Half-Time Report: Johnnie Jackson brace makes it all square at the break

A Johnnie Jackson brace helped Charlton Athletic overturn a two-goal deficit at The Valley this evening to go into the break level with league leaders Cardiff City.

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The Welsh outfit almost took the lead in the third minute when winger Craig Noone hit a powerful right-footed effort towards goal, forcing an impressive save from Ben Hamer between the home sticks.

They took the lead two minutes later. Andrew Taylor crossed in from the right before Heidar Helguson headed home from six yards out.

Peter Whittingham almost doubled Cardiff's advantage on 22 minutes, but Hamer produced a good stop to keep out his left-footed drive.

It was only a matter of time before Malky Mackay's team extended their lead, and they did just that in the 24th minute. Helguson was the provider this time, lining the ball up for Joe Mason to smash in from close range.

Charlton pulled a goal back against the run of play on 39 minutes, with Jackson finding the top corner after good work from Michael Morrison.

Cardiff were left kicking themselves at the stroke of half-time when they allowed Charlton to draw level. Salim Kerkar whipped in a corner and Jackson pounced to make it 2-2 at half-time.