Cambridge United and Charlton Athletic head into their Sky Bet League One clash at the Valley on the back of contrasting midweek results...
The encounter in London hands the U’s a chance to bounce back after falling to a 4-1 defeat at Portsmouth despite an outstanding first-half. Standing in their way of a first victory on the road are the Addicks, who plummeted five past Plymouth Argyle on home soil and understandably maintain the momentum.
- How to Watch
A sea of over 750 U’s fans have already snatched up their tickets ahead of the 3pm matchup in SE7. Planning on joining them? Advance tickets are available until 9pm on Thursday 18th August via cufctickets.com, over the phone by calling 01223 566500 (option 1) or by visiting the Abbey Stadium Club Shop. One Away Credit will be issued for this fixture.
Tickets will also be available on the day of the game at an increase of £2 per ticket.
Domestic fans who are unable to make the game will be able to listen to live match commentary via iFollow, as well as being able to follow live match updates on the day through United’s social media channels.
Overseas fans can stream the game live with an iFollow Match Pass. Passes cost £10 and are available to purchase by clicking here.
- Opposition Focus
Under the tutelage of Ben Garner, the Addicks are blessed with consistent, sheer attacking impetus. Positive and confident on the ball with the desire to be on the front foot and ultimately improve their scoring record is the main aim – bettering last season’s 13th position is a necessity. As they’ve shown already, Charlton will prove a fun watch.
It’s been a comprehensive summer of activity for the London outfit – seven new faces have entered the building, whilst 10 players were released for pastures new. Notable names who did depart were full-backs Chris Gunter and Ben Purrington, with Josh Davison joining AFC Wimbledon and Conor Washington making the step up to the Championship with Rotherham United. Jack Payne, Joe Wollacott and Mandela Egbo all relocated with Garner from Swindon Town, whereas exciting prospects Steven Sessegnon and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi join on loan from Fulham and Crystal Palace respectively.
A pleasing start saw the Addicks share a point at Accrington Stanley before edging out Derby County the following week. They backed this up by dumping QPR out of the Carabao Cup to set up a Second Round tie with Walsall. A late defeat in an evenly-matched battle with Sheffield Wednesday hurt, but they responded in style on Tuesday with the aforementioned thrashing.
- Form Guide
Charlton Athletic: DWWLW
Cambridge United: WWLWL
- United’s Approach
Just as they have done each time after tasting defeat, the U’s have licked their wounds and gathered that self-belief they can gain an instant response. Ticking along nicely, they’re adamant to celebrate a point or three on opposition ground.
The momentum in the camp from the comeback win over Exeter City was evident during the opening 45 at Fratton Park. Joe Ironside’s opener was just reward for an imposing and energetic start. Once Pompey found the leveller, the energy zapped towards the hosts as they ran away with the game which, in truth, was a harsh reflection.
Discussing the defeat, Mark Bonner claimed: “We controlled the first half brilliantly. Not always with the ball, but we’ve had the best chances. We forced the game too much when they were on top. For a large part of that game, that should never end 4-1.”
In regards to team selection, the Head Coach said: “Today is a bit of a ‘see how everybody is’ day. I’m sure there’s a few knocks from the game, but I saw nothing dramatic at full-time to worry about.”
On George Williams’ prospects of appearing, Mark stated: “He’s with the physio today so he’s got a chance, but it’s certainly not a definite.”
- Head-to-Head
Charlton Athletic: 7
Cambridge United: 8
Draws: 6
- Down Memory Lane
The sides matched up for the first time since 1992 last season, with the Addicks stretching their unbeaten run to four games with consecutive 2-0 wins.
Meeting as recently as April, Charlton took the points against a heavily-rotated United. In their last trip to the Valley two weeks before Christmas, Bonner’s men put in an excellent performance despite the defeat. In truth, United would go on to win games despite playing worse throughout the season.
- Officials
Referee: Carl Brook
Assistant Referee: Marc Wilson
Assistant Referee: Declan O’Shea
Fourth Official: Daniel Bonneywell