Watford 1 Charlton 0

Charlton goalkeeper Nicky Weaver leapt to the defence of team-mate Kelly Youga whose sending off in first half stoppage reduced the Addicks to 10-men for the duration of the second period at Vicarage Road.

Youga, who had been outstanding, was shown a straight red by referee Iain Williamson after appearing to haul down Watford striker Tamas Priskin.

But Weaver, who had a clear view of the incident, said: "From where I was I didn't think Priskin was going to get a clear shot on goal.

~ See more pictures from Vicarage Road >>>

"Mark Hudson was coming round and I don't think it was a clear chance, . You have to think that Kelly was hard done by."

Manager Alan Pardew added: "I don't want to make any judgement until I see the match video but from where I was it didn't look like a clear goalscoring opportunity."

Weaver produced two magnificent reflex saves to deny Jobi McAnuff and substitute Damien Francis 10 minutes from the end on a day of deep disappointment for Charlton.

"After getting off to a flying start against Swansea a week ago, I expected more," Pardew added

Tommy Smith was Watford's match-winner with a 28th minute goal after pouncing on a mistake by Jonathan Fortune.

Charlton: Weaver, Semedo (Dickson 72), Fortune, Hudson, Youga, Sam, Racon (Holland 58), Bailey, Bouazza (Basey 46), Gray, Varney. Subs not used: Elliot, Shelvey. Attendance: 14,413.