1:00pm Monday 23rd November 2009
By Steve Sowden
CHARLTON Athletic boss Phil Parkinson has praised his club's travelling supporters for braving the elements at Huish Park on Saturday.
Parkinson said the Charlton fans - most of whom were stood on the open away terrace - were the heroes of the afternoon during horrendous weather conditions which resulted in a 1-1 draw in the Coca-Cola League One with Yeovil Town.
Charlton fought back from a 1-0 deficit at half-time, having already had one player sent-off, and really took the game to the Glovers in the second period - ably assisted by a strong swirling wind - and grabbed an equaliser.
They pushed for a winner, but Yeovil held firm.
"To have come in at 0-0 would have been great for us, particularly in the circumstances, unfortunately we gave ourselves a mountain to climb," said Parkinson. "But we climbed it.
"Even at 1-0 down I told the players if we stepped onto them and were positive then we could go on and win the game.
"We did everything but win the game. It was a fantastic performance, full of character and commitment from the lads. And we are back in a good groove again.”
And Parkinson added: "The highlight of the day was our supporters.
“For up to 1,500 to follow us down and stand in the pouring rain in the open terrace was incredible.
"I said before the game to the lads that we owed the supporters an away performance after the Northwich and Carlisle games. And we certainly gave that.
"Hopefully they travelled home on Saturday tonight proud of the Charlton team, and a little disappointed not to take three points.”
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thisisthewestcountry.co.uk