After the break second half an absolute pleasure, couple of sloppy goals and a meat pie with lava for gravy, couldn't dampen spirits, the smiles before the game made my day complete.
Anyone who doesn't think Cousins was man of the match, must have been at a different game. Awesome!
I can not believe Gomez is only 17. Pace, power, good in the air, and can pick a pass. He is the real deal.
And credit to Bulot, in particular, a constant thorn in Reading's side. And still running back and defending in added time.
Post of the day for me.
Young Jordan has played 38 of the 39 games thus far this season and looks as fresh as the day he pulled on those colourful boots on August 9th 2014. He doesn't stop running....either tracking back or looking to progress play forward. He is one of the most honest players I have had the privilege of watching. Histrionics, diving, "me" - all words omitted from the Cousins' Football Dictionary. A true role model for all our upcoming Academy lads.
I will admit to voting for Diego in last season's POTY poll, but I don't believe I'm the only Addick to admit that, although his flair & confidence on the ball was very impressive, JC probably deserved the plaudits for his overall play ( and of course, he was mostly being played out of position ) Keith Peacock hinted at something of this nature to me when the votes were counted last year & was totally confident that Jordan would collect the Young POTY trophy as decreed by Jose Riga.
This time, however, I have no doubts as to who deserves my vote.
There is only 1 other comment I'd like to add to the posts so far, which in the main echo my thoughts on this afternoon's game.
Apart from the 300 or so faithful who were fortunate to make the trip to The (Dis) Pleasure Beach last Tuesday, I don't believe anyone can imagine how tough & demanding that match was for our lads. I didn't expect to see Chris Solly's name on the teamsheet with his ongoing knee problem in mind, and, sadly,he didn't survive the warm up. The conditions in Blackpool would have taken a tremendous toll on those bodies 4 days ago ( as did the wines on me !) but the sheer guts & determination of this squad is a joy to behold.....the never say die attitude has been instilled into this team by Guy & Damien , which together with some sublime football we're currently witnessing, is achieving the results they deserve. And we're all winners....
A week in Tenareef ( as we ladies of a certain age call it) then straight into the Lion's Den.
By then, I hope all tickets for 3rd May's POTY dinner will have found a home in the pockets of our loyal supporters who have stuck with this squad of players through the good, the bad, the ugly and now once again the good times in this rollercoaster season. Let's make this one a supreme example of management, players & fans coming together, as one, to raise our glasses to one of the few things that brings us to the depths of despair and the heights of elation and all within 90 fleeting minutes.....
A high-tempo game becoming increasingly open and, on the visitors' part, overtly physical - in other words, yet another Cup-tie for Reading due partly to recent habit and partly to their somewhat uncomfortable League position.
An absorbing and exciting match for the neutral, and a feast for Addicks - this is Guy's 2015/16 pre-pre-season.
An encouraging show by the latest version of GL's match XVIII, despite depletion and hasty reorganisation due to the warm-up injury to Solly. A real team performance. Three comments on individuals - TWWW given a heartfelt one-on-one by GL when clearly upset about being subbed for his own protection, RoJo - ? is he so anxious to win a new contract that he is playing through some kind of injury or ailment : some alarming lapses in concentration; and JoGo - as I've said before potentially the new Beckenbauer. If he stays injury-free there is no limit to what he can achieve in football - I hope he is now the first name selected each week so that we can take every possible chance to watch him in our colours.
This season has blossomed far too late and is closing far too soon.
I watch Tony Watt in awe. His arrival has changed our energy and dynamics completely.
First half we were doing fine but Watt was going backwards after a good start and I watched his body language as he stopped chasing after a while and I think it's because of how little he and we were getting out of Eagles up front. I like Chris but is he really a striker - a number 9?
Anyway, Chris will have better games and is a good player.
Luzon is a magic man with his half time team talks - he gave Eagles one more crack , as well, which was sensible management but realised he had to change it.
Well done to the lads for a stunning second half performance - Cousins totally bossed it and suddenly we found much more space as we moved the ball quicker, our movement improved greatly and Tony Watt creates so much space for his team mates by his runs and ability to win back the ball.
Disappointing to lose the 2nd goal to Reading as it should have been 5-1 to us, not 3-2 but a thoroughly inspiring 2nd half and glad I travelled down from Liverpool this morning to witness one of our best football performances of the season.
