Arthur Okonkwo has praised his Charlton Athletic teammates for their resilient performance in Wednesday night’s goalless draw against Queens Park Rangers. Nathan Jones’ side responded positively to last weekend’s heavy 4-0 defeat to Stoke City with a determined defensive display at home. Okonkwo played a key role in securing the point, making two impressive saves to preserve his clean sheet. The Nigeria international reflected on Charlton’s performance in a tightly contested encounter.
“We knew it was going to be difficult, but I thought the boys dug in well, especially after last week, and we defended really well,” Okonkwo told the club’s media.
“I think we were a bit unfortunate with decisions against us in the first half, but in the end, a clean sheet against a really good side is always good, and we look to Saturday now.” Okonkwo also revealed that manager Nathan Jones demanded a stronger defensive performance from his players following their disappointing showing against Stoke. “That was the manager’s message before the game.
He wanted to see a reaction from us defensively,” he added. “I think the game against Stoke, we had some decisions against us as well, which set us back, but there’s no excuse for how we defended at times.” “Today was a good reaction. We stayed strong, defended our box really well, and we were able to get a clean sheet.
Would have liked to have won, but that’s football.” Charlton will now turn their attention to their next Championship fixture against Portsmouth, where they will look to build on Wednesday’s defensive display.