Charlton Athletic U18s defender Freddy Barton spoke to Valley Gold for Academy Notes after the recent 3-3 draw with Ipswich Town.
“I am a second-year Scholar at Charlton Athletic FC currently in my 11th year at the club, coming through the academy from U9’s. I would regard myself as a hardworking, enthusiastic individual who is dedicated to achieving my dream of becoming an established professional.”
“As results show we have got off to a great start this year, coming into the game 9 games without a defeat.”
“Ipswich are always a tough opponent, being a side filled with energy as well as posing a threat on the counter-attack.”
“Regarding my own performance, starting at right-back in the game, I felt I provided more of an attacking threat in the second half and enabled us to threaten both around and through the opposition. I had a couple of opportunities within the final third, the best setting up Richard Kesey with a good chance, but I felt I could have provided more quality on a couple of occasions. Defensively I felt I was solid and displayed good energy to close players down and disturb their play, especially in the second half where we dominated individually and as a unit.”
“We got off to a steady start, having the majority of possession within the first 10 minutes. Ipswich were first to break the deadlock, converting from close range after a parried shot against the run of play. This was the catalyst for a very poor seven minutes where we conceded another 2 goals in quick succession following a set-piece and a counter-attack. However, Charlie Barker managed to give us a glimmer of hope just before half-time when he converted from a poorly-cleared cross.”
“In the second half, we were on top throughout, having the majority of possession enabling us to gain territory and get the second goal as well as a penalty in quick succession. Unfortunately, the penalty was saved, but our momentum continued and we managed to find an equaliser through Aaron Henry who put away a penalty in the closing minutes after a foul on Richard Afrane-Kesey.
“Another great show of character from the boys, to come back from 3-0 down to get a point. Hopefully, we can continue the run and try to improve our performances along the way.”
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