Birmingham 0 - 1 Charlton

CHARLTON can look forward to a top-of-the-table clash against Chelsea at the Valley on Saturday bouyed by another fine away victory at Birmingham.

The Addicks passing game that so contemptuously swept aside Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium in their last Premiership outing was gone, but it was replaced by dogged defensive resistance.

Perhaps even more important than the three points is what this performance will have told manager Alan Curbishley, who was taking charge of his 600th league match, about his new-look side. For this victory was streaked in sweat.

Birmingham fought with courage and scarcely a touch of decent fortune, but they seldom extended Charlton keeper Stephan Andersen into a save worthy of the name, a point their boss Steve Bruce was quick to pick up on.

He said: "I was delighted with the way we played in the second half and if we can maintain that level then we'll have no problems. But I've got to be honest and say that I can't ever remember their goalkeeper making a decent save."

Despite the victory, Curbishley was not entirely satisfied, perhaps an indication of Charlton's growing confidence.

He said: "I was upset with one or two of them because I asked them to do things for me and they didn't respond. They will next time."

So it's the immovable object Chelsea up next for the Addicks.

Charlton go forward with confidence to face the champions knowing they must play the team, not the reputation.

The manner of Saturday's win will provide further conviction.

These are the only two sides in the top flight with 100 per cent records in the leage. Something has got to give.

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