There are some games that are so dull you question why you have paid money to watch it. There are others that make you wonder why you follow football at all! After 45 minutes, Charlton v Bristol City was one of those games. One of the only games in the Championship that had nothing riding on it either at the top or bottom of the table, it appeared that both sets of players were already on the beach, in mind if not in body.
It is testament to Chris Powell's management style however; that he didn't let his side get away with their lacklustre performance in the second half, and the Addicks looked a different team as they kicked off towards the Covered End. It took just two minutes for Yann Kermorgant to break the deadlock, smashing in a volley from just inside the box. Just 5 minutes later, he had doubled his, and Charlton's, tally for the afternoon, heading home to deflate the already relegated Bristol.
As Powell perched himself on the advertising hoardings, there was a sense of 'job done' from the man that has steered Charlton away from League One and consolidated their place in the Championship for another year.
Whilst Bristol clawed a goal back with an excellent lob, Charlton were at it again shortly later. On a hat trick, Kermorgant attempted a cultured lob, which bounced agonisingly off the bar. Fortunately, the very impressive Jonathan Obika was waiting in the box to nod the rebound home.
Phenomenal leader Johnnie Jackson steered in a fourth to complete a comprehensive win for the Addicks, who end the season 8 games unbeaten.
With most minds in SE7 more focused on matters at Pride Park (where Millwall had a chance to get relegated) the game began with the air of one that didn't matter. Game of two halves is a common phrase in football, but the phrase was designed for games like this, and the Addicks showed their desire and hunger in the second half, and to great effect.
Following the game, the Charlton players made their way around the ground on a lap of honour, and almost every fan stayed in the ground to thank the team for all their hard work this season. This was followed by an emotional speech by Powell, who reminded everyone that the journey is not yet over, and that he intends to build and compete harder and better next season. He has made no secret of the fact that he wants Charlton back in the Premier League, and maybe…just maybe, he is the man to do it.
So looking ahead, where do Charlton build? Fans got the news this week that Yado Mambo and John Sullivan are to be released at the end of the season, whilst it also looks like Charlton veteran (despite only being 23) Scott Wagstaff may be on his way. Over 15 players are out of contract through the summer, so it's no rest for the wicked, as Powell attempts to strengthen his squad ahead of next seasons opening game in August.
The arrival of Obika and Mark Gower, both on loan, have undoubtedly improved the side in recent weeks, and many fans will be hoping that Powell can secure their permanent services. With the back five seemingly robust, it will be the wide midfield position, and perhaps another striker that will be required if the Addicks are to make a serious play-off push next year.
For now, Charlton call time on what can be described as a remarkably impressive return to the second tier of English football. The players have earned their break, as have the staff, and with the youth sides also having massive success in recent weeks, the future looks bright at The Valley. In Powell We Trust!
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Brighton finished 10th in 11/12
Charlton finished 9th in 12/13
Going back further, Leicester finished 5th in 09/10 and Swansea finished 8th in 08/09.