Karl Robinson insists his Charlton players were brave in their goalless draw with Fleetwood.

The Valley manager’s change in formation and personnel in the second-half failed to have the desired effect as the Addicks struggled to break down a resilient Fleetwood side.

Charlton only registered two shots on target against the Cod Army, who have won just one league game in 2018.

Robinson said: “My players were brave because when they were getting a bit of stick after 30 minutes, they kept doing the right things and we created one or two opportunities to score. 

“If people understand the game when they [Fleetwood] have got 11 players behind the ball, it’s difficult to break down.

“When you've got centre-backs as full-backs, it’s even harder because the narrower you drag their midfield positions, it’s hard for an Naby Sarr or an Ezri Konsa to play as an offensive full-back at home against a team that sit deep.

“These are just basics of the game that people should understand. For me, I thought my players were brave, they got on the ball and played out properly, they asked questions of the opposition. We got into their final third more times than they ever did.

“Other than Jason Pearce’s error, I don't remember them doing much. We were comfortable and our decision-making shows - 17 shots and two on target.”

Yesterday’s bore draw saw Charlton miss another opportunity to close the five-point gap on sixth-placed Plymouth.

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