Patrick Bauer’s 38th-minute goal was enough to earn ten-man Charlton an opening day win against Bristol Rovers.

Addicks striker Lee Novak, who replaced Josh Magennis due to a knee injury, was shown a straight red for a two-footed challenge on Stuart Sinclair inside six minutes.

Despite the striker winning the ball, it was a dangerous tackle and referee Christopher Sarginson gave him his marching orders.

Addicks boss Karl Robinson handed competitive debuts to summer recruits Billy Clarke, Tariqe Fosu, Jay Dasilva and Ben Amos, while Ahmed Kashi made his long-awaited return from an achilles problem.

Charlton could’ve been a goal down early on, as well, after Amos failed to hold a free-kick, but fortunately Chris Lines shot over from close-range.

Rovers mounted another attack led by Lines, who ran at the Charlton defence, only to see his tame shot saved by Amos.

The Addicks’ opening goal came just before the break when Ricky Holmes’ free-kick was powerfully met by Bauer. Rovers goalkeeper Adam Smith got a touch on the ball but couldn't keep it out.

Darrell Clarke’s men started the second-half brightly, with Liam Sercombe and Liam Clarke firing over in quick succession.

Charlton had Amos to thank after the Bolton loanee did well to prevent Sercombe with his feet in the 55th minute.

The Addicks continued to look dangerous on the break, and Holmes had a free-kick saved by Smith just before the hour mark.

Rovers looked threatening as the half wore on, but Bauer and Jason Pearce were terrific for Charlton at the back - blocking nearly every cross and shot.

And it was Charlton who held firm to hold on to the three points.

Charlton (4-2-3-1): Amos; Solly, Pearce, Bauer, Bauer, Dasilva; Kashi, Forster-Caskey; Fosu (Ahearne-Grant, 84), Clarke (Watt, 70), Holmes (Crofts, 90); Novak.

Subs not used: Phillips, Reeves, Konsa, Sarr.