Sunday 13 May 2018 20:25, UK
Charlton caretaker boss Lee Bowyer believes they were the better side despite losing to Shrewsbury in the play-off semi-finals.
Carlton Morris' goal at New Meadow wrapped up a 2-0 aggregate win for the Shrews on Sunday, after Jon Nolan's strike had won the first leg for Paul Hurst's side on Thursday night.
A dejected Bowyer told Sky Sports: "They scored two goals and we didn't, but were they the better side over two legs? I don't think so.
"First half we dominated possession but didn't take care of the ball in the final third, and that was the difference. We were on top but we didn't take our chances again, and if you don't take your chances you won't win games."
Charlton could arguably feel aggrieved after a couple of decisions went against them in the first half. Goalscorer Morris was guilty of an elbow on Patrick Bauer which went unpunished by the referee, and they also had a big shout for a penalty when Mat Sadler appeared to handball Joe Aribo's cross in the box just before the break. Bowyer, however, refused to blame the officials.
"I'm not going to stand here and criticise anyone," he said. "It's a hard enough job for the referees at any time. Emotions are running high and what I will do is wish them the best of luck in the final, they've done a job on us and that's why they ended up finishing third this season.
"I'm devastated and the lads are devastated, but I haven't said a word of negativity because they've given me 100 per cent again. I also want to thank the fans for their support, the lads are gutted for them as well. They left everything out there today and I feel sorry for them. It just didn't happen for us over the two legs."
