Coventry have taken 52 points from 29 games under Frank Lampard Coventry City beat Middlesbrough to book a Championship play-off spot thanks to two goals from midfielder Jack Rudoni Rudoni glanced home in the 44th minute and then sealed matters late on to ensure a fifth-place finish and set up a two-legged semi-final against Sunderland But the Sky Blues were also indebted to recalled goalkeeper Ben Wilson for victory as he made crucial saves to preserve his side's advantage Boro needed to win to have any chance of finishing in the top six and hit the woodwork through Morgan Whittaker But there was only disappointment as Michael Carrick's side end the season in 10th place Championship: Leeds win late on to clinch title; Luton down The Sky Blues were 17th when Frank Lampard replaced the popular Mark Robins in November But only the top three in the Championship have collected more points in the ensuing period than Lampard's side and they have been especially strong at the CBS Arena with 35 points from 15 games But defeats at relegation-threatened Plymouth Argyle and Luton Town had left their top-six spot in jeopardy Following that late loss at Kenilworth Road Lampard took the big decision to drop goalkeeper Brad Collins following a couple of costly mistakes in the run-in In front of a club-record crowd at the ground of 31,452 the home side were quicker out of the blocks and Ellis Simms and Ben Sheaf were both off target with good early chances made a fantastic fingertip save to deny Finn Azaz in the best opportunity of the half They were ahead shortly afterwards as Rudoni produced a textbook glancing header from an excellent Tatsuhiro Sakamoto cross Jack Rudoni has scored six goals in his last 10 games Boro have been hunting a play-off spot all season but a goalless draw at home to Norwich City last Saturday had seen their play-off chances slip out of their own hands But their results since the turn of the year leading into this game had brought just 27 points from 21 games Carrick added six players in the transfer window but they have struggled to replace the goals of Emmanuel Latte Lath who went to the MLS has not played since January due to injury They had ittle option but to attack after the break and Azaz would have equalised but for a superb block from Wilson And the goalkeeper had to be alert to save two more Azaz efforts yet substitute Delano Burgzorg wasted their best chance as he blazed over inside the area Home substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante crashed one against the post before Whittaker did likewise at the other end But Rudoni settled any nerves three minutes from time sweeping past Mark Travers to round off a counter attack the 23-year-old has been a driving force in giving his side the end-of-season chance to book a Premier League spot While Coventry contemplate what may happen in the next three weeks Boro will have to reflect on a season that has fizzled out Coventry City manager Frank Lampard told BBC CWR: "It's great work from everyone involved It's tense – it's a long week going into the game We've got ourselves into this position but it's one game and anything can happen "Our performance was brilliant in the first half and I really felt the power of us in the second half We were brilliant on the counter-attack and showed great desire to defend our box "I'm really delighted we've got there and now we've got to take a breath and understand that it's a step Now we have to recover and go again for Sunderland." Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick told BBC Radio Tees: put in a really good performance for the most part and didn't get what we wanted from the game "We didn't manage to take our opportunities and in the end "The fact we haven't got in the play-offs is hurtful enough We've created our own expectations which is the positive The boys have shown what they can do and we feel the disappointment we haven't got that there is not really much difference to be honest." 8 May (20:00 BST) – Bristol City v Sheffield United 9 May (20:00 BST) – Coventry City v Sunderland 12 May (20:00 BST) – Sheffield United v Bristol City 13 May (20:00 BST) – Sunderland v Coventry City To load Comments you need to enable JavaScript in your browser The BBC is not responsible for any changes that may be made Thomas-Asante at 72 minutesSubstituteshome team Thomas-Asante at 72 minutesSubstitutesNumber 8 Ịheanachọ Match OfficialsReferee: Stuart AttwellAssistant Referee 1: Constantine HatzidakisAssistant Referee 2: Natalie AspinallFourth Official: Robert MadleyMatch StatsKey Scroll LeftScroll RightCoventry City have won four of their last five league games against Middlesbrough (D1) scoring exactly three goals in each of their last three wins during that time Middlesbrough have lost each of their last three away league games against Coventry City failing to score a single goal during that time Coventry have won their final game of a league season in just one of the last seven campaigns (D3 L3) a 6-1 home victory over Millwall in May 2021 Only once since the 2012-13 season have Middlesbrough lost more away league games than this campaign (11) though during that season (12 in 2022-23) they did compete in the Championship play-offs Coventry have won 13 of their home games in the Championship this season (D3 L6) last enjoying more victories on home soil in a second tier campaign in 1966-67 (14) Finn Azaz (Middlesbrough) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked Matt Grimes (Coventry City) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner Matt Grimes (Coventry City) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked Haji Wright (Coventry City) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked Morgan Whittaker (Middlesbrough) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right Fourth official has announced 6 minutes of added time Joel Latibeaudiere replaces Tatsuhiro Sakamoto Bobby Thomas (Coventry City) wins a free kick in the defensive half Jack Rudoni (Coventry City) left footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom right corner Assisted by Brandon Thomas-Asante following a fast break Marcus Forss (Middlesbrough) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked Jack Rudoni (Coventry City) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked Ben Wilson (Coventry City) is shown the yellow card Jack Rudoni (Coventry City) wins a free kick in the defensive half Win HappyPremiumSearch Rayohits radiocoventrynewsCoventry primary school pupils remembering VE Day 80 years onThis week commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE Day This Thursday (8th May) marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day a day of remembrance for the end of the second world war VE Day is set to be commemorated in various ways here in Coventry and Warwickshire there are preparations for street parties in Coventry city centre and a beacon will be lit as a sign of remembrance in Warwickshire St Patrick's Catholic Primary School in Coventry visited the Commonwealth War Graves exhibition which is touring to multiple destinations this week Pupils went along to learn about VE Day and the importance of preserving the memories