A spirited second-half fightback from Charlton's U21s was not quite enough as they lost 4-2 to Colchester United on Friday evening.
It was a difficult first period for the young Addicks, who went behind in the seventh minute when a low strike from Hakeem Sandah came back off the post and was tapped home by a Trialist.
The U’s did not slow down after the early goal, maintaining the pressure before doubling their lead in the 32nd minute when Matt Yates’ cross from the left was diverted into his own net by Seydil Toure.
Four minutes before half time, Colchester made it three - Archie Oliver converting a first-time effort from 12 yards following a cross from Sandah.
It was a much-improved display from the Addicks in the second period and they hit back in the 67th minute, when Kai Enslin hit a low drive which goalkeeper Ted Collins got a hand to, but could not keep out.
Charlton made the hosts sweat in the 79th minute with an excellent individual goal from Patrick Casey - his 39th of an impressive season.
But the U’s put the game beyond all doubt two minutes from time when the Trialist claimed his second, turning in the box and striking past Prince Adegoke.
Chris Lock’s side are next in action on Tuesday when they take on Bristol City at Ashton Gate (KO 1pm).
Charlton: Adegoke; Bower, Toure, Bakrin, Enslin; Kedwell (c) (Yamoah 85), Hand, Santos; T.Ladapo (Berry 85), Casey, Huke
Sub (not used): Molyneux
Goals: Enslin 67, Casey 79
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