Carlisle boss makes Charlton League One admission and delivers verdict on Sam Lavelle’s equaliser

Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson admitted that Charlton Athletic were one of the best teams his side have faced this season in League One.

The Addicks picked up a point in Saturday’s clash at Brunton Park.

Corey Blackett-Taylor scored his seventh of the season to put Charlton 1-0 up in the 54th minute.

But former defender Sam Lavell equalised for the Cumbrians – bagging his first goal for the club in the process – eight minutes later as the two sides shared the points.

“We have got to be happy with that – they are a good side,” Simpson told Carlisle’s YouTube channel.

“Let’s not kid ourselves, they’re as good as anyone we have faced this season.

“The pace, power and the way they move the ball – that’s what we have got to aspire towards.

“We have to try and get to that level.”

Lavell made just 41 appearances for Charlton and also spent time on loan with Burton Albion during his stint at The Valley, leaving permanently in the summer to join Carlise. 

“It was brilliant,” Simpson added of the 27-year-old’s goal.

“It was ironic that he scored against his old club with the number of opportunities he’s had so far for us.

“When I congratulated him at the end, he said: ‘It’s about time.’

“But that’s the first and that’s always the hardest to get. It will give him a huge lift and we have got a point out of the game.”