The Millers were made to work as hard as they have had to this pre-season by a young strong and energetic Charlton team, managed by former Charlton centre back Jason Pearce, who earned a deserved win at the Artic Stadium last night. The Young Addicks particularly in the first half looked impressive as they were able to ping the ball around and utilise their pace on the flanks.

Adam Coombes tested the Charlton keeper in the opening minute with a swerving shot that was well saved but it was the visitors that took the lead in the 6th minute. A well worked corner routine was returned to the far post for an open volley from the corner of the six yard box which was fired into the net.

Denzel Gayle equalised for the Millers on 21 minutes, cutting in from the right flank he finished well slotting the ball past the keeper into the far corner. However parity was short lived as six minutes later Charlton re-took the lead, a break down the left and a low ball back towards the centre of the box was slotted home by the arriving midfielder.

Second half and the Millers looked to restore parity once again, Michael Ademiluyi came close as his effort was hacked off the line by the Addicks keeper. In the 73rd minute the Millers lost possession in the middle of the park and a simple ball set the visitors through on goal and a calm finish from close range increased their lead to make it 3-1.

Malachy Turner one of the Millers Isthmian side U18 players, on as a half time substitution, acquitted himself well at right full back and going up for a corner went close with a header. After a raft of substitutions in an entertaining game, The Millers did pull a goal back towards the end, Freddie Parker doing well to head home Lyle Della-Verde's corner kick. Full Time 2-3.

The Millers end their pre-season on Saturday when Isthmian Premier side Dulwich Hamlet are the visitors to the Artic Stadium. Kick off is 3pm, hope to see you there.

Post match interview with Millers manager Steve McKimm
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/videos/post-match-interview--steve-mckimm-speaking-after-the-32-loss-to-a-charlton-athletic-u18-academy-side-191695.html

Match Photos courtesy of Romana and Inspire Socials
https://www.crayvalleypmfc.com/photos/preseason-friendly--millers-v-charlton-athletic-u18--1823-photos-romana-rule-1068260.html