The Wearsiders had come from behind in a frantic opening to their penultimate Premiership match of the season to lead 2-1 after 11 minutes.

Starting the day fourth from bottom and just two points ahead of Ipswich, the Wearsiders found themselves behind to Jason Euell’s goal after just 63 seconds.

But Kevin Kilbane equalised almost immediately and Kevin Phillips headed in a second in the 11th minute, his first since scoring against Manchester United on February 2.

But it was Charlton who finally did alter the scoreline as their pressure told.

Johansson’s control had allowed Sorensen to smother when the striker raced through onto Kiely’s long clearance.

However, the next chance was volleyed into the net by Kevin Lisbie after the visitors’ defence failed to clear Stuart’s chipped cross into the six-yard box.