Tristan Crama scored the only goal of the game in Exeter’s League One win over Charlton.
The on-loan Brentford defender, who turned 23 on Friday, was outstanding in keeping the Addicks at bay and then scored the only goal of the game with a superb header to settle an even contest between the two promotion hopefuls.
Charlton started well with Matty Godden heading straight at Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth but chances were largely at a premium in a cagey first half.
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The second half started with Conor Coventry placing a shot just wide of the upright from a smart free kick move for the Addicks, while Ilmari Niskanen saw a shot deflect into the side-netting with Charlton goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer rooted to the spot.
That led to Exeter's 13th corner of the game and this time, in the 59th minute, Crama got across his man to guide a brilliant header into the net from Ed Francis' delivery.
Charlton had a glorious chance to level when former Addick Ben Purrington sold Whitworth short with a back header but Godden dragged his shot wide of the upright from 15 yards.
Alex Mitchell also headed a great chance wide as Charlton laid siege to the Exeter goal but they could not force the ball home.