Trips to the Valley certainly becoming rather pleasurable at the moment - that was a really enjoyable second half and I sat back and watched in awe the slick passing and movement that was going on. That was definitely up there with the first 20 minutes against Derby. And certainly the 3-2 scoreline was no real reflection on our superiority.
Just a couple of points. Firstly, delighted to see Morgan Fox play so well - and to see all the positive comments from others about him. I have simply never understood how this young man, who don't forget came into the team at a vital time at the end of last season and performed admirably well (anyone remember his cross for Jackson's vital goal against Watford?) has had so much stick from some on here.
Secondly, I for one was disappointed Simon Church never started. He deserved a start after his efforts at Blackpool and with Vetokele injured and Watt clearly not fully fit. Chris Eagles is a talented footballer but today showed that playing as a frontman is probably not a position he is going to excel in.
Thirdly, what a talent we have in Joe Gomez. Reminds me so much of a young Paul Elliott and Richard Rufus. I'm going to enjoy every minute of seeing him play because sadly, he is going to be snapped up by one of the big boys shortly.
Finally, does anyone know why we didn't name a seventh substitute when Solly went down injured in the warm-up and was replaced by Diarra (himself named as one of the original substitutes). Surely there must have been some other player at the Valley who could have been told to get himelf down to the dressing room and get changed?
Personally I thought we weren't at the races in the first half. Too many short passes and not enough urgency. If truth be told I wasn't pleased with any of them.
Great 2nd half and I've read a couple of views on here as to who we can attribute it too. For me, and the reason for our revival as a whole, TONY WATT. He has given us a face lift. Him being in the team has boosted JBG, given Cousins the opportunity to play and thrive in the centre, and more importantly, made us a threat going forward.
If Poyet could win player of the year on his half a season of performances last year, then Watt has got to be in the mix. I said I was gonna go for JBG, but the more I see of Watt, the more it is a pleasure to watch.
He is the focal point of our team next year and we must build around him. The run for the 3rd that he set up was class.
Thought we were comfortable first half and played some good stuff without threatening much. Reading's opener must have been their first shot on target but that fat Polish No7 always looked a threat for them.
Second half was just great entertainment and it was all over long before they scored their second. Very soft penalty, ridiculous sending off, Buyens scoring off his knee, Eagles heading over, Watt missing a sitter and then lining up a golden chance that even Churchy couldn't miss with a lethal combination of his left thigh and right testicle.
Sorry but still struggle to see the value of a central midfielder who doesn't tackle or head the ball even when if he does score two goals. Credit to Cousins that he is allowed to get away with it.
Watt brilliant but knackered for last 20 mins. Gomez a real class above the rest and Fox very strong.
Felt sorry or Eagles. Clearly a good technical player but not a striker and nothing much worked for him today.
Great value for money though. Keep it up Sir Lenny.
Haven't enjoyed watching a Charlton team as much as do now for many a season. This team has it all and is such a shame that games are running out so quickly. Roll on Good Friday
Thought we were comfortable first half and played some good stuff without threatening much. Reading's opener must have been their first shot on target but that fat Polish No7 always looked a threat for them.
Second half was just great entertainment and it was all over long before they scored their second. Very soft penalty, ridiculous sending off, Buyens scoring off his knee, Eagles heading over, Watt missing a sitter and then lining up a golden chance that even Churchy couldn't miss with a lethal combination of his left thigh and right testicle.
Sorry but still struggle to see the value of a central midfielder who doesn't tackle or head the ball even when if he does score two goals. Credit to Cousins that he is allowed to get away with it.
Watt brilliant but knackered for last 20 mins. Gomez a real class above the rest and Fox very strong.
Felt sorry or Eagles. Clearly a good technical player but not a striker and nothing much worked for him today.
Great value for money though. Keep it up Sir Lenny.
He's Russian and signed for big money when they were in the Prem.
Who was the Reading player that raked the penalty spot with his studs just before Buyens took the pen? Hate thlose kind of antics. Deserved a yellow at least.
Really enjoyed that game. Whilst a number of our players had decent games, Cousins for me was the outstanding player on that pitch. As well as running tirelessly for the entire match and doing the defensive midfield work that was needed, he was also spraying the ball around and pulling the strings in much the same way that a certain Mr Poyet was doing for us this time last year. Man of the match and player of the year as far as I'm concerned.
Fred for me had an excellent match and is rapidly becoming an integral part of the side. His larger doppelganger Jordan Cousins was pretty close to him and the only reason Fred gets my personal vote as man of the match is that Jordan misplaced a few passes in the first half it was that close.