of those who fought in the war told us why it's important to remember VE Day: "We have to remember the soldiers who died in the war and it's very important that we pass their stories on to the next generation." also shared why it's important to remember the war on VE Day Bonnie said: "I think it's important because when we can teach the younger generations about the war and we can pass on stories which we have learnt ourselves on VE Day." First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app. Щоб переглянути сайт, увімкніть JavaScript у своєму браузері PA MediaIt's the play-offs again for Coventry His outstanding display against Middlesbrough on Saturday was the catalyst to an excellent victory in front of a club-record crowd at the CBS Arena The 23-year-old - signed last summer after two solid but unspectacular seasons at Huddersfield which concluded in relegation - has blossomed with the Sky Blues Against Middlesbrough in a high-stakes game His ability to maintain possession of the ball in tight areas is superb; he didn't seem to go more than 30 seconds without touching the ball such was his presence in all areas of Coventry's attacking play Rudoni possesses the instinctive qualities that take him into areas that make him a supreme goal threat as well He's now scored nine goals this season - all but two of the coming since the appointment of boss Lampard who told me after the game that he is a huge admirer of his midfield lynchpin "I work with him a lot because he's easy to work with," said Lampard Sometimes when you work with a player and you see him grow and improve individually Lampard will now hope Rudoni can help guide Coventry to the Premier League he looks to be a top-flight player in the making - as astute a signing as any Championship side made last summer Champions League updates: Calafiori back training for Arsenal before PSG semi-final Stunning stats and 'Ronaldo behaviour' - is Yamal cut out to rival Messi Real seek to sign Alexander-Arnold for Club World Cup A gritty crime saga set in Liverpool starring Sean Bean Stacey Dooley explores Britain’s shoplifting epidemic Who has made Troy's Premier League team of the week Is the risk that Mercedes took with Antonelli paying off Trailblazer Zhao set to take snooker to 'another level' in China 'Calamity keeper' or 'human wall' - which Donnarumma will Arsenal face Zhao beats Williams in historic final - highlights VideoZhao beats Williams in historic final - highlights Alexander-Arnold leaves as modern Liverpool great - but fans will feel hurt 'Scheffler and DeChambeau wins further raise US PGA excitement levels' Match-fixing scandal to Crucible champion - fall and rise of Zhao 'We need to take a look at ourselves' - Arsenal stalling at wrong time Europa League 'papering over cracks' for Man Utd - Rooney VideoEuropa League 'papering over cracks' for Man Utd - Rooney Ask Me Anything the new BBC Sport service designed to serve you Bayern's 'James Bond' - how Kane clinched his first trophy Nine bolters with a shot of making the Lions squad How 'absolutely outstanding' Palmer 'destroyed' Liverpool VideoHow 'absolutely outstanding' Palmer 'destroyed' Liverpool Solskjaer on Besiktas Saints 'punch' favourites Leinster in game for the ages VideoVardy the best £1m ever spent - Shearer Poppy's tears Elton John & Happy Gilmore - McIlroy on Jimmy Fallon show Copyright © 2025 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking. US EditionUK EditionScottish SunIrish SunSearchMy Account Coventry City continued their remarkable comeback under Frank Lampard to seal a Championship play-off spot on the final day of the season - and broke club records in the process The Sky Blues’ monumental 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough saw the club break an attendance record at the CBS Arena A total of 31,452 fans celebrated their side’s rise from the ashes of a relegation battle to continue their push for Premier League promotion on Saturday A double from 23-year-old midfielder Jack Rudoni earned a crucial three points that saw Coventry finish fifth and book a place in the post-season play-offs while consigning Boro to tenth and four points off the top-six The huge attendance at the formerly-named Ricoh Arena is a reflection of the club’s resurgence under English football legend Lampard The Chelsea icon took charge in mid-November when Coventry were sitting 17th and just two points above the bottom-three He was one game away from taking the club to the top flight, too, when they were beaten in the 2023 play-off final by Luton. Coventry fans were outraged by his sacking, but their rise since Lampard’s appointment has made that a distant memory.  On April 6 the Sky Blues beat Leeds United - crowned champions on the final day on goal difference over Burnley who both finished on 100 points - in front of 30,232 supporters the biggest ever crowd for a Coventry match in the league at the stadium That record was then broken again less than two weeks later on April 18 as they beat West Brom 2-0 with a home crowd of 31,167 That was still less than the overall record Coventry attendance at the Arena which stood at 31,407 from their FA Cup quarter-final against Chelsea in 2009 But Saturday’s final day play-off celebration eclipsed even that to set their new home attendance record at 31,452 Coventry will now face Sunderland across two legs in the play-off semi-finals to earn a shot at the big time at Wembley Stadium But Lampard is not getting carried away with more work to be done as he joined talkSPORT after the game for his reaction Asked if the manner of this play-off place feels different from when he got there with Derby we came in at a pre-season at Derby and worked through the season so firstly I thank my staff because when you come in you want to make quick impact they're good at things that I'm not so good at and all those things to do the uplift from 17th to come fifth and get to the playoffs we're saying thanks to the fans because they support us all season Lampard even paid tribute to Robins for his work over seven and a half years as Coventry manager as well as the club's fans and chairman Doug King for giving him the opportunity and backing him all the way “The fans have been brilliant from the beginning," added the boss Because of social media you know that there are people who question you but to be a manager you have to have a tough skin and be ready for that he's got a real passion for this football club and he's involved to the point where I'm like He's really engaging with me and that makes it easy to work with "Credit to Mike Robbins because what he's done here is build the club up and do things that I can never do here from League Two up here and play a final and FA Cup semi-final “But then we've got on a roll and everyone's brought into it together. So if we stick together, we've got a chance.” Rex FeaturesPublished5 May 2025Coventry City goalkeeper Ben Wilson says it was "amazing" to play in the final game of the regular Championship season and help the Sky Blues reach the play-offs Wilson hadn't started since October but was brought in to replace Brad Collins for the 2-0 win over Middlesbrough and made six saves including