Chris Powell backs Ben Hamer after keeper hits a rare low note

 
7 March 2012

Chris Powell defended Ben Hamer after a howler from the goalkeeper contributed to Charlton losing their 11-month unbeaten home League record.

The 24-year-old’s form has been exemplary with his side going into last night’s match boasting the best defensive record in the country, conceding an average of only 0.68 goals per game.

But after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Bournemouth, Hamer was culpable for Colchester’s second when he dallied on the ball to allow Steven Gillespie to close him down and deflect the goalkeeper’s clearance into the net.

That defensive record has now been lost to Manchester City (averaging 0.70 goals per game) but with Charlton remaining 13 points clear at the top of League One, Powell can afford to see the error as an aberration.

“Ben’s a top, top keeper and he’s made a mistake,” said the manager.

“I don’t need to speak to him because it’s happened. There isn’t anything I can correct with that. He didn’t mean to do it and there is nothing I can say, it’s there in Technicolor for him to see. It just happens. No problem.”

Charlton fell behind after five minutes to an Anthony Wordsworth strike but pressurised their opponents throughout until Hamer’s late error inflicted a third League loss of the season.

The last came on New Year’s Eve whereafter the south London club won their next four and Powell expects a similar reaction, starting with Saturday’s match at home to Notts County.

“I’ve not had to do this too often which is testament to our players but every time we’ve lost we’ve bounced back,” he said.

“Everyone is downhearted at losing our home record and it’s tough to take. I’m philosophical about it because it’s a tough ask going through 23 games at home.

“We were well on our way but we still have these 11 games, and are in a good position. We just need to regroup. I think it’s time for us to show our resolve again.”

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