Charlton Athletic’s hopes of springing an FA Cup Third Round upset against London rivals Fulham were ended by a Clint Dempsey hat-trick at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

But the final scoreline was a bit harsh on the League 1 underdogs with Fulham’s last two goals coming in the final nine minutes.

Dempsey gave the home side an eighth minute lead courtesy of a clever flicked finish, but Charlton - cheered on by a 7,000-strong away contingent - twice went close to equalising before half-time through Yann Kermorgant and Bradley Wright-Phillips.

Fulham keeper David Stockdale then denied Wright-Phillips and Danny Green (pictured), before Dempsey’s low drilled shot gave the Premier League side breathing space just after the hour.

Dempsey completed his hat-trick from the spot, firing home his 12th goal of the campaign after Charlton keeper John Sullivan had brought down Bryan Ruiz.

Then with just three minutes remaining Damien Duff added a fourth with a right-footed shot that was deflected past Sullivan.

Do you think Charlton gave a good account of themselves against Premier League opposition? Have your say below.