As for other individuals: In defence "Martin Peters" Gomez again looked 10 years ahead of his time bailing out his somewhat shaky centre back seniors at times in the first half and surging powerfully forward in the second to create goalscoring opportunities. Morgan Fox was generally solid and I loved his "Les Berry" moment when he wellied it over the East Stand. Diarra showed moments of quality but I'm afraid I frequently had my heart in my mouth watching Johnson. There's no doubting his physical courage or his "geeing up" qualities but in a one on one situation he is reminiscent sometimes of Gary Doherty at his worst. We were lucky that Reading did not target him after his yellow card. The eventual result could have been different had they done so. Henderson had little to do other than pick the ball out of the net twice despite Reading giving off an air of danger when they did get forward.
In midfield Yoni looked his usual mixture of good and not so good. Not sure what he knew about his goal from open play but that penalty was sheer class. JBG was largely anonymous in the first half but came into it more in the second and it was no coincidence that we came alive as an attacking force when he did.
Tony Watt Watt Watt deserved a goal but our goal machine on the bench denied him with one of his own. Chris Eagles had a quiet game and it seemed to pass him by a bit. Jury still out on him for me.
Overall though a good team performance in the second half and we deserved it.
Last but by no means least great to see the Upbeats plus QPR and Fulham representatives so obviously enjoying themselves. Well done to the walkers in particular Badger who still had the energy after the walk to sell Voice of The Valley! Good to meet you again and I enjoyed our chat.
Loved it when Luzon went to get a sub on for Watt after the sending off and his sign language saying it's ok boss I've not lost it. Would have loved to have been able to hear their chat when Watt was subbed.
Great second half. A bit annoyed that the last goal went in as we deserved a much more comfortable scoreline. So pleasing to see Morgan Fox grow game by game, you can see how confident he is becoming and he's offering a lot more in the opposition half now as well. Pleased for Simon Church as too. I would like to have Churchy here next season as an alternative to Igor and Watt with another, more prolific striker. The chants of "Simon Churchinho" were uncalled for, I think, as they were obviously sarcastic. But he got his head down, worked hard and scored the decisive goal. Well done Simon!
So what about when we sing about Chris Solly being better than John Terry, is that ok?
I know somebody will say 'well he is'... But that chant is sarcastic, so are we supposed to stop that one too?
It's extraordinary to recall that a mere 12 months ago we were simply unable to pass accurately from one man to another, let alone move forward.
We were sharp in the second-half today: fast, fluent play with quick triangles on the edge of the area: Fox running to advance from the wing, Buyens piling in to the box. As the ball ricochets for a corner our opponents dare not look at each other: How did that happen?
Tony Watt is a revelation: his determination towards goal has fired the whole squad. Our third goal was made by his strength to get past the defender - leaning in with muscle and the ball at his feet - and hammering fast to Churchy to score against his former team.
That's it! Covered End made joyous again. Keep it going, lads...
An excellent and thoroughly deserved win, where immense credit should go to Guy Luzon, the players, and also the support. A game of drama and mystery, and I hope others can explain some of the mystery involved, but more of that later. We were unsettled by the late withdrawal of Solly, and it left central defence a bit lacking in mobility and pace, Roger and Diarra got through the game as much on experience as anything else. We started nicely, some really good flowing football, but we didn't threaten. After Reading got through that crucial first twenty minutes without conceding, they upped their game, and the bloke with the long name swooped on an opportunity and scored just before half time, slotted away well. In the first half I thought Fox was our best player, but Eagles was not that involved, and when covering in defensive positions I thought Yoni was actually a bit of a liability. We also switched Johan and Bulot quite early which was a mini mystery, because I thought they were both more effective before they switched. So losing, but not despairing at half time, and then the players returned for the proverbial roller coaster to come. We could easily have scored six in the second half by the way. The handball for the penalty was a mystery from where I was in the East Stand, but judging by the crowd appeal, the decisiveness of the referee, and the lack of protests it must have been kosher. Yoni is our best penalty taker since Darren Bent. After that it wasn't so much Reading panicked, than we upped our game to the point of being unstoppable. Cousins had a brilliant second half, driving us on and he was everywhere. Joe Gomez was superb, he is the real deal folks, and it was his great cross that a slightly surprised Yoni met with a deft yet forceful finish. Lovely stuff. We then proceeded to batter them. Eagles ought to have scored with his header, and then was replaced by Church who was unlucky soon after with a good shot blocked. The third goal was brilliance and ugliness in fusion. Tony Watt got through on the right with sheer willpower overcoming his body's screaming resistance, and Church simply could not avoid his cross, which bum-bit Reading off his shoulder, it was written in the stars that one. The biggest mystery, which I hope someone can make sense of, was the bookings and sending off. I can only think there were verbals going on, and I think Yoni got booked along with Watt, and their guy got a second yellow. We then settled back with our one man advantage and Mr Longname gave Reading some hope. A late free kick was nicely taken by Captain Henderson, and that was that. A really good win, and the double over Reading. As for our players. Henderson was ok, Roger and Diarra got through the match ok, I thought both Fox and Gomez were excellent. Yoni was poor first half, but a hell of a lot better in the second, but he was massively overshadowed by an imperious Cousins who simply ran the game in the second half. Bulot and Johan were a constant worry to Reading and contributed well. I was not impressed by Eagles, but Watt played his usual, easy to take for granted, game. He did miss a chance it has to be said, but I am really getting to like his style, and he is a huge pain in the arse for defenders isn't he? Church produced another good cameo, and Lepoint did what Lepoint does. In a game with nothing to play for, that was hugely entertaining, the match unfolded and revealed its exciting narrative as the afternoon progressed, and it would have been a very affirmative experience for everybody there.
I admire you, Seth, for your knowledge, intelligence, experience, and I agree with you. Don't forget that we were completely taken apart by Blackburn last Saturday - long balls precisely received and deftly sent to a good striker.
Compare and contrast Jordan Rhodes with Igor Vetokele. Rhodes is utterly ruthless; meanwhile, our man needs three touches to control the ball - then it's gone.
We were very lucky to beat Forest two weeks ago. We still need a good midfielder to get a grip of the game...
Trips to the Valley certainly becoming rather pleasurable at the moment - that was a really enjoyable second half and I sat back and watched in awe the slick passing and movement that was going on. That was definitely up there with the first 20 minutes against Derby. And certainly the 3-2 scoreline was no real reflection on our superiority.
Just a couple of points. Firstly, delighted to see Morgan Fox play so well - and to see all the positive comments from others about him. I have simply never understood how this young man, who don't forget came into the team at a vital time at the end of last season and performed admirably well (anyone remember his cross for Jackson's vital goal against Watford?) has had so much stick from some on here.
Secondly, I for one was disappointed Simon Church never started. He deserved a start after his efforts at Blackpool and with Vetokele injured and Watt clearly not fully fit. Chris Eagles is a talented footballer but today showed that playing as a frontman is probably not a position he is going to excel in.
Thirdly, what a talent we have in Joe Gomez. Reminds me so much of a young Paul Elliott and Richard Rufus. I'm going to enjoy every minute of seeing him play because sadly, he is going to be snapped up by one of the big boys shortly.
Finally, does anyone know why we didn't name a seventh substitute when Solly went down injured in the warm-up and was replaced by Diarra (himself named as one of the original substitutes). Surely there must have been some other player at the Valley who could have been told to get himelf down to the dressing room and get changed?
Luzon only takes 18 to matches, no extra in case of late injuries, albeit that Ben Roberts has used a third keeper duting the warm up at The Valley recently. The problem comes when you get situations like the one with Solly yesterday. Onyewu had to pull out during the warm-up at Ipswich as well.
Two months ago, I couldn't wait for the season to end. Now, I don't want it to finish. First half it was like watching (Alan) Brazil. Second half we were the real deal. Congratulations to Guy Luzon for turning it around. I take it all back... You do know what you're doing. The future's bright, the future's Red n White
Really enjoyed that. Second half was some of the best attacking play that I have seen in many years. Other lifers have summarised the game well. My reason for posting is to find out if there are still supporters refusing to attend The Valley because of the Duchatelet network system. If there are, I reach out to them with a hand of reconcilliation. Come home and support the team because you are missing out on some excellent football, and after all Charlton is in your blood.
