Ryan Inniss received his first taste of action since November as he played 61 minutes for a CAFC XI side which fell to a 2-0 defeat to Brentford B at Sparrows Lane on Thursday afternoon.
The match provided a vital opportunity for some first-team players to get match action with Jason Euell and Johnnie Jackson taking the side, while new Addicks boss Nigel Adkins and owner Thomas Sandgaard watched on.
Charlton made a bright start with Eddie Allsopp and Alex Gilbey both forcing the Bees’ goalkeeper into saves early in the first half, but the visitors began to enjoy the lion’s share of possession as the half wore on.
Brentford took the lead just after the hour mark when the Addicks gave up possession in the centre of the park, allowing Aaron Pressley to get into the box and slot home.
Junior Quitirna sent a shot bouncing just past the post, while Ronnie Schwartz’s attempted scissor kick went just wide, but it would be the Bees who would score again with eight minutes remaining, and in some style.
Substitute Wraynel Hercules’ stunning volley from the right-hand angle of the box hit the roof of the net, leaving Ashley Maynard-Brewer with little chance.
Despite the result, it was a worthwhile outing for both Charlton’s experienced players as well as the youngsters, giving Adkins another opportunity to take a look at his squad.
Charlton XI | Maynard-Brewer, Matthews (Barton 61), Inniss (Taylor 61), Oshilaja, Purrington, Mingi (Powell 46), Smith, Gilbey (Anderson 77), Allsopp (Quitirna 46), Jaiyesimi (Campbell 85), Schwartz (Burstow 85).
Sub (not used): Harness.
(Photos: Keith Gillard)