Apologies for the standard of this write up, Preview Towers went on a massive bender last night and we are feeling a little delicate.
The culmination of Charlton’s third successive season in the third tier arrives on Saturday and thankfully for all of our sanities; a fourth season will not follow. Promotion was secured three games back at Carlisle whilst the honour of being League One champions was confirmed last time out at home against now relegated Wycombe Wanderers meaning this weekend’s visit of Hartlepool will take on a party atmosphere. Strong rumours of Red Devils, pixies, confetti, smurfs, flags and Dave Lockwood in a dress should all add some colour to the day, leading up to the moment that Johnnie Jackson lifts the second trophy of the season for Charlton.
Chris Powell will want his troops to go out on a high though for two reasons: to put on a show for the first sold out Valley for years and to break through the 100 point barrier for the season. Powelly has already stated that it will be a first choice XI against the men from the North East, so expect multiple changes from the troops that commendably allowed Graham Alexander to sign off his career with a goal.
Ben Hamer will return in goal whilst Rhoys Wiggins may replace Cedric Evina if he can shake off a niggling ankle injury he has been nursing for a few weeks. Matt Taylor could get the nod over Leon Cort to renew his early season partnership with Michael Morrison in the centre of defence and it would seem fitting to reintroduce the vice-captain in the final game of the season. A decision needs to be made between Scott Wagstaff and Danny Green and my gut feeling is that the home grown talent will be running up and down the right wing with his buddy Chris Solly. Hollands and Stephens are likely to pair up in midfield with Captain Johnnie Jackson playing through a semi-pain barrier to lead out the team for the final time in this incredibly successful season.
Yann Kermongant and top scorer Bradley Wright-Phillips will both be looking to sign off the season by netting a goal or two whilst the bench is likely to be able to introduce various cameos for the likes of Bradley Pritchard, Paul Hayes and Danny Haynes.
It’s been a great season for Charlton in every possible way and it would be great to sign off in style with a 3-0 win.
For the final time this season, Come on you reds!
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Comments
Got all sorts of family coming to this, looking forward to it. Never sat in the North Lower before either.
4-0
And I predict I will have 6 pints before moving on to spirits.
or 5-0.
No, I'm joking, free flowing tikka takka tippy tappy passing all the way up the pitch, into the stands around the bar and into the goal, 3-0.
Dont think I'll have that problem as we will edge an absolute shocker 2-1.
would love ben hamer to come up for a corner in the 90th minute if winning by two. wont happen i know, but would be great.