DAVE BASSETT stated on course for a seventh career promotion as his hard working Crystal Palace outfit last night killed off Charlton to reach a Wembley play off final against Leicester.

Palace proved the stronger and more durable side on a night chilly enough for Charlton's highly rated midfielder Lee Bowyer to wear gloves.

Perhaps the bravest Selhurst performance came from a male streaker. He ignored the unseasonal May weather to dart across the pitch.

Back on the pitch, veteran Ray Houghton was streaking everywhere for Palace. His cool head and penetrating runs gave Palace a dimension Charlton never matched, although Shaun Newton came close.

In the first leg Charlton failed to capitalise on an early goal. This time Palace snatched a quick lead and laboured tirelessly to preserve it.

Leading 2-1 as a result of their valiant comeback, Palace stretched their advantage further after only four minutes. Charlton's big defenders were caught up field as Palace successfully defended a corner and broke quickly.

Bowyer was badly exposed as Charlton's last line of defence, made a hash of his challenge on George Ndah and the ball fell to Houghton who calmly steered it past Andy Petterson.