Going Up, Staying Down

A STROLL IN THE PARK
06-Apr 09:29, by Ketts
Another disappointing result for the Addicks last night as they lost to high flying Southampton.
Charlton were beaten by an in form, quicker, stronger Southampton side at St Mary's. The Saints have hit form at the right time and are on course to accompany Brighton into the Championship. They now sit in third place, two points behind Huddersfield but with two games in hand.

Charlton had one or two moments, noteably an early chance when Racon teed up Scott Wagstaff who ballooned over from close range.

Saints are a side - largely built by Alan Pardew - who are well equipped to escape this division. Their physical pace is supplemented by their speed of thought and accurate passing.

Their eleventh minute opener was a good example. Lee Barnard picked the ball up near the halfway line, threaded a diagonal ball for right-winger Guly Do Prado to run on to. The Brazilian advanced into the area to despatch the ball past Elliot.

After the break, Southampton had more-or-less total control. The game was effectively settled in the 58th minute when Dean Hammond thundered a shot from 20 yards. Elliot dived to his left to parry at full stretch but Barnard was on hand to tap in the rebound.

Charlton had to wait until the 87th minute for their only shot of the second period, when Michael Stewart fired over from the edge of the area.

Stewart again impressed when he came on, his vision and speed of thought are assets that Charlton should secure for next season.

Chris Powell admitted his team were beaten by better side and a friend has told me that Paul Merson described the game as being a 'stroll in the park' for the hosts on Sky. It is hard to argue.

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