An excellent and thoroughly deserved win, where immense credit should go to Guy Luzon, the players, and also the support. A game of drama and mystery, and I hope others can explain some of the mystery involved, but more of that later. We were unsettled by the late withdrawal of Solly, and it left central defence a bit lacking in mobility and pace, Roger and Diarra got through the game as much on experience as anything else. We started nicely, some really good flowing football, but we didn't threaten. After Reading got through that crucial first twenty minutes without conceding, they upped their game, and the bloke with the long name swooped on an opportunity and scored just before half time, slotted away well. In the first half I thought Fox was our best player, but Eagles was not that involved, and when covering in defensive positions I thought Yoni was actually a bit of a liability. We also switched Johan and Bulot quite early which was a mini mystery, because I thought they were both more effective before they switched. So losing, but not despairing at half time, and then the players returned for the proverbial roller coaster to come. We could easily have scored six in the second half by the way. The handball for the penalty was a mystery from where I was in the East Stand, but judging by the crowd appeal, the decisiveness of the referee, and the lack of protests it must have been kosher. Yoni is our best penalty taker since Darren Bent. After that it wasn't so much Reading panicked, than we upped our game to the point of being unstoppable. Cousins had a brilliant second half, driving us on and he was everywhere. Joe Gomez was superb, he is the real deal folks, and it was his great cross that a slightly surprised Yoni met with a deft yet forceful finish. Lovely stuff. We then proceeded to batter them. Eagles ought to have scored with his header, and then was replaced by Church who was unlucky soon after with a good shot blocked. The third goal was brilliance and ugliness in fusion. Tony Watt got through on the right with sheer willpower overcoming his body's screaming resistance, and Church simply could not avoid his cross, which bum-bit Reading off his shoulder, it was written in the stars that one. The biggest mystery, which I hope someone can make sense of, was the bookings and sending off. I can only think there were verbals going on, and I think Yoni got booked along with Watt, and their guy got a second yellow. We then settled back with our one man advantage and Mr Longname gave Reading some hope. A late free kick was nicely taken by Captain Henderson, and that was that. A really good win, and the double over Reading. As for our players. Henderson was ok, Roger and Diarra got through the match ok, I thought both Fox and Gomez were excellent. Yoni was poor first half, but a hell of a lot better in the second, but he was massively overshadowed by an imperious Cousins who simply ran the game in the second half. Bulot and Johan were a constant worry to Reading and contributed well. I was not impressed by Eagles, but Watt played his usual, easy to take for granted, game. He did miss a chance it has to be said, but I am really getting to like his style, and he is a huge pain in the arse for defenders isn't he? Church produced another good cameo, and Lepoint did what Lepoint does. In a game with nothing to play for, that was hugely entertaining, the match unfolded and revealed its exciting narrative as the afternoon progressed, and it would have been a very affirmative experience for everybody there.
I admire you, Seth, for your knowledge, intelligence, experience, and I agree with you. Don't forget that we were completely taken apart by Blackburn last Saturday - long balls precisely received and deftly sent to a good striker.
Compare and contrast Jordan Rhodes with Igor Vetokele. Rhodes is utterly ruthless; meanwhile, our man needs three touches to control the ball - then it's gone.
We were very lucky to beat Forest two weeks ago. We still need a good midfielder to get a grip of the game...
I agree Vetokele has been off the boil for a while now, and I have been quite frustrated with his performances. However we definitely weren't lucky against Forest. We were excellent that night and well deserved the 3pts
Apart from the 300 or so faithful who were fortunate to make the trip to The (Dis) Pleasure Beach last Tuesday
I hope it was a misprint in the programme but it said we had 210 @ Blackpool and respect to each and everyone that went ,legends the lot of you , but that's an abysmal number for a team who had 5 wins out of 7 going in to that fixture I know we all have our own circumstances but I don't think many clubs would muster such poor numbers in our position These boys deserve more than 210 Yes quality over quantity etc but lets not forget there'll be northern based fans in that as well
*come on it's been a while since I slated our numbers :-)
Sorry but too much happiness about at the moment kind regards Victor Len Glover Meldrew
Apart from the 300 or so faithful who were fortunate to make the trip to The (Dis) Pleasure Beach last Tuesday
I hope it was a misprint in the programme but it said we had 210 @ Blackpool and respect to each and everyone that went ,legends the lot of you , but that's an abysmal number for a team who had 5 wins out of 7 going in to that fixture I know we all have our own circumstances but I don't think many clubs would muster such poor numbers in our position These boys deserve more than 210 Yes quality over quantity etc but lets not forget there'll be northern based fans in that as well
*come on it's been a while since I slated our numbers :-)
Sorry but too much happiness about at the moment kind regards Victor Len Glover Meldrew
Pots and kettles young man. Pots and kettles. I am a veritable beacon of cheerfulness compared to some on here :-)
I was in a pub watching the rugby and we went 1 nil down. I confidentiality predicted we would go on to win - not been able to feel that gun hoe for years.
