Scott Gardner: They didn't get what they deserved

A first half goal from Charlton Athletic Under-21s condemned Leeds United Under-21s to a narrow defeat at Princes Park on Friday evening despite an encouraging performance.

The Premier League Cup fixture was the Whites' second in Group I of the competition, following a goalless draw away at Stoke City, and Scott Gardner was happy with what he saw from his players.

"I thought overall, absolutely excellent," the boss complimented. "Barring one bit of quality from them once it gets to the goal, and a bit of luck inside the box for us, but in between I couldn't have asked for any more, so I'm really proud of them actually.

"I thought the game was totally connected. I don't think at any point, maybe towards the back end as we started to search for a goal, I thought we were in total control.

"All the more physical side, I thought they dealt with it incredibly well and I'm just disappointed that they didn't get what they deserved."

Gardner is confident that his side will be rewarded for their efforts in the coming games, stating: "Last week we were disappointed to lose against Liverpool, two decisions go against you, and tonight with a bit of luck at both ends, maybe you get a goal, but it's coming.

"I'm confident we'll get a result out there, a result and performance that mirror each other.

"The last two games were significantly better than the West Brom game. So it's a strange one because you don't want to be happy about losing games, but equally, we want to win a certain way, and I feel we're close."

And finally, the U21s coach praised the excellent support from the travelling Whites.

"Amazing that people want to take the time out on a Friday evening to come up to Dartford and watch us play. That shows what the club's about, and we're proud to work for this club and play for this club."