Charlton’s U18s began their season in winning fashion, claiming all three points from a 2-1 victory at Leeds United on Saturday.
Andre Thompson-Fearon’s goal 12 minutes from time was the difference in Yorkshire after Richard Afrane-Kesey’s first-half strike had been quickly cancelled out by a Leeds’ leveller.
The Addicks took the lead on the half-hour mark, taking advantage of a sloppy pass out from the hosts’ goalkeeper. Terrell Agyemang read the situation well, pouncing on the stopper’s pass to get to it before a white shirt in midfield and played an immediate first-time pass to Afrane-Kesey (pictured) on the edge of the box. The forward took two touches to prepare himself before unleashing an unstoppable effort into the bottom left-hand corner, leaving United’s keeper rooted to the spot.
The advantage would only last three minutes, however, as the home side found an equaliser almost immediately.
A route-one ball forward from Leeds’ right-back saw Charlton’s defence get caught out by the bounce, leaving the hosts’ number 10 to get in around the back and place a simple finish past Nathan Harvey from eight yards.
It would be the Addicks who would make the journey home with all the points on opening day, however, thanks to substitute Thompson-Fearon.
Aaron Henry claimed the assist with a simply brilliant cross from the right touchline, swinging the ball in towards the far post in pinpoint fashion, laying it on the head of Thompson-Fearon who powerfully nodded it into the back of the net.
Charlton U18s: Harvey, Barton, Aidoo, Buhari, French, Henry, Albon, Agyemang, Campbell, Afrane-Kesey, Reilly.
Subs: Barker, Chin, Thompson-Fearon.
Subs (not used): Watkins, Garande.
Goals: Afrane-Kesey 30, Thompson-Fearon 78