WATCH: SuperCupNI involvement brings out so much learning for Charlton Athletic players
Charlton Athletic coach Mitch Garrett says the competitive nature of the SuperCupNI tournament is the perfect platform for his young side to keep developing their game.
He made the comments after their side played out an entertaining 1-1 draw against fellow London side West Ham United at the Coleraine Showgrounds.
Athletic took the lead inside the opening minute when Theo Birdsall made no mistake with an emphatic finish inside the box.
However, their early joy was cut short when defender Keon Humes-Daniel received a red card for a last man tackle inside the penalty area, which resulted in the Hammers being awarded a spot kick.
But West Ham’s Roni Abazi missed the chance to equalise from 12 yards as his penalty came back off the crossbar.
Despite continuing to hold the narrow advantage, Charlton were breached a minute before the end when a corner kick delivery was on the money for Henri Gjoka to head home from close range as the contest finished 1-1.
Speaking to the News Letter after the game, Garrett gave his verdict on the match and praised his young side for keeping West Ham at bay for so long.
He also delved into Charlton’s long affiliation with SuperCupNI and his hopes and aims for the rest of their time in the tournament.