Ten years ago: a feast of football

My notes recall a 'feast of football' at The Valley on 20 January 1996 when Charlton beat the Baggies 4-1. There were two first half goals from Robinson and one from Jamie Stuart.

My notes recall, 'Charlton completely dominated the first half and it could have been 4-0 if Robinson hadn't missed a penalty. Apart from Naylor in goal, West Brom were pretty hopeless. We took our foot off the accelerator a bit in the second half and West Brom got one back with a penalty, but we made it 4-1, also with a penalty [taken by Mortimer].' Three penalties in one match and they are almost unknown at The Valley today!

The Addicks were 2nd in the table even before the win, although seven points behind leaders Derby County. A cautious Curbs warned in the programme, 'we must keep our feet firmly on the ground, because although we haven't shouted about ourselves too much we know there is a long way ahead. We must not be deterred from what we need to do by outside influences and pressures.' Quite what this cryptic comment meant, I don't know, but I would be interested in any suggestions.