Third-placed Charlton Athletic enjoy Valley victory over Durham

Melissa Johnson and Angela Addison struck as Charlton Athletic beat Durham 2-0 in the FA Women’s Championship.

The Addicks held a slender lead at half-time thanks to Johnson, who scored from the penalty spot inside the opening 20 minutes of play.

Addison’s strike midway through the second half sealed three points for the hosts, who are third in the table ahead of the final two matches of the season.

Early phases of play were dominated by Durham, with Beth Hepple seeing her shot saved and Lily Crosthwaite’s effort smacking off the post inside the opening seven minutes.

The hosts settled into the contest and shortly after Addison saw her effort saved by Durham keeper Naoisha McAloon, they were awarded a penalty when Lauren Bruton was brought down in the box.

Johnson made no mistake from the spot, calmly slotting home into the far-right corner to hand her side the lead.

Hepple’s volley forced a strong stop from Addicks keeper Sian Rogers in the 42nd minute.

Johnson nearly added a second four minutes into the second half after a quickfire Charlton break, but the striker mistimed her finish.

They had another chance to double their lead minutes later, Emily Simpkins shooting just wide from 12 yards out.

Eventually they secured their second, Johnson crossing to Addison, who needed just one touch before smashing home in the 69th minute.

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PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD