Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones expressed "immense pride" after his team secured a coveted League One play-off place with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Northampton Town at The Valley on April 18, 2025. This marks a significant achievement for the Addicks, as it is the first time they have finished in the top six since the 2018-19 season, which ultimately led to their promotion to the Championship under former manager Lee Bowyer.
Charlton entered the match knowing that a win against Northampton would guarantee their play-off spot. The game got off to a blistering start for the Addicks, with Luke Berry volleying the home side ahead in the ninth minute. However, the lead was short-lived as Northampton's Dara Costelloe converted a penalty just six minutes later, following a handball by Charlton's Tom McIntyre.
In the second half, Charlton regained their footing when Matty Godden netted his 18th goal of the campaign, capitalizing on a flick from Chuks Aneke. This decisive goal came after Godden had earlier seen a header crash off the crossbar from a cross by Thierry Small. With this victory, Charlton climbed to fourth place in the League One standings, matching Birmingham City with a remarkable 23-point haul over their last ten matches.
"It gives you immense pride to get to the point we have now because you have to have strength and belief," said Jones, who took over the managerial role in January 2024 when the team was in danger of relegation. "Our players have been magnificent all throughout this season. We haven’t achieved anything yet, but I remember Crawley here, Bristol Rovers away – some of the negative comments surrounding Godden, Berry and all these things. I’m proud of myself and those close to me. Sometimes people are nailing you and being critical – with no context – it gives you immense pride to get to where we are now."
Jones also highlighted the importance of the fans and the collective effort that has gone into the season. "The work that has gone in during that year has been considerable. We’ve had to take some things on the chin, make brave decisions, and have broad shoulders. I’m proud of everyone involved in that," he added.
Charlton has amassed 48 points from 22 home matches this season, with only Wrexham (50) and Birmingham (58) collecting more points. Jones remarked on the team's resilience, stating, "We’d have lost that game last season or drawn it. You see the goalkeeper (Will Mannion) right at the end – proactive coming for stuff. Outstanding. A lot of people were putting bodies on the line. We couldn’t have had any more positive players on the pitch (with the second-half changes)." He also noted the tactical changes that were made during the game, including a substitution after just 50 minutes.
Northampton's manager, Kevin Nolan, voiced his frustrations regarding the handball decision that led to the penalty. "It was a ridiculous decision – that can’t happen. That is the only disappointment that at times we were sloppy and we can’t give teams an opportunity. He didn’t get pushed in the back. It was a moment of madness. Tom is an experienced guy, he knows what he has done and he doesn’t need me to tell him," Jones commented on McIntyre's situation.
With this win, Charlton not only secured their play-off position but also kept their hopes alive for automatic promotion. The Addicks can still finish in the top two, as they look to capitalize on their remaining fixtures against teams above them in the table. Their next challenges include away matches against Wycombe and Wrexham, both of whom are currently positioned above them.
As the play-off picture begins to take shape, the EFL has scheduled the first leg of the League One play-off semi-final for Saturday, May 10, 2025, with kick-off times set for 12:30 PM and 7:45 PM. The second legs will follow on Wednesday, May 14, and Thursday, May 15, both at 8 PM. The League One play-off final is set to be held at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, May 25, 2025.
For Charlton supporters, the anticipation of a potential play-off final adds an element of excitement. Ticketing details for the final will be announced by the club if they progress past the semi-finals. While ticket prices for last season's final varied, they provide a glimpse into what fans might expect. Categories ranged from £31 for adults to £86 for premium seating, with similar pricing expected this season.
Charlton's journey this season has been marked by ups and downs, but their recent form has reignited hopes among fans and players alike. The financial implications of promotion to the Championship are significant, with clubs receiving around £1.4 million at the start of the season, which can increase substantially for those who secure a place in the higher league.
As the season draws to a close, all eyes will be on Charlton Athletic as they aim to secure their place in the Championship and potentially make a run at the title. With the momentum they have built and the pride instilled by their manager, the Addicks are ready to make a statement in the coming weeks.