Plenty of great posts so I can only reiterate what has already been so eloquently said but I did enjoy the match yesterday and have been enjoying the football Mr. Luzon is serving up.
I didn’t’ think we were so great in the first half the passing was little off radar and we tried one too many around their penalty area for my liking but second half was a different story, we could have had 5 or 6 the penalty was a bit fortunate I have to say, but then again Blackburn’s first last week was a stonewall hand ball so that evens things up a bit. Strange, eccentric display by the ref god only knows what the dismissal was for but that seemed to perk Reading up a bit so we were served up a tense last 7-8 minutes.
What a change since the Norwich game, we have a new Talisman Tony Watt (who is Kermogant anyway) who creates something from nothing I sincerely hope he wants to stay, Young Gomez is a breath of fresh air and should be in the team every week great in the air, tackle and can pass like a midfielder massive potential, Fox had a very good game and seems to be growing in confidence fantastic to see.
Not sure about Diarra at centre back and I thought Johnson looked, once again a bit flaky but the real improvement has come in midfield where JBG has freed up Cousins to play in his best position, he will get my player of the season vote just love the commitment even if he does at times look like an octopus falling out of a tree. Can’t understand the criticism of Buyens I thought he had a good game yesterday and takes a mean penalty, Bulot was terrific in the second half causing their defence plenty of headaches. Eagles has quality and will be an asset although he doesn’t look like a traditional centre forward, Watt is THE MAN and good for Churchy to get another goal even if it did hit his knee.
So 54 points in the bag and the potential to hit over 60, if (and it’s a big one) we can keep this squad and add in the summer we have a side that can challenge for at least a playoff spot I just hope that Roly baby doesn’t want to cash in and we are left with another rebuild, still that’s next season for now I have decided to enjoy the ride and not worry about what comes next.
Comments
Cheers H, I'll have vodka. Be rude not to raise a toast to GL for his ongoing success.
How much potential has Gomez got ?
Jeez, this kid could go on to be the best thing to come through our ranks.
And I think I'm currently Diarra's biggest fan. Think he is fantastic. Sign him up !
Young Jordan has played 38 of the 39 games thus far this season and looks as fresh as the day he pulled on those colourful boots on August 9th 2014. He doesn't stop running....either tracking back or looking to progress play forward. He is one of the most honest players I have had the privilege of watching. Histrionics, diving, "me" - all words omitted from the Cousins' Football Dictionary. A true role model for all our upcoming Academy lads.
I will admit to voting for Diego in last season's POTY poll, but I don't believe I'm the only Addick to admit that, although his flair & confidence on the ball was very impressive, JC probably deserved the plaudits for his overall play ( and of course, he was mostly being played out of position ) Keith Peacock hinted at something of this nature to me when the votes were counted last year & was totally confident that Jordan would collect the Young POTY trophy as decreed by Jose Riga.
This time, however, I have no doubts as to who deserves my vote.
There is only 1 other comment I'd like to add to the posts so far, which in the main echo my thoughts on this afternoon's game.
Apart from the 300 or so faithful who were fortunate to make the trip to The (Dis) Pleasure Beach last Tuesday, I don't believe anyone can imagine how tough & demanding that match was for our lads. I didn't expect to see Chris Solly's name on the teamsheet with his ongoing knee problem in mind, and, sadly,he didn't survive the warm up. The conditions in Blackpool would have taken a tremendous toll on those bodies 4 days ago ( as did the wines on me !) but the sheer guts & determination of this squad is a joy to behold.....the never say die attitude has been instilled into this team by Guy & Damien , which together with some sublime football we're currently witnessing, is achieving the results they deserve. And we're all winners....
A week in Tenareef ( as we ladies of a certain age call it) then straight into the Lion's Den.
By then, I hope all tickets for 3rd May's POTY dinner will have found a home in the pockets of our loyal supporters who have stuck with this squad of players through the good, the bad, the ugly and now once again the good times in this rollercoaster season. Let's make this one a supreme example of management, players & fans coming together, as one, to raise our glasses to one of the few things that brings us to the depths of despair and the heights of elation and all within 90 fleeting minutes.....
Our Club, Charlton Athletic .
Onwards & upwards together !
A high-tempo game becoming increasingly open and, on the visitors' part, overtly physical - in other words, yet another Cup-tie for Reading due partly to recent habit and partly to their somewhat uncomfortable League position.