a number of vital stops to preserve the lead Boss Frank Lampard said the 32-year-old was "outstanding" and can be "very happy with his performance" following a long spell out with a knee injury "It was obviously fantastic to get the result, to get the clean sheet," Wilson told BBC CWR "I was actually a nervous wreck from the start being out of the team for such a long time and trying to get back fit "It's been a bit of a longer process than what I thought training as hard as I can to be ready for this moment "I thank the gaffer for putting me in I've been wanting to play for weeks now and luckily we got the clean sheet and we got the win Wilson said it was "class" to make several brilliant saves against Boro "The voice from the fans and the support from all of the lads in front of me it helped make it even more special," he added Coventry will face Sunderland in the play-off semi-final with the first leg at the CBS Arena on Friday before the return leg away from home on 13 May Listen to Wilson's full interview on BBC Sounds. You have reached ESPN's UK edition. Stay on current site or go to US version Coventry City sealing a Championship playoff spot is just the beginning for the West Midlands club and they will not get carried away after their remarkable turnaround this season manager Frank Lampard said after their win against Middlesbrough Since taking the Coventry job in November, former Chelsea boss Lampard has lifted the club from 17th to fifth in the Championship table Coventry will now play fourth-placed Sunderland in the two-legged playoff semifinal after beating Middlesbrough 2-0 at home on Saturday they're good at things that I'm not so good at and all those things," Lampard told talkSPORT on Saturday Frank Lampard's Coventry City have secured a Championship playoff spot. Photo by Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images"And then existing staff and players we're saying thanks to the fans because they support us all season I think everyone should be happy tonight." The 46-year-old former England midfielder also had some kind words for his predecessor Mark Robins who was the third longest-serving manager in the top four divisions of English football before being sacked in November Robins had returned to Coventry for a second spell in 2017 and led them from League Two to the Championship In 2023, he took Coventry to the Championship playoff final where they lost to Luton Town on penalties and they missed out on an FA Cup final place when they were beaten by Manchester United in a shootout after a stunning fightback from 3-0 down "Credit to Mark Robins because what he's done here is build the club up and do things that I can never do here from League Two up here and play a final and FA Cup semifinal Coventry host Sunderland in the first leg on May 9 with the second leg taking place on May 13 Coventry were 17th and two points off the relegation places when Lampard was “given a chance” by owner, Doug King, in November after 18 months out of the game. 16 victories in 31 league games later and they finished the season in fifth place. A two-legged tie against Sunderland awaits, with the home leg first next Friday, but there was little celebration from Lampard, who has an eye on more success yet. Read more“I have always respected Coventry because of the history and tradition of the club,” Lampard said I didn’t quite realise the sound they make here I’m pleased that I am a small part in the club’s success because I think what’s happening now with the fans engaging and the players doing what they need to do has been a great thing for us it needs everybody together to manage to do that.” A double for Jack Rudoni earned the three points the all-action midfielder one of the players who has benefited from Lampard’s guidance Clearly the Coventry squad still reflects Mark Robins’ influence over seven seasons but nobody is better placed to offer advice on arriving in the box than the Premier League’s record goalscorer from midfield Jack Rudoni opens the scoring for Coventry Photograph: Bradley Collyer/PA“I think Thursday me and him just stayed out working on little cutbacks and finishes in different areas and it’s good because today showed that when you do that The second goal was indeed a low finish from a cutback on a breakaway a header into the bottom corner after Rudoni pulled away from the crowds to meet a Tatsuhiro Sakamoto cross Coventry were made to work for their victory. Initial domination was slowly throttled by Middlesbrough who themselves had come into the game with the chance of entering the playoffs if they could secure three points While Rudoni and Sakamoto were most dangerous in the opening half hour Boro’s Finn Azaz and Morgan Whittaker imposed themselves in the match’s middle third Conceding before half-time was not ideal for Middlesbrough but could have equalised after half-time only for Azaz’s fierce shot to be parried to safety by goalkeeper Ben Wilson on the hour Wilson also made a crucial interception to cut out Whittaker in a move that led to the second goal who had suffered a serious knee injury earlier in the season was making his first appearance since October Lampard’s decision to drop Brad Collins for Wilson was bold but paid off his decision to bring on Brandon Thomas-Asante for Ellis Simms in the second half turned the game Asante’s pace gave Coventry a direct outlet that killed Boro’s momentum and it was the 26-year-old who chased down Wilson’s clearance to put Rudoni’s second goal on a plate a period of calm may be required to get perspective on their season Carrick said that a lack of consistency had been his team’s undoing and he pointed to an organised but progressive performance here as signs that the team have foundations on which to develop Equally there will be those looking at league finishes over Carrick’s tenure of fourth eighth and 10th and wondering if it is heading in the right direction Frank Lampard is embraced by owner Doug King at the final whistle Photograph: Bradley Collyer/PA“It was quiet in the dressing room it’s a sickening feeling,” Carrick said afterwards We can definitely go forward together after today As a group we’ve done some good work over the past three years I do feel we’ve got a lot to build on.” Asked if he was planning for being at the Riverside Stadium next season “Let’s have the belief that the lads can reignite their pressing How can they not with a hopefully sold-out I’ve totally bought into the approach that the club has taken these last few weeks but - just as importantly - mentally resting them We’ve heard all the arguments for and against We’ve seen the crowds flock out of the Stadium of Light at full-time after the QPR defeat I couldn’t get up for the game on Saturday and I can tell you that the commentators were somewhat baffled by the negative response from the crowd for a team comfortably finishing in the playoff places Not a good impression for the watching public But - you can’t stop people expressing themselves But I don’t want to bang on about the pros and cons of the recent run But if my own inbox is gathering negative responses from my own friends and family I can only guess what the general consensus is building