Dagenham & Redbridge begin life without Paul Benson (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Dagenham & Redbridge begin life without Paul Benson

8:46am Wednesday 1st September 2010 in

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DAGENHAM & Redbridge must go into Saturday's big derby against Leyton Orient without star striker Paul Benson.

The prolific hitman this week completed a move to League One rivals Charlton Athletic.

And, in a bizarre twist of fate, Benson made his debut for his new club on Tuesday - against the Daggers.

The JP Trophy first-round tie at The Valley ended in a 1-0 win for Charlton, ending Dagenham's interest in the competition.

Thierry Racon hit the winner just before the hour mark. Benson started up front for the hosts, but was unable to find the net against his old team-mates.

The Daggers are still looking for their first win in League One. They nearly got it against Tranmere Rovers at the weekend, but threw away a two-goal lead, eventually drawing 2-2.

Romain Vincelot and Mark Arber had put the home side seemingly in control, but Rovers hit back with two goals in the final 12 minutes.