Melissa Johnson salvages a point for Charlton Athletic at Birmingham City
Melissa Johnson’s goal earned Charlton Athletic a 2-2 draw against Birmingham City after they fought back from two goals down at St Andrew’s in the FA Women’s Championship.
After being knocked out of the FA Cup by the Blues two weeks ago, the Addicks deserve great credit for refusing to lie down against opponents who had the chance to go third in the table.
Gemma Lawley had the game’s first big chance for Birmingham, but she blazed over from close range after Charlton goalkeeper Sian Rogers flapped at Christie Murray’s free-kick.
Blues captain Louise Quinn was dispossessed in her own area by Freda Ayisi but was bailed out by Lucy Thomas blocking Johnson’s effort.
The breakthrough came for the hosts in the 35th minute when Murray’s corner ran for Jade Pennock, who shot through a crowded six-yard box to find the net.
Another set-piece led to Birmingham doubling their lead eight minutes into the second half when Quinn headed in Murray’s corner.
Charlton had a route back into the game just four minutes later when Bethan Roe’s deflected cross was volleyed in by Kiera Skeels from close range.
The Addicks drew level on 79 minutes when Lois Roche played the ball into the area for Johnson, whose shot went in off the far post.
Roche almost completed the turnaround for the visitors with two minutes left when her free-kick from the left needed saving by Thomas at her near post.
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PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD