Charlton 1 New Zealand 1

DARREN BENT’S long-awaited return from injury played second fiddle to the performance of Costa Rica trialist Christian Bolanos at The Valley on Saturday.

Such was the midfielder’s impact that Charlton head coach Iain Dowie hinted that he could be a Charlton player by the end of the week.

Dowie said: "He’s given me plenty to think about. We’ll have discussions to see where it goes but I can see a decision being made this week."

Bolanos, who played in the World Cup, has made 18 appearances for Costa Rica and scored one goal.

He trained with Liverpool last season and is making a second attempt to establish himself in the Premiership having decided to leave his club Saprissa CRC.

His piercing pass created Marcus Bent’s 35th-minute goal which the ex-Everton striker finished in style. Slip-shod defending handed Campbell Banks New Zealand’s 58th minute equaliser.

* Keep up to date with all the news from The Valley every week in the Bexley Extra.