six minutes.
Seagulls keeper, David Stockdale, had to be at his best to prevent Fraeye’s side increasing their advantage. One save from a Ghoochannejhad header was outstanding.
Such an attacking game plan leaves space for the opposition to exploit, particularly down the flanks, but Charlton were comfortable before the break.
The visitors were hit by a series of misfortunes as the game progressed, which ultimately cost them dear. Harry Lennon – making his first league start of the season for the Addicks – sustained a serious head injury in the first half, and had to be replaced. Lennon was having a sound game alongside Patrick Bauer.
Brighton upped the tempo after the break, and pulled a goal back early on. Manchester United loanee, James Wilson, robbed Alou Diarra in midfield, ran at the visitors’ retreating defence, and finished with aplomb.
Experienced frontman, Bobby Zamora, broke through just before the hour mark, only to be hauled down by Bauer. The German received his second red card of the season for the offence.
To hold out for half-an-hour at the home of the unbeaten league leaders was always going to be a big ask, especially with both central defenders off the field.
Diarra dropped back to partner substitute Naby Sarr, leaving the team short of its midfield shield.
Jordan Cousins and Stephen Henderson picked up knocks as the game progressed, but were able to carry on. Gudmundsson was less fortunate and had to be replaced.
As the numerical disadvantage and tiredness took their toll, Solly March’s influence increased, and Brighton snatched two late goals.
First, Zamora got the decisive touch in a goalmouth scramble, before substitute, Tomer Hemed, headed in a bizarre goal.
Henderson dived to his right to block the Israeli’s effort, but the spin on the ball propelled it backwards and into the net when it hit the ground.
To get nothing from the game was cruel, but the disappointment does not end there. Bauer will be suspended for the vital home games with Leeds and Bolton.
Lennon and Gudmundsson look serious doubts, and there are question marks over Cousins and Henderson’s availability too.
Fraeye will be keeping his fingers crossed that inspirational skipper, Johnnie Jackson, recovers from his hamstring niggle to boost his squad.
Before then, is one of the highlights of the season for fans. The draw for the Third Round of the FA Cup will be made on Monday evening.
TAGS: Charlton Athletic