Charlton 1 Stoke 0

LLOYD SAM'S first home Championship goal of the season ended Stoke's 12-match unbeaten record but at the final whistle the Charlton players rushed over to acclaim goalkeeper Nicky Weaver.

Deep into second half stoppage time, Weaver produced a magnificent save to deny Stoke substitute Jon Parkin whose late goal won the early season clash between the two at the Britannia Stadium.

Manager Alan Pardew said: "It was a fantastic save and it could prove crucial in the final reckoning.

"Tonight was a huge win for us because Stoke are such a strong side. There are Premier League clubs who are not as strong as them defensively."

Sam, who produced his best form of the season, headed the match-winner in the 83rd minute after substitute Luke Varney cut the ball back after missing the chance at the first time of asking.

Striker Andy Gray, the club's £2 million signing from Burnley, enjoyed an exceptional home debut.

The win leaves Charlton level on points with Stoke with four points separating the top five.

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Charlton: Weaver; Moutaoukil, Bougherra, McCarthy, Youga; Sam (Semedo 86 mins), Holland, Zheng, Ambrose (Thomas 71 mins); Gray, Iwelumo (Varney 66 mins).

Subs not used: Randolph, Fortune.

Attendance: 22,108.
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