Sonny Carey's crisp second-half volley proved the difference as Charlton Athletic edged a tense 1-0 win over nine-man Sheffield United at The Valley. The midfielder struck seconds after the restart, finally making Charlton's numerical advantage count after a chaotic first half that saw Djibril Soumare and Japhet Tanganga both sent off for the visitors.
Even with two extra players for more than 45 minutes, Nathan Jones' side never fully settled into control and had to withstand a spirited late push from Chris Wilder's depleted Blades. But Charlton held on, backed by crucial goalkeeping from Thomas Kaminski and some desperate defending, to claim an important three points in south-east London.
Blades seize early initiative at The Valley
Sheffield United began with intent and aggression, forcing the pace from kick-off and immediately putting Charlton under pressure. It took the visitors only around 20 seconds to win the first of seven corners in an opening 45 minutes they largely bossed, with their set-piece threat and movement unsettling the home back line.