Thierry Small effort enough as Charlton maintain play-off push at lowly Crawley

Thierry Small’s first-half goal gave Charlton a narrow 1-0 League One victory at struggling Crawley to consolidate their play-off push with a ninth win in the last 12 games.

Crawley’s fourth defeat in five matches leaves them nine points from safety with 10 games remaining.

The Red Devils improved somewhat after the break but lacked a cutting-edge up front.

Charlton captain Lloyd Jones had a dangerous low cross intercepted early on with Tyreece Campbell in a threatening position before Crawley striker Will Swan fired off target at the other end after a strong run by Panutche Camara.

The recalled Alex Gilbert, arriving late inside the area, had a shot blocked for Charlton, having earlier put a fierce 20-yard chance inches over.

The Addicks made the breakthrough after 37 minutes a Gilbert assist found Small to the right of goal after Crawley had failed to clear and his powerful close-range shot gave goalkeeper Jojo Wollacott no chance.

Wollacott was well positioned to save a goal-bound chance from Karoy Anderson shortly after the interval.

And the Crawley keeper was in action again to save drive from Gilbert from the edge of the area.

Campbell came close to doubling Charlton’s lead when he put an angled shot just wide after showing blistering pace.

Charlton’s victory saw them climb above Stockport into fourth place and they now boast 17 clean sheets in the league.