Nathan Jones reflected on an emotional night at The Valley, as the Addicks fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat to Middlesbrough.
The visitors scored twice in the first half but after pulling a goal back with nine minutes to go, the Addicks' created chances for a late equaliser.
“They [Middlesbrough] score first, and we should have had a penalty which is frustrating,” Jones said. “The goal just before half-time really kills us. At 2-0 we are always chasing the game, against a side that have some very talented individuals.
“We asked [the game changers] to be front footed and really have an impetus on the game which they did. In the first half, we kept giving the ball away, and you can’t give the ball away to good players because they will hurt you, and they did.
“I am really disappointed with the second goal as that gave us a mountain to climb.”
“We were really mobile in the second half with making opportunities, we were really close to getting that second goal.”
The Addicks have faced a number of the division's leading sides in the last month, including the current top two and an in-form Southampton.
“Over the last few games we have had a brutal run, playing four of the best teams in the league with arguably five of our starters out," Jones explained.
“We can compete at this level. The tough run has coincided with us being nowhere near full strength and that is showing at the moment.”
The Addicks return to action on Saturday as they travel to Birmingham City.
Jones added: "We have to be positive, upbeat to go there and get a result. We had two real tight games against them [Birmingham] last year.”
Supporters all around the stadium impeccably observed the club’s tribute to iconic fan Norman Barker, who passed away on Saturday.
“The club should be commended for how we look after one of our own," Jones said. "That memorial and show of emotion cannot be underestimated. It was a privilege for me [to meet Norman] and he will be sorely missed.”
Jones' side are back at The Valley on Saturday, December 20th for the visit of Oxford United. Click here to get your tickets.