up to look like if the plan was to lose five games in a row I’m not sure how anyone can agree with that!” was one comment I wrote a piece a couple of weeks ago about “Protection versus Momentum” - which someone else threw back at me - obviously insinuating that the lack of momentum is going to be our downfall If I were to admit that even my own confidence was slightly knocked after our final game then that says a lot about the resolve needed to back this approach this isn’t about arguing one way or another - it’s about us all coming together to support and back the lads and the club to the hilt in this coming week I listened to a lovely interview with Julio Arca - and apart from his love of the club and area shining through - he joined a long list of ex-players being asked how these recent defeats would affect morale and the team he joined the now-majority of players who said it had little to do with anything and although he said the game was disappointing he recalled similar situations in his career when they reached a game that mattered the players found that extra percent and that extra drive His own observation was that players were cruising slightly and some were pulling out of tackles to avoid injury so let’s wait until we’ve tasted it this Friday and Tuesday night My feeling last night was one of slight deflation there are now two paths available this week for fans: be negative and miserable and think that the team of earlier in the season has been beamed up by aliens and watch the Coventry first leg behind the sofa; or be positive and convinced that this talented team can indeed put their bodies on the line when it is required that they do so I’m really looking forward to travelling up; I’ve treated myself to a Sunderland hotel my stepson will have two days off school (a hospital appointment! and my recent form of being subdued at a match will be transformed at the flick of a switch to one of exuberance and vocal support Maybe we aren’t quite ready for the Premier League but no one has the luxury of choosing when you get promoted Let’s have the belief that the lads can reignite their pressing stick the negativity and the momentum argument in the cupboard under the stairs and let’s do our part for our team and our lads It is 5th vs 4th in the Championship play-offs Sport | Football The Championship play-offs has set up a semi-final clash between Coventry and Sunderland For Coventry to be in with a chance of promotion to the Premier League, a lot of credit must go to Frank Lampard the side were 17th in the table and only two points above the relegation zone Whilst a late wobble threatened to undo that good work the Sky Blues kept their nerve on the final day to beat Middlesbrough and clinch their fifth-place finish Standing in their way of a second Championship play-off final appearance in three years is a Sunderland side that made certain of a play-off place with five games to spare Here is everything you need to know about the play-off semi-final Coventry vs Sunderland is scheduled for a 8pm BST kick-off on Friday The match will take place at The Coventry Building Society Arena the game will be televised live on Sky Sports Football Coverage starts at 7pm BST ahead of an 8pm kick-off Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app Coventry were boosted by the returns of Milan van Ewijk and Bobby Thomas from injury for the 2-0 win over Middlesbrough Jay Dasilva misses out because of suspension Sunderland expect to have Romaine Mundle available for the play-off semi-final first leg after missing the last seven games with a hamstring injury. Dan Ballard made his return from a long lay-off against QPR, whilst Jobe Bellingham is set to feature they go into the play-off semi-final first leg on the back of five straight defeats Academy heads should be able to seek return to local authority control – union Comedian Milton Jones reveals he has prostate cancer and cancels UK tour dates Meal2Deal: on a mission to make food poverty history Coventry may have stuttered in the home straight but they have more than enough about them to get the job done over two legs Coventry are unbeaten in both meetings against Sunderland this season They fought back from 2-0 down to earn a point at the Stadium of Light back in November before recording a 3-0 home win in March VE Day 2025 fashion: best looks from the day VE Day 2025 fashion: Princess of Wales to Lady Victoria Starmer Prince Louis steals the show at VE Day parade as he keeps dad William looking sharp and mimics brother George Prince Louis steals show with sweet antics at VE parade David Beckham extends olive branch to son Brooklyn amid 'family feud' Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in major blow for Putin ahead of Victory Day celebrations Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in blow for Putin Pregnant Jesy Nelson reveals plans for future in message from her hospital bed after surgery Pregnant Jesy Nelson reveals plans for future in message from hospital Northern Sports CorrespondentSaturday May 03 2025 The Sunday TimesWhat a day for Coventry City ole ole!” Coventry supporters shouted out from every stand and just about every seat inside the Coventry Building Society Arena It was a sky blue day; the trains snaking their way to the stadium had been filled with that colour The sun was shining for Coventry and on a triumphant day the other vociferous chant was for “super Franky Lampard” Coventry were 17th and Lampard had not had a job for 18 months What a transformational time it has been for both manager and club since Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF. Hear the thoughts of the head coach below.. Nick Ferrari At Breakfast is Leading Britain's Conversation United needed to match Burnley’s result to beat them to the crown them champions on goal difference Manor Solomon scored the winning goal in injury-time earning the side automatic promotion to the top tier of English football in dramatic style Their 2-1 victory and superior goal difference rendered Burnley’s 3-1 win over Millwall meaningless in the title race though staggeringly it ensured both sides ended the season with 100 points Frank Lampard’s Coventry earned a 2-0 home win over Middlesbrough securing a top-six spot while Boro will miss out They go into their play-off semi-final first-leg against Sunderland who are on the back of five consecutive losses on Friday May 9 Read more: Mikel Arteta admits it has been "painful" to see Liverpool win the tile after Arsenal come up short Read more: 'A completely normal lad' – football stars reflect on David Beckham as he turns 50 Now sixth-placed Bristol City fought back to secure a 2-2 draw against relegation-threatened Preston at Ashton Gate Bristol will host Sheffield in the first-leg play-off clash on Thursday May 8 Blackburn were looked set for a spot in the top six but conceded an equaliser to Sheffield United in a 1-1 draw who have suffered a second successive relegation after a 5-3 defeat at West Brom Derby and Stoke played out a goalless draw to keep their second-tier spots Birmingham and Wrexham promoted have been promoted to the Championship Stockport County will play Leyton Orient in the EFL