Charlton 2 Ipswich 1

After two successive defeats Charlton Athletic eased the pressure on manager Alan Pardew with a 2-1 home victory over inconsistent Ipswich Town.

Charlton had the perfect start when they took the lead after just six minutes with a brilliantly-struck 25-yard free-kick from midfielder Nicky Bailey which nestled in the bottom corner of the Ipswich net.

However, seven minutes later Bailey limped off injured to be replaced by the veteran Matt Holland.

Apart from a David Norris shot which flew across the Charlton goal, Ipswich produced very little in front of goal but equalised in fortunate fashion when Jon Walters' cross was back-heeled by Pablo Counago and Charlton defender Martin Cranie turned the ball into his own net.

The goal inspired Ipswich and Alan Quinn's header was well-saved by Charlton keeper Nicky Weaver and Ivan Campo then hit the bar with a free-kick.

The Addicks increased the tempo in the second half and took the lead on the hour when former Ipswich player Darren Ambrose crossed from the right for Hameur Bouazza to hook the ball goalwards and it went into the net off the chest of Ipswich defender Moritz Volz.

Charlton restricted the visitors to few chances in the second half and their spirited performance earned them three valuable points while Ipswich continue to flatter to deceive on their travels.

Charlton boss Alan Pardew has been trying to get the right blend and his side played in a much more attacking style than in the previous matches and he will be delighted that his team wiped out the memory of their dismal performance in midweek against local rivals Crystal Palace.

However, Ipswich boss Jim Magilton will be concerned at his team's lack of fire-power.

Football.co.uk