Charlton Athletic's solid start to the Championship season carries a 'tinge of disappointment' for manager Nathan Jones after two more goalless draws at The Valley. The Addicks sit eighth in the table with 12 points from eight games, but have now played out three consecutive 0-0 results in the league. Jones said the team's defensive record is 'outstanding' but admitted the lack of goals is a concern.
Jones joked about his side's struggles in front of goal, referencing a long-range effort from last season. "One of last season's shots seemed to have come from as far away as Blackheath, a couple of miles from Charlton," he quipped. The manager also recalled a recent touchline exchange, saying that when he queried a disallowed goal against QPR, "the assistant referee looked at him as if he had just volleyed his cat." He added that the team is creating chances but needs to be more ruthless, stating, "We've got to be more clinical. We've got to be more aggressive in the final third."
Defensive strength
Charlton have looked sound defensively, suffering only one defeat in their opening seven league fixtures. That run earned Jones a nomination for August's manager of the month award, though he was pipped to it by Swansea City's Vitor Matos. The recent stalemates against Queens Park Rangers and a 17th-placed Portsmouth side showed that resilience, with goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo making a key save to deny Abu Kamara. Jones praised his defenders, saying, "We've been very, very solid. The clean sheet record is something we pride ourselves on."
Despite good fluidity in the first half against Pompey, clear chances were missed, including one by Millenic Alli in front of the travelling fans. The team regained control late on but could not find a breakthrough. Jones noted the team's performance was good but the final product was lacking.
Looking ahead
The quest for goals becomes more urgent after a 3-1 defeat away to Cardiff City last time out, a result that sees Charlton's recent form read zero wins, three draws and two losses. Top scorer Tyreece Campbell, who has three goals this season, netted the consolation in that match. Next up is a home clash with seventh-placed Bristol City on 10 October, a key opportunity to get back to winning ways. Jones emphasized the importance of the home crowd, saying, "We need The Valley to be a fortress. The fans have been brilliant and we need to give them something to cheer." Check the latest standings to see how the table looks ahead of that fixture.
The original report is at bbc.com
