NATHAN Jones said Charlton Athletic were “thoroughly professional” as they thumped League Two Walsall 4-0 at the Bescot Stadium to reach the third round of the FA Cup.
Gassan Ahadme and Matty Godden had the Addicks two goals ahead inside 28 minutes.
Ahadme got his second with five minutes left before Tyreece Campbell added the fourth two minutes into stoppage-time.
Jones said: “It was a very tough tie, the bookies had them as favourites coming into the game. They’re doing really well in their league, their manager is doing a fantastic job here. They are a very difficult side to play against. They’ve beaten Huddersfield Town, they’ve beaten Birmingham, they’ve beaten Bolton, they’ve beaten Exeter.
“So we knew it was a tough game, but I thought it was thoroughly professional performance. We started the game really well scored from a wonderful goal, then pressed them into a mistake and then we had to probably weather the storm a little bit for 15 minutes, which is always going to happen.”
“We did increase the lead then increased further, I am really delighted because it was a very tough game, I thought we were really, really professional today.”
Jones felt it was important for Ahadme to get back on the scoresheet with his third and fourth goals of the season.
“He got a bit of stick, missed a big chance last week that could have got us a point away at Huddersfield with ten men,” Jones said. “But he’s a great kid, works hard. As dedicated an individual as you’ve ever seen. A bit eccentric, but we like that.
“We brought him here so that when we do put balls in and we do play how we can play, he’s one of the best technicians in terms of heading that I’ve ever worked with. I’m delighted for him.”
Godden has eight goals in all competitions this season.
Jones added: “Delighted for Godden to get another goal because there were a few questions about letting Alfie [May] go and bringing in Godde, but we’re very happy with what we’ve got.
“TC needed a goal and he’s got a goal.”
Jones also had praise for midfielders Conor Coventry and Terry Taylor.
“Conor has been excellent since I’ve come in,” Jones said. “Terry was injured when I came in. I’m proud of Terry because he’s had to work, to back himself and come through some tough times. I’m really proud of him.
“He shows his value at set-plays, in how he gets about the pitch, the calmness he gives us – I’m really happy for him.”
Jones added: “I don’t care who plays as long as we win a game. They all compete, they’re all great lads. They’re brilliant to work with and be around. I’m delighted for Terry. Conor, I know all about, he’s played for me, he’s done it for me last year and he’s doing it again.
“Of course, we want to play as many good players as we can, as many people who are in form and as many people who will execute the game plan.”
Despite this being Charlton’s third away game in a week, 862 Addicks supporters made the trip.
“I’m delighted for the fans who’ve traveled to a third away game in a week,” Jones said. “It is not easy and the distances they’ve had to travel and for the players, they have had to be away from their family.
“The club have been excellent in backing us with certain things and with [overnight] stays. I’m really delighted because it is a good day for the football club.”
