Charlton Athletic U18s left-sided player Kai Garande spoke to Valley Gold for Academy Notes after the recent 1-1 draw at Watford.
Kai who grew up locally in New Eltham and has been at the Charlton Athletic FC Academy for 5 seasons told Valley Gold:
“Coming into the game against Watford we were in 3rd place, with Watford and Millwall ahead of us. A win would see us level points with Watford in 2nd place and close the gap to 5 points behind leaders Millwall.”
“In the early stages, we found it difficult to stop Watford playing out from the back. On numerous occasions the Fullback or Centre Half was released and able to play forward.”
“However; in the 14th minute, Kasim Aidoo and Tyreece Campbell were able to win the ball back high in the opposition’s area which allowed Tyreece Campbell to deliver his cross first time into the box. The ball was cleared out to him again and a coming together of the Watford defender and Tyreece resulted in a penalty.”
“Luca Albon was assured from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way allowing us to gain an early lead.”
“As the 2nd half commenced we attempted to assert more dominance on the game as we understood that our lead was a fragile one. However; early in the second half Watford pegged us back. They were able to play inside our Diamond and work the ball into the fullback. From the edge of the box, he drove the ball into the net with a tidy finish.”
“In the dying minutes of the game, Jeremy Santos was able to carry the ball upfield with several forward options as the Watford defenders dived at his feet in an attempt to tactically disrupt our counter-attack, but he was able to find a pass into Euan Williams, however, his pass is played short into Terrell Agyemang allowing the defence to clear their lines and the whistle is blown to end the contest.”
“This result now means we are in fourth position with Bristol City, Watford and Millwall ahead of us.”
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