League One playoffs with the first leg taking place at Brisbane Road on Saturday May 10 It comes after their 4-1 over Huddersfield Wycombe will play Charlton as the sides clash for an opportunity to reach the second tier a dramatic 96th minute-goal saw Bradford City secure third places in League Two to reach the play-offs Donacaster won the division with awin over Notts County while second placed Port Vale lost to Gillingham Chesterfield have also reached thE play-offs having only been promoted to League Two last season and Notts County have also reached the play-offs See more More Latest News See more Latest News See more The News Explained See more Royals See more Highlights & Opinion See more More Topics Frank Lampard has collected 52 points from 29 games as Coventry City boss Coventry City manager Frank Lampard was thrilled that his "big call" to change his goalkeeper was rewarded as the Sky Blues secured a Championship play-off spot Lampard brought in Ben Wilson for his first start since October to replace Brad Collins and the recalled Wilson made six saves in the 2-0 win over Middlesbrough It now sets up Coventry for a play-off semi-final against Sunderland with the first leg at the CBS Arena on Friday (20:00 BST) "It's a big call," Lampard told BBC CWR "All eyes go on the goalkeeper when you make a change for the last game of the season He can be very happy with his performance." Ben Wilson's appearance against Middlesbrough was his first for 208 days Collins was dropped following a couple of mistakes in the past few games notably the injury-time winner Luton Town scored at Kenilworth Road seven days ago That result had left Coventry's play-off destiny unknown heading into the final game but Wilson provided a huge barrier to Boro He made a big save to deny Finn Azaz with the game goalless in the first half and then when the visitors threatened an equaliser after the break Wilson came up with some vital saves to preserve that advantage The 32-year-old had a knee injury when Lampard came into the club in November but he returned to fitness waited for his chance and rewarded his manager on Saturday "Ben had quite a bad injury and it was not until recently that he was saying he was feeling better and looking better," he said it's not easy to train at their level he's a big personality in the dressing room and his performance was outstanding considering." Watch Arsenal in Champions League training before crucial semi-final with PSG - latest The final series of Man Like Mobeen has arrived John Simm stars in the provocative 90s drama Warm-hearted comedy with Ben Miller and Sally Phillips Follow two ambitious river restoration projects and the first female President in IOC history following 1 round of voting at the 144th IOC Session in Costa Navarino Lord Sebastian Coe and Morinari Watanabe.* President-elect Coventry said: "I am incredibly honoured and excited to be elected as President of the International Olympic Committee I want to sincerely thank my fellow members for their trust and support “The young girl who first started swimming in Zimbabwe all those years ago could never have dreamt of this moment." I am particularly proud to be the first female IOC President I hope that this vote will be an inspiration to many people and I am fully aware of my responsibilities as a role model.Kirsty CoventryIOC President-elect“Sport has an unmatched power to unite and I am committed to making sure we harness that power to its fullest The future of the Olympic Movement is bright and I can't wait to get started!" IOC President Thomas Bach said: “Congratulations to Kirsty Coventry on her election as the 10th IOC President I warmly welcome the decision of the IOC Members and look forward to strong cooperation There is no doubt that the future for our Olympic Movement is bright and that the values we stand for will continue to guide us through the years to come.” Read President-elect Coventry’s biography and manifesto Kirsty Coventry will succeed the ninth IOC President, Thomas Bach, whose 12-year tenure will officially end after Monday 23 June 2025. The President is elected by the IOC Members by secret ballot for a term of eight years The International Olympic Committee is a not-for-profit international organisation made up of volunteers which is committed to building a better world through sport It redistributes more than 90 per cent of its income to the wider sporting movement which means that every day the equivalent of USD 4.7 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world The IOC Newsroom: https://newsroom.olympics.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/iocmedia For an extensive selection of photos available shortly after each event, please follow us on Flickr To request archive photos and footage, please contact our Content Licensing Unit at: images@olympic.org For up-to-the-minute information on the IOC and regular updates, please follow us on X and YouTube. Coventry and Bristol City into play-offs3 May 20255 Live sport Leeds score late winner at Plymouth and pip Burnley to title Coventry beat Boro and Bristol City draw with Preston to earn play-off places Luton relegated after 5-3 defeat at West Brom Preston and Hull both safe after draws; Derby and Stoke also survive Plymouth also relegated after late defeat by Leeds via WhatsApp on 03301231826 or text 81111 (UK only the Championship season has come to an end Plymouth and Cardiff will all be playing League One football in three months It remains to be seen who will be joining the Whites and Clarets in the Premier League Coventry and Sunderland will contest the play-offs with the semi-final first legs taking place on 8 and 9 May before the second legs on 12 and 13 May The final will then be held at Wembley on Saturday Thank you as always for following along on what has been a dramatic final day in the best league in the world Congratulations and commiserations where due.. enjoy the rest of your day and we will see you again soon 1606Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingThe ecstasy...published at 16:46 British Summer Time 3 May16:46 BST 3 May#bbcefl Leeds United celebrate winning the Championship Coventry boss Frank Lampard celebrates reaching the play-offs Bristol City fans celebrate finishing in a play-off spot for the first time in 17 years And Burnley are back in the Premier League.. 7012Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingThe agony...published at 16:44 British Summer Time 3 May16:44 BST 3 May#bbcefl Luton's Jordan Clark is dejected after relegation Luton fans react after relegation is confirmed Blackburn's Yuko Ohashi after Rovers missed out on the play-offs And Millwall boss Alex Neil after the Lions also fell short of the top six.. 435Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingPostpublished at 16:43 British Summer Time 3 May16:43 BST 3 May#bbcefl They say a picture paints a thousand words Here's a look at the contrast in emotions from today in the Championship.. 231Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We showed the Green Army our character' - Muslicpublished at 16:40 British Summer Time 3 May16:40 BST 3 MayFT: Plymouth 1-2 Leeds Plymouth Argyle head coach Miron Muslic told BBC Sport: We faced by far the best team in our competition "We were relegated last week and still showed this kind of performance to make it very difficult for Leeds to break us - it shows the good spirit and character of the lads "Our obligation today was to give it our all we played for the Green Army and we wanted to reward our fans for the last time with a strong performance "The lads went all in and we simply needed maybe just 120 seconds to have a result we deserved "But that's (what happens) when you face the champions 13210Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We didn't take our chances' - Neilpublished at 16:38 British Summer Time 3 May16:38 BST 3 MayFT: Burnley 3-1 Millwall Millwall boss Alex Neil speaking to BBC Radio London: "Whenever you’re playing the top teams in this division You need to have a game plan; you have to understand you’re not going to dominate the ball "That wasn’t our intention; we tried to get them to risk the ball so we could nick it and try to counter We had opportunities and didn’t make the most of them "In a game of this magnitude when Burnley are chasing the league and we’re chasing play-offs you need to take the key moments and we only converted one But I’ve been involved in those moments where if you take your chances you can take the points 183Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'100 points won't win the league No chance' - Parkerpublished at 16:36 British Summer Time 3 May16:36 BST 3 MayFT: Burnley 3-1 Millwall Burnley manager Scott Parker speaking to BBC Radio Lancashire: "I'm so proud We came into today hoping it would go our way but wanting to win the game and get to 100 points - we did that "If you'd have said to me you'd reach 100 points 16 goals conceded and you wouldn't win the league I'd have said 'no chance' the players' reaction is one of needing to get back in it created numerous chances; on another day it could have been a lot more "The challenge goes up a level or two next year We've got a rock solid foundation and we've proven that this season reboot and we'll come into next year with a driving ambition to be as successful as we can." 6916Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingElsewhere in the EFL...published at 16:32 British Summer Time 3 May16:32 BST 3 May#bbcefl We're nearing the end of our live coverage here from today's final game of the Championship regular season, but you can also follow the conclusion of the League One and League Two campaigns here 133Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We deserved to stay up' - Sellespublished at 16:30 British Summer Time 3 May16:30 BST 3 MayFT: Portsmouth 1-1 Hull City Hull City boss Ruben Selles speaking to BBC Radio Humberside: "I’m very proud of the courage and the way the players managed the game on the pitch "Everyone in the club managed difficult moments and it has been a tough season for everyone and we deserved to stay in the division "We had a team that was rock bottom and to achieve the target this season with all the injuries and everything else is just massive "Now it’s over and we crossed the line we can rest a little bit and I told the players that we will remember this day for years to come." 4811Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'It's a special feeling' - Farkepublished at 16:23 British Summer Time 3 May16:23 BST 3 MayFT: Plymouth 1-2 Leeds Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke told BBC Sport: I want to send my congratulations to Burnley "They've played a season that deserves to be crowned with some silverware "Of course I'm happy that we won this game in the final stages and are officially allowed to label ourselves as champions and be the best team this season "It's an emotionally moving day because we have invested so much and wanted to crown ourselves with some silverware pretty special in the dressing room and I'm very happy for my players and staff 37123Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We look in good shape to stay up this time' - Brownhillpublished at 16:19 British Summer Time 3 May16:19 BST 3 MayFT: Burnley 3-1 Millwall Burnley midfielder Josh Brownhill told BBC Radio 5 Live: "To be promoted to the Premier League again is incredible - to celebrate with the fans at home is special we look in really good shape to go up for next season and hopefully stay up Is is going to be difficult but we've worked hard on everything; our defensive record speaks for itself "Credit to the staff and the fans but mainly the gaffer "If we didn’t win the league it doesn’t matter the main thing was getting promoted and we’ve done that." 7454Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We did everything to land a lucky punch' - Ismaelpublished at 16:14 British Summer Time 3 May16:14 BST 3 MayFT: Sheffield United 1-1 Blackburn Blackburn Rovers boss Valerien Ismael told BBC Radio Lancashire: "Again it was an outstanding performance "The game plan until we conceded was perfect It was exactly what we expected but we conceded the goal too quickly One bad decision and you get punished but I think the performance was right we put every attacking player we have on the pitch we played with only one midfield player to try to have that lucky punch but it was a close call we are disappointed to miss out on the play-offs but at least we build some momentum and we can keep on going for the next season." "Tyrhys Dolan will be a player we will have to show patience [on] – it will be his decision [whether to stay at Blackburn] "He has put himself in a position [to be out of contract] It is a good position for him so we have to respect that he’s got the love we give him but at some point it depends on the offer he has." 149Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'The lads give everything for the shirt' - Manningpublished at 16:10 British Summer Time 3 May16:10 BST 3 MayFT: Bristol City 2-2 Preston Liam Manning told BBC Radio Bristol: "I have no idea how I am feeling "We made real hard work of it but I spoke to the lads beforehand and there's a lot made now about styles and philosophies and we spoke about us to underpin everything with the culture we have got "It says on the shirts 'always believe' and we have done that numerous times now and you see it today - it's a fantastic group of lads I couldn't be more proud of them and what they've done "There's no expectation or pressure on us so we have got to go and be brave and enjoy it the lads give everything for the shirt." 712Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We understand the disappointment and anger'published at 16:05 British Summer Time 3 May16:05 BST 3 MayFT: West Brom 5-3 Luton Luton Town manager Matt Bloomfield told BBC Three Counties Radio: "It is a particularly painful moment for us and everyone associated with our football club "Really disappointing performance considering the day and the performance that we needed to get ourselves out of where we were Sorry to our supporters for traveling up and down the country We understand their disappointment and anger right now "I don’t know [where that performance came from] The goals we gave away were so disappointing We’ve been incredibly resilient in the last two months to really shore up at the back and unfortunately today it just wasn’t there." 