No Alfie May action as Charlton beat Dartford – with former Millwall defender sent off for attempted punch

Charlton Athletic made it two wins out of two pre-season tune-ups as they finished 2-1 victors at Dartford this afternoon.

Nathan Asiimwe’s second-half double put Charlton in control before Lewis Manor cut the deficit.

But this pre-season friendly had plenty of bite with Tyrell Miller-Rodney and Joash Nembhard both cautioned before former Millwall centre-back Paul Rooney was shown a straight red card for swinging a punch at Conor McGrandles.

Those in the 2,804 crowd hoping to see Charlton new boy Alfie May in action were to be disappointed with Friday’s signing from Cheltenham Town not involved before the club’s training camp in Spain but there were first pre-season minutes in the bank for Michael Hector.

Manager Dean Holden once again opted to change all 11 players at the interval, as he did in last weekend’s 4-0 win over Welling United.

Charlton struggled to create in the opening 45 minutes although Dartford keeper Mitchell Beeney did turn away Diallang Jaiyesimi’s shot just before the opening 45 minutes came to an end.

The Addicks had greater penetration and purpose in the second half and their opening goal saw them patiently work the ball across the home penalty area with short and sharp passes, Corey Blackett-Taylor’s cross was headed in at the back post by right wing-back Asiimwe in the 57th minute.

And the academy product did not have to wait long before he added another, thumping in with his right foot from close range.

Dartford pulled one back when Corey Blackett-Taylor lost possession and Brandon Barzey drove down the right of the penalty area, presenting Manor with a simple tap-in at the back post.

Rooney was dismissed by referee George Warren. The Dartford midfielder tripped Conor McGrandles off the ball and then attempted to lash out after being grabbed by the Charlton man.

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD