Chris Powell labelled Charlton Athletic’s defeat to
Rochdale on Tuesday night as 'cruel’ after his side extended their
winless run to 11 games.

An impressive volley from Jason Kennedy and a second half strike
from Craig Dawson proved too much for the Addicks at Spotland and
the defeat left their promotion hopes fading fast.

Charlton came close to pulling a goal back late on through
Therry Racon, but his shot was cleared off the line.

A dejected Powell (pictured) said: “We pressed Rochdale back but
obviously I felt the first goal was crucial and it went to Rochdale
in the first period.

"It was cruel really because I think we should at least be
coming away from here with a point at the minimum and maybe all
three.

“I don’t know where to start because we fashioned a lot of
chances especially in the second half. The second goal which killed
us came from a corner which wasn’t a corner. These things go
against you when you are up against it.”

The defeat has heaped pressure on the Addicks, who are 13 points
adrift of the play-offs.

Charlton last tasted victory at The Valley, when they recorded a 3-2 win against Peterborough on February 12.