Charlton head-coach Guy Luzon has stated that his side’s second-half strength in character won them their first victory in five matches. 

 

The hosts were 1-0 down at the break following Steve Morison’s first goal since March 2013, shortly after Stephen Henderson had magnificently tipped Billy Sharp’s penalty on to the post.

 

The Addicks came out second-half as the better side, but it took until the 74th minute for them to equalise through a Tony Watt volley after some great work by substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson. 

 

Just a few minutes later, Igor Vetokele was fouled by Stuart Taylor to give Yoni Buyens the opportunity to convert his eight penalty of the season, which he did with usual ease. 

 

Luzon’s side then managed to hold on to a victory which he felt was down to a change in character in the second-half.

 

“I will be honest, I didn’t like the tempo and the rhythm we showed in the first-half,” said Luzon.

 

“We spoke in the dressing room that we must change the rhythm because if we want to come back and win the game, we will have to play with more passion and aggression.

 

“The players did it well in the second-half and I saw a lot of good character in the team,

 

“We need to continue like that and finish the season with a sweet taste.”

 

Despite a few Leeds chances, they only managed to beat the in-form Henderson once, and Luzon was quick to state just how highly he rates the keeper.

 

He said: “Henderson did a great job today and throughout the season. 

 

“In my view, he is one of the best goalkeepers in the competition and we are very happy that he plays for us.

 

“I’m always positive in that situation (when conceding a penalty), I always trust my players.” 

 

Igor Vetokele struggled at times during the game, but did well to win his side the penalty that lead to Buyens’ goal and Luzon felt that the goal should be credited to the striker. 

 

He said: “The strikers changed the tempo and rhythm in the second-half and were more efficient but there is still room to improve. 

 

“Igor especially, in the second-half played with a lot of passion and determination. 

 

“The second-goal is his goal because he smelt the situation and acted like a striker needed to act in this situation.”

 

Buyens’ penalty was his eighth successful spot-kick of the campaign and Charlton’s head-coach believes there is not a better penalty taker than him in the league.

 

“I think Yoni was the best player on the pitch today," admitted Luzon. 

 

“He was great in the first half, the second half, defence, offense. 

 

“I don’t know if there is a player in this league who scores eight from eight penalties,

 

 “He needs to continue, maybe he will have more.” 

 

Gudmundsson, who replaced Chris Eagles at half-time, was involved in both of Charlton’s goals and Luzon was pleased with the winger’s impact.

 

He said: “Last two weeks we have played five games in a row and we have to rotate to keep the players fresh,

 

“I knew he had the quality to change the game and I’m happy that he did it."