ONCE again Charlton were the victims of appalling luck as Dwight Yorke headed Manchester United's winner in the 89th minute at The Valley on Saturday.

In two of the previous three home matches, the gods were not on the Addicks' side

Against Aston Villa, Richard Rufus scored an unfortunate own-goal. Result: 1-0 defeat.

A week later Ray Parlour was cut down in the penalty area and Overmars made no mistake for 10-man Arsenal. Result: 1-0 defeat.

And on Sunday, Charlton battled bravely throughout against Alex Ferguson's Manchester United before Paul Scholes' perfect cross was met by Yorke. Result: 1-0 defeat.

"I know we're on a bad run but the season's not over yet," said boss Alan Curbishley. And following tough ties against Wimbledon on Monday and Liverpool on February 13, Charlton can look forward to a string of winnable fixtures.

Four consecutive games against Derby, Nottingham Forest, Coventry and Leicester will give Charlton their best chance yet of recovery.

q Key Charlton defender Richard Rufus looks doubtful for Monday's crucial fixture against Wimbledon. The 24-year-old Lewisham player damaged his wrist in the first half against Manchester United, but played to the end.

q Charlton's U19s drew 1-1 with Fulham at Sparrows Lane on Friday. Charlie Macdonald converted for the Addicks after an Anthony Allman free-kick hit the bar.

q Next week's reserve game against Peterborough has been re-arranged for Wednesday February 17. It has also been decided that all remaining reserves games this season (apart from the two fun nights, against Portsmouth on March 10 and

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