An absorbing and exciting match for the neutral, and a feast for Addicks - this is Guy's 2015/16 pre-pre-season.
An encouraging show by the latest version of GL's match XVIII, despite depletion and hasty reorganisation due to the warm-up injury to Solly. A real team performance. Three comments on individuals - TWWW given a heartfelt one-on-one by GL when clearly upset about being subbed for his own protection, RoJo - ? is he so anxious to win a new contract that he is playing through some kind of injury or ailment : some alarming lapses in concentration; and JoGo - as I've said before potentially the new Beckenbauer. If he stays injury-free there is no limit to what he can achieve in football - I hope he is now the first name selected each week so that we can take every possible chance to watch him in our colours.
This season has blossomed far too late and is closing far too soon.
His arrival has changed our energy and dynamics completely.
First half we were doing fine but Watt was going backwards after a good start and I watched his body language as he stopped chasing after a while and I think it's because of how little he and we were getting out of Eagles up front.
I like Chris but is he really a striker - a number 9?
Anyway, Chris will have better games and is a good player.
Luzon is a magic man with his half time team talks - he gave Eagles one more crack , as well, which was sensible management but realised he had to change it.
Well done to the lads for a stunning second half performance - Cousins totally bossed it and suddenly we found much more space as we moved the ball quicker, our movement improved greatly and Tony Watt creates so much space for his team mates by his runs and ability to win back the ball.
Disappointing to lose the 2nd goal to Reading as it should have been 5-1 to us, not 3-2 but a thoroughly inspiring 2nd half and glad I travelled down from Liverpool this morning to witness one of our best football performances of the season.
Just a couple of points. Firstly, delighted to see Morgan Fox play so well - and to see all the positive comments from others about him. I have simply never understood how this young man, who don't forget came into the team at a vital time at the end of last season and performed admirably well (anyone remember his cross for Jackson's vital goal against Watford?) has had so much stick from some on here.
Secondly, I for one was disappointed Simon Church never started. He deserved a start after his efforts at Blackpool and with Vetokele injured and Watt clearly not fully fit. Chris Eagles is a talented footballer but today showed that playing as a frontman is probably not a position he is going to excel in.
Thirdly, what a talent we have in Joe Gomez. Reminds me so much of a young Paul Elliott and Richard Rufus. I'm going to enjoy every minute of seeing him play because sadly, he is going to be snapped up by one of the big boys shortly.
Finally, does anyone know why we didn't name a seventh substitute when Solly went down injured in the warm-up and was replaced by Diarra (himself named as one of the original substitutes). Surely there must have been some other player at the Valley who could have been told to get himelf down to the dressing room and get changed?
Great 2nd half and I've read a couple of views on here as to who we can attribute it too. For me, and the reason for our revival as a whole, TONY WATT. He has given us a face lift. Him being in the team has boosted JBG, given Cousins the opportunity to play and thrive in the centre, and more importantly, made us a threat going forward.
If Poyet could win player of the year on his half a season of performances last year, then Watt has got to be in the mix. I said I was gonna go for JBG, but the more I see of Watt, the more it is a pleasure to watch.
He is the focal point of our team next year and we must build around him. The run for the 3rd that he set up was class.
Really enjoyed that.
Thought we were comfortable first half and played some good stuff without threatening much. Reading's opener must have been their first shot on target but that fat Polish No7 always looked a threat for them.
Second half was just great entertainment and it was all over long before they scored their second. Very soft penalty, ridiculous sending off, Buyens scoring off his knee, Eagles heading over, Watt missing a sitter and then lining up a golden chance that even Churchy couldn't miss with a lethal combination of his left thigh and right testicle.
Sorry but still struggle to see the value of a central midfielder who doesn't tackle or head the ball even when if he does score two goals. Credit to Cousins that he is allowed to get away with it.
Watt brilliant but knackered for last 20 mins. Gomez a real class above the rest and Fox very strong.
Felt sorry or Eagles. Clearly a good technical player but not a striker and nothing much worked for him today.
Great value for money though. Keep it up Sir Lenny.
Fred for me had an excellent match and is rapidly becoming an integral part of the side. His larger doppelganger Jordan Cousins was pretty close to him and the only reason Fred gets my personal vote as man of the match is that Jordan misplaced a few passes in the first half it was that close.
