I never felt we were out of the race for the top six: Charlton boss Lee Bowyer after Addicks climb back to within one point of the play-off places

BY LOUIS MENDEZ

Charlton sit just a point outside the play-off places in League One after a first home win in three months – and boss Lee Bowyer says he never thought his side were out of contention for a top six finish despite the recent poor run.

The Addicks ran out 2-1 victors over Northampton Town thanks to a second-half brace from Conor Washington – one from the spot midway through the period and the other a tap in six minutes from time – his eighth and ninth goals of the season.

Alex Jones pulled one back late on for the Cobblers but the South Londoners held on for a first home win in nine to make it three games unbeaten and reignite their play-off hopes.

“I didn’t think we were ever out of [the race for the top six],” said Bowyer, whose side have played more games than those sides around them in the table.

“I knew if we stopped those silly mistakes and giving teams headstarts then we’d have a chance. That’s what’s happened. It’s the only thing that’s changed – we look solid. Solid and we look like we’re going to create chances. A long way to go, though. A lot of points to play for.

“We were very good, from start to finish. First 20 minutes, we should have scored at least two. We deserved to win, we controlled the game. If I’ve got one negative thing, it’s obviously conceding that late one because the back four and the keeper deserved another clean sheet because they were solid.”

Washington’s goals were his first in seven appearances but secured his place as the Addicks’ second-highest scorer – four behind Chuks Aneke.

Bowyer added: “With Conor, the one thing I do know I’m going to get is hard work. Unselfishness. At Wigan, his work rate was exceptional for the team, which probably some people don’t notice.  Today, his movement caused them problems from the start. We knew that he would case them a threat down the sides. They didn’t really like that, their centre-halves.

“I’m really pleased for him because he works so hard for the team, does a lot of the dirty work. The other strikers need him to do it. The other two, mobility isn’t really their asset. Conor works his socks off. His hold-up play is very good as well. Something he’s improving on.”

PHOTOS: KYLE ANDREWS