Michael Appleton expressed his disappointment over his Charlton team’s performance as they suffered a 3-1 defeat

Michael Appleton expressed his disappointment over his Charlton team’s performance as they suffered a 3-1 defeat against Lincoln City. This loss marked the end of Charlton manager’s previously undefeated run, and the team’s struggle to secure an away win continued.

The Addicks had taken an early lead through Alfie May in the 10th minute, but the game’s dynamics shifted as Hakeeb Adelakun equalized just after the half-hour mark. The Imps dominated, and they went ahead 15 minutes into the second half when an unmarked Adelakun capitalized on a precise delivery from Lasse Sorensen. Lincoln sealed the deal 13 minutes from the end when Sean Roughan exploited some lax defending to score beyond Ashley Maynard-Brewer.

Charlton’s away form has been lacking this season, and their seven-game unbeaten streak came to an end in Lincolnshire.

Appleton voiced his frustration, emphasizing the absence of desire and determination from his players to compete with the opposition. He pointed out that Lincoln won many battles and duels, allowing them to control the game in Charlton’s half of the pitch. Appleton believed that even when the second goal was conceded, it was concerning that his team couldn’t mount a comeback. However, he acknowledged the team’s previous six weeks of strong dedication and hoped for a positive response in their next match.

Appleton highlighted the need for introspection regarding the team’s failure to respond as they had in previous games. He noted that they stopped passing the ball behind or down the sides of their opponents, opting to pass in front of them, which he had criticized earlier in the season. This made it easier for the opposition. Appleton expressed his confidence that some players in the dressing room would be disappointed with the manner in which they conceded goals, describing them as soft goals. He expected more resilience from his team in such situations.