4924Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We both got what we needed'published at 16:01 British Summer Time 3 May16:01 BST 3 MayFT: Derby 0-0 Stoke Stoke boss Mark Robins said: "It was a rubbish game but we both ended up getting what we needed "The game was so lacking in quality it’s frightening "The players managed themselves really well during the week and managed themselves through the game well today "Since I came in [to Stoke] in January it has been a really tough period - I think one of the toughest of my career It has been really difficult because I’m the third permanent manager and fourth voice they have had This team should never have been anywhere near the bottom "And had everyone been fit and we’d been in earlier things wouldn’t have got down to this day but thankfully we have managed to come out the other side okay." 446Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We got the job done' - Eustacepublished at 15:56 British Summer Time 3 May15:56 BST 3 MayFT: Derby 0-0 Stoke Derby County head coach John Eustace told BBC Radio Derby: “The job’s done and that’s the most important thing “What a fantastic effort from everyone connected to with the football club The players have been outstanding every day in training "They have dedicated themselves to getting to this moment and I couldn’t be any more proud of them home and away have been outstanding as well During some really difficult moments no-one stopped believing and if you believe in what you are doing you always have a chance "And here we are with us still in the Championship.” 12116Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'We didn't find the solution today' - Le Brispublished at 15:51 British Summer Time 3 May15:51 BST 3 MayFT: Sunderland 0-1 QPR Sunderland will go into the play-offs following a run of five straight defeats Boss Regis Le Bris told BBC Radio Newcastle: "It's the end of the testing period we had some good periods but we were not able to create danger in the final third "At the end of the game with many players in the box and crosses it was really difficult to find a solution "It was the case today in another scenario where we have to run after something but unfortunately today we didn't find the solution." 1726Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'A dream come true' - Solomonpublished at 15:48 British Summer Time 3 May15:48 BST 3 MayFT: Plymouth 1-2 Leeds Leeds United winger Manor Solomon scored a 91st-minute winning goal to clinch the title for the Whites “I can’t put into words what I’m feeling right now It is a dream come true to score the winning goal and take this Championship "Throughout the season we’ve shown we deserve this trophy and to finish in the first spot “We all knew what was happening at Burnley and we knew we needed to score It paid off and the ball went into the net It will take me a few days to digest what happened today I’ve been focussed on this season; in two or three days we will talk and see what is happening I don’t know what the future holds but I can just say I love [Leeds].” 45836Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'90 points is an incredible achievement' - Wilderpublished at 15:44 British Summer Time 3 May15:44 BST 3 MayFT: Sheff Utd 1-1 Blackburn “We knew it was an awkward one with Blackburn Rovers having something to play for so their approach would be on the front foot “Second half we were really positive when we went behind I believe we deserved to win the game but the attitude “The overall thing for me is two points per game It’s an incredible achievement in my opinion with the challenges we’ve had to come The players have given everything for the shirt." he’s off to hospital so that’s the disappointing aspect of today but we can’t complain our injury record has been absolutely outstanding." 4742Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'I'm gutted for the boys' - Carrickpublished at 15:40 British Summer Time 3 May15:40 BST 3 MayFT: Coventry 2-0 Middlesbrough Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick told BBC Radio Tees: “It's a sickening feeling put in a really good performance for the most part and didn’t get what we wanted from the game “We didn’t manage to take our opportunities and in the end (On finishing 10th) “The fact we haven’t got in the play-offs is hurtful enough We’ve created our own expectations which is the positive The boys have shown what they can do and we feel the disappoint,ment we haven’t got that there is not really much difference to be honest.” you need to enable JavaScript in your browser Coventry have reached the play-offs for the second time in three seasons Coventry City manager Frank Lampard was delighted with how his team played in their play-off clinching win over Middlesbrough Jack Rudoni's two goals - one in each half - guaranteed the Sky Blues' spot in the top six and a two-legged semi-final against Sunderland was pleased at how his side responded to any tension created by successive defeats to Plymouth Argyle and Luton Town "It's great work from everyone involved," he told BBC CWR "It's tense – it's a long week going into the game We were brilliant on the counter-attack and showed great desire to defend our box." After enjoying the celebrations of today's victory focus shifts to the matches with the Black Cats with the first leg in Coventry on Friday night "I'm really delighted we've got there and now we've got to take a breath and understand that it's a step," said Lampard "Now we have to recover and go again for Sunderland." The ad-free version is ready for purchase on iOS mobile app today we couldn't find that page";var n=e.querySelector("h2");return n&&n.remove(),{staticContent:e,title:t}},d=function(e){var t=document.createElement("button");return t.innerText=e,t.classList.add("error-page-button"),t},f=function(e){var t=document.createElement("div");t.id="recirculation-404",t.classList.add("brand-hint-bg");var n="\n \n \n Tick here if you would like us to send you the author’s response Our free email updates are the best way to get headlines direct to your inbox Thank you for subscribing!We have more newsletters A teenager has been charged with violent disorder and possession of a bladed weapon Officers attended in reports of disorder at West Orchards Shopping Centre at lunchtime on Friday (2 May) they arrested a 15-year-old boy and confiscated a machete The teen is set to appear in court on Saturday (3 May) Police are urging witnesses who say what happened to come forward and help with the ongoing investigation Read more: YouTuber 'surrounded by gang of youths' when he visited Coventry A spokesman for Coventry Police said: "We've charged a teenager after being called to a disorder at West Orchards Shopping Centre, Coventry at around 12.15pm yesterday afternoon (2 May). A machete has been seized and no one has reported any injuries to us "A 15 year old boy was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon He has been charged with violent disorder and possession of a bladed article He is due to appear before Coventry Magistrates Court this morning (03/05/25) "Our investigations are continuing and we are appealing for witnesses Anyone with information should contact us on 101 or via Live Chat on our website quoting Log 2107 of 2 May." Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. who has led the council for almost 12 years The Lib Dems are the second largest party with 14 seats Conservatives had a strong majority before the election Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWho would Reform join forces with?published at 17:09 British Summer Time 2 May17:09 BST 2 MaySimon GilbertPolitical Reporter The Conservatives would be the obvious choice A joint Reform and Conservative administration would surely be the focus of widespread attention with the recurring incessant chatter around a possible future merging of the two parties The coming days and weeks of political manoeuvring will decide who leads the county But it could significant for the country - depending on the partnerships formed and their success or failure Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCounty set for a 'completely new broom' - Lib Demspublished at 16:57 British Summer Time 2 May16:57 BST 2 MayDan SambellBBC Radio CWR Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingStratford-upon-Avon is being painted yellowpublished at 16:48 British Summer Time 2 May16:48 BST 2 MaySimon GilbertPolitical Reporter While today has been a huge success for Reform in the north of the county the failure of the Conservative leader Izzi Seccombe to hold on to her seat in Stour & The Vale is more to do with the surge of the Liberal Democrats in Stratford-upon-Avon That’s a town now under Liberal Democrat control after the last district council election when they dethroned the Tories The Liberal Democrats also ousted the Tory MP at the General Election Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingReform happy to work with Tories at a local levelpublished at 16:38 British Summer Time 2 May16:38 BST 2 MayJames BovillBBC News chairman of the Warwick and Leamington branch of Reform has said his party is happy to work with the Conservatives on a local level He said meetings were already planned in terms of working with other parties and Reform was "happy to talk with anyone who thinks they can add value to what we offer" "Reform is a lot more of a centrist party than people expect," he said "They attract just as much from Labour heartlands as Conservative heartlands We’re now at a stage where we understand that Britain is broken Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingA number of coalition options over coming dayspublished at 16:28 British Summer Time 2 May16:28 BST 2 MaySimon GilbertPolitical Reporter It’s not impossible that the other parties could attempt to stifle Reform Tory and Green coalition would have the numbers to keep Reform out of power Perhaps Whitnash Residents Association could become the kingmaker in that scenario Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingFinal result declared with a Liberal Democrat winpublished at 16:13 British Summer Time 2 May16:13 BST 2 MayDan SambellBBC Radio CWR The final result has been declared in Stoneleigh The county council make up is now - nine seats for the Tories 23 Reform and one for the Whitnash Residents Association Election Results, external Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingHow are Labour performing in Warwickshire?published at 16:02 British Summer Time 2 May16:02 BST 2 MaySo far the Labour Party has won seats in: said she would look at provisions for social care We are now waiting to find out who the final four will be Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingReform gains see Tory seat go to Lib Demspublished at 15:18 British Summer Time 2 May15:18 BST 2 MayIn former council leader Izzi Seccombe's Stour & The Vale ward Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCouncil slips to no overall controlpublished at 15:10 British Summer Time 2 May15:10 BST 2 MaySimon GilbertPolitical Reporter No party will have overall control of Warwickshire County Council Exactly 29 seats are needed for an overall majority and no one party is now able to reach that number Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingReform will be biggest party in Warwickshirepublished at 14:57 British Summer Time 2 May14:57 BST 2 MaySimon GilbertPolitical Reporter The party has currently won 22 seats in the county A further seven are needed for a majority and overall control of the council Reform is likely to look to form a joint administration and create a partnership that will allow it to govern and push the changes members want through council votes Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWhat does the county council do?published at 14:48 British Summer Time 2 May14:48 BST 2 MaySo what does the county council do for you Other public services in the county council area are controlled by the more local district council Frank Lampard took over Coventry City with the club 17th in the Championship Coventry City boss Frank Lampard has called on his young players to "enjoy the challenge" ahead of their make-or-break clash against Championship play-off rivals Middlesbrough The Sky Blues sit sixth and occupy the final play-off place on goal difference ahead of Millwall with a win in front of an expected sell-out CBS Arena guaranteeing Lampard's men a spot in the post-season shake-up the 46-year-old spoke of the importance of his squad embracing any pressure they may be feeling ahead of a season-defining fixture with a defeat allowing Boro to leapfrog Coventry on the final day is expected to start once more at the heart of Coventry's defence with in-form attacking midfielder Jack Rudoni looking to add to an impressive tally of four goals and two assists from his last nine matches the freshness and the youth there can keep them free going into it," Lampard told BBC CWR "Enjoy the challenges [as] opposed to being overwhelmed by them Lampard took over as Coventry boss in late November following the dismissal of Mark Robins as the Sky Blues sat just two points above the Championship drop zone with many questioning the former Chelsea manager's appointment However, 15 wins from 28 league games later, including a run of nine victories in 10 matches between January and March, and Lampard's installation now looks to be a shrewd one with some touting him to be Championship manager of the season - an award which was won by Burnley's Scott Parker instead "That's the ride that we've been on We've made steps and now we've given ourselves an opportunity which is great but clearly the job isn't done yet," he added "There's no point in hiding what's on the game "It's in our hands but it's a really tough match so we just have to focus absolutely on the opponent and what we want to do but it is a knockout game in effect." Lampard also took time to praise the man who will be in the opposition dugout on Saturday a former West Ham and England international team-mate of his "I know him really well as a lad and he's always been one of the very good people in the game," Lampard said so [I'm] looking forward to seeing him and going against him." Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player