As for other individuals: In defence "Martin Peters" Gomez again looked 10 years ahead of his time bailing out his somewhat shaky centre back seniors at times in the first half and surging powerfully forward in the second to create goalscoring opportunities. Morgan Fox was generally solid and I loved his "Les Berry" moment when he wellied it over the East Stand. Diarra showed moments of quality but I'm afraid I frequently had my heart in my mouth watching Johnson. There's no doubting his physical courage or his "geeing up" qualities but in a one on one situation he is reminiscent sometimes of Gary Doherty at his worst. We were lucky that Reading did not target him after his yellow card. The eventual result could have been different had they done so. Henderson had little to do other than pick the ball out of the net twice despite Reading giving off an air of danger when they did get forward.
In midfield Yoni looked his usual mixture of good and not so good. Not sure what he knew about his goal from open play but that penalty was sheer class. JBG was largely anonymous in the first half but came into it more in the second and it was no coincidence that we came alive as an attacking force when he did.
Tony Watt Watt Watt deserved a goal but our goal machine on the bench denied him with one of his own. Chris Eagles had a quiet game and it seemed to pass him by a bit. Jury still out on him for me.
Overall though a good team performance in the second half and we deserved it.
Last but by no means least great to see the Upbeats plus QPR and Fulham representatives so obviously enjoying themselves. Well done to the walkers in particular Badger who still had the energy after the walk to sell Voice of The Valley! Good to meet you again and I enjoyed our chat.
COYR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Loved it when Luzon went to get a sub on for Watt after the sending off and his sign language saying it's ok boss I've not lost it. Would have loved to have been able to hear their chat when Watt was subbed.
Luzons cheeky kick up his arse made me chuckle.
I know somebody will say 'well he is'... But that chant is sarcastic, so are we supposed to stop that one too?
We were sharp in the second-half today: fast, fluent play with quick triangles on the edge of the area: Fox running to advance from the wing, Buyens piling in to the box. As the ball ricochets for a corner our opponents dare not look at each other: How did that happen?
Tony Watt is a revelation: his determination towards goal has fired the whole squad. Our third goal was made by his strength to get past the defender - leaning in with muscle and the ball at his feet - and hammering fast to Churchy to score against his former team.
That's it! Covered End made joyous again. Keep it going, lads...
Compare and contrast Jordan Rhodes with Igor Vetokele. Rhodes is utterly ruthless; meanwhile, our man needs three touches to control the ball - then it's gone.
We were very lucky to beat Forest two weeks ago. We still need a good midfielder to get a grip of the game...
I know we all have our own circumstances but I don't think many clubs would muster such poor numbers in our position
These boys deserve more than 210
Yes quality over quantity etc but lets not forget there'll be northern based fans in that as well
*come on it's been a while since I slated our numbers :-)
Sorry but too much happiness about at the moment
kind regards
Victor Len Glover Meldrew
Lovin' it.
5, 10, 12 matches, by May, June, July, August, September, October, November, DecemberJanuary.I didn’t’ think we were so great in the first half the passing was little off radar and we tried one too many around their penalty area for my liking but second half was a different story, we could have had 5 or 6 the penalty was a bit fortunate I have to say, but then again Blackburn’s first last week was a stonewall hand ball so that evens things up a bit. Strange, eccentric display by the ref god only knows what the dismissal was for but that seemed to perk Reading up a bit so we were served up a tense last 7-8 minutes.
What a change since the Norwich game, we have a new Talisman Tony Watt (who is Kermogant anyway) who creates something from nothing I sincerely hope he wants to stay, Young Gomez is a breath of fresh air and should be in the team every week great in the air, tackle and can pass like a midfielder massive potential, Fox had a very good game and seems to be growing in confidence fantastic to see.
Not sure about Diarra at centre back and I thought Johnson looked, once again a bit flaky but the real improvement has come in midfield where JBG has freed up Cousins to play in his best position, he will get my player of the season vote just love the commitment even if he does at times look like an octopus falling out of a tree. Can’t understand the criticism of Buyens I thought he had a good game yesterday and takes a mean penalty, Bulot was terrific in the second half causing their defence plenty of headaches. Eagles has quality and will be an asset although he doesn’t look like a traditional centre forward, Watt is THE MAN and good for Churchy to get another goal even if it did hit his knee.
So 54 points in the bag and the potential to hit over 60, if (and it’s a big one) we can keep this squad and add in the summer we have a side that can challenge for at least a playoff spot I just hope that Roly baby doesn’t want to cash in and we are left with another rebuild, still that’s next season for now I have decided to enjoy the ride and not worry about what comes next.