When we entered Brisbane Road's 'Matchroom Stadium', Crispy remarked that the blocks of apartments on each corner were like the one in the Carlsberg advert. I doubt if Carlsberg had Leyton Orient in mind when they made their beer selling film but I can definitely see how a die hard Orient supporter might aspire to own one of the new build flats.
At one point, a woman came out to make a phone call on her balcony - wearing an apron so maybe her dinner guests hadn't arrived. She seemed slightly surprised to have around 2000 people looking up at her. It all made cries of "You're supposed to be at home!" seem slightly stupid as evidenced by the flags hanging over balconies, many of the supporters were at home.
Despite being roared on by a large following, Charlton went behind in the first half to a Tamika Mkandawire header from a free kick after a foul by Racon.
The referee was making no friends from South of the river, giving fouls for fairly honest tackles but the Charlton players didn't help themselves. Needless heavy challenges were made that the Orient players were only too happy to collapse under and claim their free kicks.
At half time I would very happily have taken a draw. The second half started with Racon being booked, joining Shelvey and Sam walking the thin line.
Charlton were gradually getting on top but some loose work in defence meant that we were always likely to concede again.
On the hour, Jonjo Shelvey managed to place the ball into the bottom left corner from just inside the penalty area.
Three thousand Addicks in the East stand erupted, (plus small pockets of people in the supposedly home section West stand.)
Game On.
With 20 minutes to go, former Charlton target and ex Palace player James Scowcroft was substituted. He had obviously got really tired from all the getting up off his knees after the constant diving and claims of being elbowed. To his credit, Scowcroft had managed to con the referee on numerous occasions so he had done his job well.
It looked as if we were going to have to settle for my earlier hoped for draw but on 83 minutes a woeful back pass was picked up by Deon Burton who cleverly lobbed the onrushing keeper.
2-1.
"We are top of the league!" we sang. (except we weren't, due to being second on goal difference).
An away win, for the second time in a week. What's going on? This isn't how Charlton behave.
9 points out of 9 and the feel good factor is back at The Valley.
Roll on Saturday.
Casual Rating.
A Sergio Tacchini 'Dallas' tracktop for Deon Burton. He looks very comfortable at this level and he took his chance well. His experience will be a huge benefit to some of the younger players who sometimes need to be held back a little.
A Primark novelty slogan tee shirt to the referee who seemed desperate not to be swayed by a 'big' team and their support. A complete homer.
