It was only a tin-pot competition anyway. No, in all seriousness it was another frustrating night to be an an Addick as for the second time in a week we failed to do ourselves justice on TV.
Southampton were fully deserving of their victory and showed why they have picked up steam - a smattering of rearguard experience, talent in the centre of the park and a genuine goal threat.
So the Wembley dream is over for now and Parky must rally the troops in time for Saturday's clash with our nearest challengers. The cameras won't be on the Addicks with such vigour this time but the glare of the Valley faithful will be.
Bailey, Racon and the Nigeria-spurning Sodje should return to give us some oomph, while McKenzie - fresh from opening his Charlton account - will be eager for a starting role.
Paul Ince's men are in confident mood and what with us struggling and them soaring, the Dons will fully expect to beat us this weekend, which is why we will need some experience to see us through.
I would like to see the aforementioned McKenzie in partnership with fellow veteran Deon Burton but with both far from fully fit, I would not mind seeing Mooney given another opportuinty either. He looked like a lost sheep in the first 45 at St Mary's but gradually came into the game and provided a few neat moments.
Our visitors will not be at full strength as top scorer Jermaine Easter is on international duty with Wales, but Sam Baldock looks an able deputy having notched twice in the JP Trophy win against Northampton.
It will be tense at the weekend as even at this embryonic stage of the season, slipping out of the top two would be a psychological downer. However, I am, perhaps foolishly, going to go with the Addicks and predict that amid the familiar surroundings of the Valley, we will pick up a much-needed win.
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