'It took a one-in-a-million strike to defeat us - I could get myself in trouble talking about our disallowed goal'
Manager Nathan Jones felt 5-1 scoreline in Charlton Athletic's favour would have been fair outcome
Nathan Jones admitted he was “seething” after Charlton Athletic’s 1-0 loss to Leicester City today - but that anger was not directed at his players.
Instead the Welshman’s ire was saved for referee Dean Whitestone for disallowing Lloyd Jones’ header that would have levelled up the Championship contest.
Abdul Fatawu broke the deadlock in the 48th minute with a finish that underlined why Sunderland are keen on handing the Ghanaian attacker a Premier League lifeline before the transfer window closes.
It ended Charlton’s run of not conceding in a league fixture which, including the League One play-offs, exceeded nine-and-a-half hours.
Picture: Keith Gillard
Charlton manager Jones felt his side should have finished a decent quota of their 20 attempts with Foxes goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk making a huge save from Conor Coventry in the first half.
“We were dominant,” said the Addicks boss. “It took a one-in-a-million strike to win the game for them - from 30 yards.
“We had so many opportunities to have got something from the game. If we’d scored I think we’d have gone on to win but that is the lesson, they are ex-Premier League and he (Fatawu) will end up back in the Premier League in a week’s time. That was the only difference.
“It’s hard to be disappointed with the level of performance because if that was
5-1 it probably would’ve been a fair result. Three or four goals - easy - in terms of the balance of play, chances and territory. We were totally dominant but they demonstrated that ounce of quality that we didn’t, which is why we are sitting here with no points.
“All of the quality they have in their side and they had to score from 30 yards. We have created enough chances to win three games, we really have.
“The disallowed goal, I could get myself in trouble, it is an absolute travesty. I don’t get it - what they see (to rule it out).
“It is an absolute fairytale (as to why it wasn’t given) - Hans Christian Andersen. I don’t know where to look or what to think. We caused them so many problems from set-plays and that was another one. They were released from jail by an individual that I just can’t comment on.
“If someone did their job today then we’re having a different conversation here.
“Then there was an honesty to our players that I didn’t see for their first goal as well. Today there was minimal contact - lots of falling down. There was a facilitation by someone to allow them to do that. That is what I was really angry about. They felt that our physicality, aggression and how we press was something they didn’t want to do - and that was helped out.
“I’ve knocked (on the referee’s door) twice. I’m going to see him because I’m disappointed with certain elements. From the Football League (advice), I have to say I am disappointed and I disagree with certain elements of his decision-making.
“If I say what I want to say, it is totally different. But, for the record, the referee has a difficult job to do and there are decisions he made that I disagree with and felt he could have made a different decision.
“We were constant in our play, press and putting their box under pressure - whether from free play or set-plays. They have had to block shots and defend really well, credit to them.
“If that is our levels then I’m excited. I have masses of pride for the performance but I am seething at certain elements that happened and that is what I’ve got to be very controlled at, because I could get myself in trouble.”
Jones made one change with Miles Leaburn starting up front in place of summer signing Charlie Kelman, last season’s League One Golden Boot winner dropping to the bench.
Conor Coventry’s shot is tipped over the bar by Leicester City goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk
Picture: Keith Gillard
“Tactical,” said the Charlton chief. “Miles has been outstanding in training and he probably had his best game for me, considering the level. He was truly, truly outstanding in his play today.
“That was the decision.We have real competition and people have to keep at that level. There is no automatic choices. Everyone has to compete.
“I’m very proud of the group and how they are doing. I’m just disappointed we didn’t get what we categorically deserved, but that is the Championship.”
Charlton are back in action onTuesday night in the EFL Cup at Cambridge United.
“To maintain our levels you have to use your squad,” said Jones. “We have a very good squad. Our priority is the league but we will go and try and win a game, like we always do. It will be a very difficult one.”
Best performance from us that I have seen in many, many years. Don’t want to call any individuals out as everyone is giving 100% for cause, but some improvements in the final ball/ final pass have to be made. We are getting into amazing positions and then letting ourselves down. Doc and Coventry were class today in the middle, our D was epic and up front- Leaburn really looked good. Maybe get Leaburn and Kelman up front together for 90 mins? Think they could form a devastating partnership.