Charlton boss has no gripes with Dartford’s physical approach – as they collect two yellows and a red card in friendly

Dean Holden had no problems with the physicality of Dartford’s players in Saturday’s pre-season friendly at Princes Park.

Nathan Asiimwe scored twice for the Addicks in the second half. Lewis Manor cut the deficit as the League One club won 2-1 in Kent.

But former Millwall centre-back Paul Rooney was sent off for aiming a punch at midfielder Conor McGrandles while Tyrell Miller-Rodney and Joash Nembhard were both booked in the first period.

Striker Miles Leaburn will miss the start of the season after suffering ankle damage after a poor tackle at Welling last weekend.

Asked if he was unhappy at Dartford’s approach, Addicks boss Holden told BBC Radio London: “It’s a competitive game. The two guys who made those particular challenges are on trial and they are eager to impress.

“In pre-season you want different types of challenges. We knew, speaking to the guys here, they are building a team that is really direct and physical – long throws to deal with and every set-piece was coming into our box from the halfway line onwards. Our young lads don’t get to experience that too often.

“I’m pleased to win the game – we’re trying to instil a winning mentality. We came up against two different systems in each half. You don’t often see a red card for off the ball (in a friendly), which we handled really well.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD