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.

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.