Charlton skipper Greg Docherty urges side to learn from first League One defeat of the campaign
Charlton Athletic captain Greg Docherty has urged his teammates to learn the lessons from their first league defeat of the campaign.
The Addicks suffered a 2-0 reverse at Reading – a result that ended the 100 per cent start to their League One season.
Both of the Royals’ goals came in a second-half that the South Londoners were on top in, after soaking up a bit of pressure before the break.
The skipper, signed from Hull City in the summer, said: “First-half we were a yard or two off it. We made some tweaks at half-time. We defended the box really well though, first-half. That’s going to happen. There’s good teams in this league, all across the board. Good individual players. We should have gone in ahead, right on half-time. The goalie made a good save.
“We came out fighting second-half and were well on top. Chance after chance, getting into really dangerous areas. But we’re done with a bit of individual quality for them. A sucker-punch from our end. The reaction was good. But the second goal just can’t happen.
“We know that as a team. For them to score from our corner. It was our throw in which was a frustrating thing but we don’t react well enough. Decisions are going to go against you and it’s a huge learning curve today.
“We were really on top. That’s the frustrating thing. But that’s this league. This league is relentless. It can kick you when you least expect it. We were on top and conceded. But we reacted well. We brought on some good players. We’re going to concede goals, it’s going to happen. But we need to look at the overall picture here today. It was disappointing.
“We had a real good following, and we weren’t able to get the win for them, or at least the draw which is what we deserved. Nine points from 12, a new team. Overall, you’d have taken that at the start of the season.”
Docherty was handed the armband by boss Nathan Jones upon his arrival in SE7 – and he says he is relishing the role.
“Really enjoying it,” explained the 27-year-old midfielder.
“A lot of responsibility but I feel like we’ve got a lot of leaders in this team. Grateful to be in this position. I’m enjoying the role, enjoying being part of this club. Enjoying playing for this club. This club deserves success, it needs success.
“We’ve started well. Today was disappointing but overall, first month of the season, we’re in a good place. There’s a long, long way to go. As long as we learn from the moments today that cost us, we’ll continue to be in a good place.”
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