Charlton boss Nathan Jones felt his side’s dramatic 4-3 win at Southend showed why the FA Cup is the best competition in the world.
Gassan Ahadme’s strike in the dying seconds of extra time saw the Addicks through to the second round.
Jones admitted he was relieved to avoid an upset against their National League hosts.
“We should’ve gone through comfortably but as it was it was a wonderful, romantic cup tie that, praise the lord, we came out on the right side of,” said Jones.
“There’s masses of relief for us because it could’ve gone any way at the end.
“They showed great spirit, they fought and it was a really good cup tie.
“This is why this is as good as there is in the world.
“Yes you have the Champions League where everything is perfect and everyone is fluent but this is the best cup in the world.”
Charlton’s progression had initially looked quite straightforward as headers from Miles Leaburn and Zach Mitchell putting them 2-0 ahead.
Matty Godden wasted a huge chance to make it 3-0 before Southend got back into the game as Jack Bridge scored from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time.
Oli Coker made it 2-2 seven minutes into the second half before Charlton went back ahead in front in the 66th minute with Godden sliding the ball in from close range.
Southend again fought back, with Josh Edwards deflecting Josh Walker’s shot into his own net three minutes into stoppage time to take the match to extra time where Charlton ultimately triumphed.
But Shrimpers boss Kevin Maher does not want his side to be labelled unlucky losers.
“I hate losing and I hate losing in that manner, “said Maher.
“I hate pats on the back for being unlucky losers.
“I hate it but when I do look back at it I’ll be proud of the players for how we played.”
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