Before kick-off, both teams observed a minute's silence for Keith Alexander, the Macclesfield Town manager and former County player who sadly passed away this week.

Just after a minute, Greg Tansey tried a speculative effort, but his shot went wide right.

County's poor luck in this season continued with a freakish goal for Charlton on 7 minutes. Danny Swailes tried to clear the ball, but his clearance cannoned off the side Paul Huntington's head and flew past Owain Fon Williams.

The Addicks had a second on ten minutes later when Frazer Richardson found loanee Akpo Sodje unmarked, who placed a powerful, perfectly placed header past Fon Williams.

The Hatters' first chance came on 15 minutes. Greg Tansey's corner found Swailes, but his was blocked by Llera.

County had the ball in the net on the half hour after Jabo Ibehre ran through on goal and shot, but he'd already been judged offside.

The Hatters rode their luck just before half time, when Mat Sadler looked to use his arm to guide the ball back to Owain Fon Williams, but nothing was given.

County had a corner at the beginning of the second half, but Greg Tansey's swinging cross was cleared by Chris Solly.

County had a good period of pressure early in the second half, with a couple of offsides and play around Charlton's area. One period of play saw Turnbull fire the ball across goal, but it was too fast for Ibehre to get a touch at the far post.

Jabo Ibehre was upended by a rough challenge from Miguel Angel Llera, which saw the former MK Dons man booked.

County went close when Llera let the ball bounce only for Ibehre to get in behind, but he was judged to have fouled the Nicky Bailey. Llera and 'keeper Elliott nearly squared up as they argued.

Charlton looked to have their third near the end when he turned and shot in the area, but Fon Williams managed to block.

3-0 would've been harsh on the Hatters, who performed well despite the suspensions and injuries. The County faithful who travelled to the capital applauded the side off the pitch at the final whistle.