My prediction for this match was a 3-0 defeat, so I wasn't far off. But what prompted me to be so negative before even a ball was kicked?

A dose of realism I guess.

Following research for my commentary for the visually-impaired, it was clear to me Norwich City were a force to be reckoned with. They were, after all, many pundits favourites to be contesting for promotion following their resurgence under Phillippe Clement in the latter part of 2025-26.

However, going into this game, they were floundering in 21st place after five successive league defeats and no clean sheets since they visited The Valley on the first day of spring back in March.

A closer look at their results and some of their performances would suggest it would be only a matter of time when they would surmount another climb up the table.

They've played some good teams in this division like Middlesbrough, Swansea City and Southampton, pushing them all the way.

As for Charlton Athletic, Nathan Jones rang the changes as promised after the dreadful performance and result at Watford previously.

Three of the replacements looked impressive in that bright 20 minute opening spell for Charlton.

Joe Rankin-Costello and Sonny Carey livened up our moribund midfield. Then Charlie Kelman delivered with a fine well-taken goal.

Paris Maghoma is a player well known in coaching circles for carrying the ball and shooting from dangerous positions. He did just that as he equalised for the Canaries with aplomb.

Charlton had now retreated into their lower-table shell and showed no sign of escaping it in the second half as they allowed centre-back Ruairi McConville to put a ball in from the left and an unmarked Mathias Kvistgaarden rubber-stamped his penchant for movement, intelligent positioning and sharp finishing.

The final wound was executed as substitute Anthony Musaba drilled his way into Charlton's penalty box, ending in an own goal for the third killer strike.

Talking of killers, the legendary Derek 'Killer' Hales was introduced to the crowd before the match with a montage of some of his goals shown on the big screen. We are crying out for someone like that in this modern era.

Next up is a visit to top of the table Middlesbrough. Like storms Austen and Boelo, when it rains - it pours.