Defeated Charlton appeal Hamer ban

League One

Charlton’s Ben Hamer reacts after being sent off against Leyton Orient (PA)

Charlton confirmed yesterday that they had appealed against Ben Hamer's red card, which was brandished at the goalkeeper during the league leaders' surprising 1-0 loss at lowly Leyton Orient on Saturday.

Referee Dean Whitestone indicated that Hamer was sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity, rather than deliberate handball, when he was adjudged to have handled outside the area. As a result of the appeal, Hamer is available for selection by manager Chris Powell for Charlton's home game against Brentford today.

Following Hamer's dismissal on Saturday, the goalkeeper's replacement, John Sullivan, failed to reach Matt Spring's 20-yard deflected drive which handed Orient victory and consigned Charlton to their second league defeat of 2011.

Despite the dispiriting defeat, Powell expressed pleasure at Charlton's positioning in the league. "I'm very happy with where we are, I'll take that," said Powell.

"At the halfway point, we are where we want to be. It's up to us now to continue showing the consistency and showing the battling qualities and our thought process in how we approach each game."

Powell was frustrated, though, with how the exacting Christmas schedule could affect both the fans and his squad. "I just think in this current climate, not just in football, but in society with regards to finances, I think it's hard on the supporters," added Powell.

"We are fortunate that it's two London games. I know it's tradition but one game should be enough over this period. You can pick up injuries, and teams that have small squads will. Obviously it's a test for my squad now."