The Perfect Storm...

 Dark clouds over The Valley but smiles inside!

I like to think of myself as a pretty good judge of character and it's been some considerable time since I have felt this proud of a Charlton team who look and act like they are giving their all for my club. As a football fan in this day and age you are made to feel a bit foolish and naive, not least of all embarrassed, in believing your players give a shit, but I'm happy to lay myself bare. I trust Chris Powell 100%. I can't love the man more and I can't be more proud of his charges.

 

Last night was a great example of why I know in my heart I could never give up on football. The Valley at night is pure magic. Ever since my Grandad introduced this game to me as a very young lad I have never tired of those magic moments that make you rise to your feet in utter delirium. I lost count of the times I stood to applaud the efforts of my team throughout the game. Charlton's return to the Championship has started with all the momentum and spirit that was generated in last seasons title winning season. Just how far can this group of players go?

 

Just like a perfect storm, Sir Chris has bought together a group of hungry young players and one or two older heads to guide them along. They have collided in the most dramatic fashion. Johnnie Jackson is as good a leader as I can recall since Kinsella.  

 

All across the park Charlton worked their socks off so I could go home happy. Leicester showed why they're one of the favourites to go up, particularly in the second half, but we got our noses in front and held on to the lead. BWP played his best game for the club and was my MOM, narrowly beating Morrison, who was an absolute rock. Effervescent Pritchard continues to rise and gain popularity with the Addicted. Hamer was always steady and assured. Holland and Stephens looked comfortable and confident in midfield. And then there was Yann. What more can be said about our French warrior? He will never again play for a football club that will take him to their hearts as the Addickted have.

Further positives for Charlton saw Ricardo Fuller paraded in front of the Valley faithful at half time. Signed on a years contract, he could well be a very handy acquisition. Moreover, it also serves to poor more cold water on the doom and gloom rumours that we're skint. 

 

There will be plenty of tough games ahead, starting with Hull this Saturday, but already Charlton have proved they can compete in this division. Where all this will end up I just don't know. But I intend to savour every single minute of it!