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 but will Yamal build legacy to rival Messi 'Calamity keeper' or 'human wall' - which Donnarumma will Arsenal face Premier League reaction & Champions League race latest as Forest draw at Palace 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 Who has made Troy's Premier League team of the week Trailblazer Zhao set to take snooker to 'another level' in China Alexander-Arnold leaves as modern Liverpool great - but fans will feel hurt Zhao beats Williams in historic final - highlights VideoZhao beats Williams in historic final - highlights '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 Palmer's brilliance could be key moment in Chelsea's Champions League quest 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 Still number one & 'sparring' with Draper - return of Sinner 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 Two opposing views on football's transgender ban Copyright © 2025 BBC. 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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 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," 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 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 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. Full respect to that," Lampard said. Coventry host Sunderland in the first leg on May 9, with the second leg taking place on May 13. 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. Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited Company number: 1394141Registered office: Media House Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales VAT no 918 5617 01H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898) 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 they're good at things that I'm not so good at and all those things 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 So you're right in terms of how the fans have gone because of where we're at everyone's a bit “But then we've got on a roll and everyone's brought into it together 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 Hear the thoughts of the head coach below.. By WILL PICKWORTH Frank Lampard waited 18 months to decide his next move Bruised by a difficult 11-game interim stint with Chelsea at the end of the 2022-23 season, Lampard wanted to make sure his next role was right. ‘I've had a lot of challenges in my management career,’ he tells Mail Sport. ‘But I learned when you speak to a club, you want to know what their expectations are. ‘You want to delve into the squad, see what you think you can improve. What style of play do I want to bring? Have we got the players to do it? What does the owner want? And what is the feeling and the tradition of the club? ‘I weighed up all of those things and felt I could make an impact here,’ says Lampard, whose return to the dugout came with Coventry at the end of November. ‘Some other opportunities that came up I wasn't sure whether they were right for me, but this one felt right.’ His appointment at the Coventry Building Society Arena was derided in some quarters. Labelled a risky move after Mark Robins' departure, some claimed Lampard only got the job because of his name. Frank Lampard has had a huge impact at Coventry since becoming manager in November Lampard has taken the Sky Blues from two points off the relegation zone to sixth place  The legendary Chelsea midfielder, 47, has 15 wins in 28 league games since taking charge  But that view couldn’t be further from the truth and over the following six months, the legendary Chelsea midfielder has transformed Coventry's fortunes. The Sky Blues have risen from two points off the relegation zone to sixth thanks to 15 wins in 28 games. Their destiny is in their own hands to claim a play-off place ahead of a crunch final day clash against Middlesbrough, who are managed by Lampard's former West Ham and England team-mate Michael Carrick. Lampard has not only enhanced his reputation, but re-established himself as a promising young English manager, recognition he held after leading Derby to the play-off final, qualifying for the Champions League and FA Cup final despite a transfer embargo at Chelsea, before a rescue act at Everton. ‘I'm very pleased’, says Lampard, who oversaw Coventry's best run for 55 years with nine wins in 10 earlier this year. ‘At Christmas we maybe didn’t even imagine we would get here, so we’re happy in that sense. ‘We have a home game to try and get in the play-offs. That situation itself is a good achievement, but now we want to achieve that next step.’ Lampard is engaging and pleasant company and the fondness he has already developed for Coventry shines through. In a quirk of fate, the 47-year-old made his West Ham debut against the Sky Blues in 1996 and vividly remembers watching them win the FA Cup in 1987. During his time out of the game, he dabbled in media work and made sure to rest and spend time with his family. Lampard's previous role was a difficult 11-game interim spell with Chelsea back in 2023 Lampard used his 18-month break from the game to reflect and become a better coach He faced the tough ask of replacing Mark Robins, who earned legendary status at Coventry But the break was also used to become a better coach. ‘In a job, you're in the bubble,’ Lampard explains. ‘When you come out, you can take a wider view and reflect on things. ‘It was looking at what I could have done better? What did I do right? What can I improve with my next job?’ Lampard is speaking to Mail Sport on behalf of Sky Bet’s Every Minute Matters campaign in partnership with the British Heart Foundation (BHF). The campaign aims to raise £3million for the BHF and is hoping to get 270,000 people to learn CPR. 235,000 are already on board. ‘It's an amazing cause and felt quite close to me,’ Lampard says. ‘I've had some history of heart conditions in my family and you hear stories of younger people having these sudden cardiac arrests so this campaign struck a chord with me. ‘It's a pivotal thing and I’m really pleased to be part of it.’ Upon his arrival at Coventry, Lampard faced the challenge of replacing a club legend in Robins, whose sacking was controversial - and he needed to instill confidence into a side teetering with relegation trouble. Joined by trusted assistants Joe Edwards and Chris Jones, he ignored the outside noise and focused on quick-time improvements and clarity. Lampard was speaking to Mail Sport on behalf of Sky Bet's Every Minute Matters campaign Lampard initially focused on quick time improvements and restoring confidence to his squad He has galvanised and united Coventry's fanbase and attendances are up at the CBS Arena Lampard’s experiences at Everton helped him to inspire Coventry’s squad and he initially prioritised improving their defensive record. From there, more detailed plans were shared and he has leant heavily on video analysis during his tenure. Lampard’s tactical flexibility has seen Coventry switch between a back three and a back four, while ambitious owner Doug King showed support via the addition of Swansea captain Matt Grimes in January. Several players have thrived, including Jack Rudoni, a box-crashing midfielder likened to Lampard after contributing seven goals and 12 assists. ‘We never deviate from the basic principles we have with the team,’ he adds. ‘The players have been pretty good with that so I'm pleased with how they've responded. ‘There's been some really good individual stories of players improving too which is one of the best pleasures of this job.’ Lampard did face a major issue upon his arrival that he needed to address though. ‘We felt physically we could be better,’ he says. ‘Our numbers were pretty average. A high intensity style works in this league. We have to be one of the top teams and in certain parameters we now are.’ Several players have thrived, including Jack Rudoni (right), a box-crashing midfielder likened to Lampard after contributing seven goals and 12 assists in the Championship this season Lampard did feel that Coventry's needed to be better physically after he took on the job Lampard's fist pumps after crucial victories have become a memorable part of his tenure Lampard has similarly galvanised and united a club that - while enduring some incredible highs under Robins - has also endured some difficult times over the past 12 years, including being made homeless twice. Average crowds have risen by more than 2,000 this season and Lampard's fist pumps after crucial victories have become iconic. In fact, their 2-1 victory over West Brom on Good Friday was watched by 31,167, a record for a league game at the CBS Arena. ‘The fans have really bought into it,’ Lampard says. 'The atmosphere is incredible. The players have shown passion and quality - things fans want to see. ‘We need one more big push this Saturday. We know we'll have big support behind us so we want to get a result for them.’ That big push comes in what could be a topsy-turvy final day one point adrift of fifth place Bristol City Blackburn and Middlesbrough could overtake Lampard’s side if they slip up A tough encounter awaits and the memories of Coventry’s play-off semi-final victory over Boro in 2023 still linger The tie is a play-off for the play-offs and Lampard’s message is simple ‘We deserve to have got to where we've got to now,’ he says 'What we may be able to achieve should be a real carrot for us to try and grab we know we can compete with anyone in this league but we now need to continue it under intense pressure.’ Sky Bet and the EFL recently joined forces in support of the British Heart Foundation to host the Sky Bet EFL Every Minute Matters Relay – a gruelling 4000km challenge ran or cycled to every one of the 72 Sky Bet EFL Clubs in just 28 days and inspired over 20,000 to begin learning CPR To learn CPR in just 15 minutes with the BHF’s free, online tool, search ‘RevivR’ The comments below have not been moderated By posting your comment you agree to our house rules Do you want to automatically post your MailOnline comments to your Facebook Timeline Your comment will be posted to MailOnline as usual We will automatically post your comment and a link to the news story to your Facebook timeline at the same time it is posted on MailOnline To do this we will link your MailOnline account with your Facebook account We’ll ask you to confirm this for your first post to Facebook You can choose on each post whether you would like it to be posted to Facebook. 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Part of the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media Group 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 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." Home   >   News   >   Match Report: Coventry 14-21 Cornish Pirates Coventry recovered from 14-0 down to draw level thanks to tries from Ryan Hutler and Dan Green either side of half-time but a converted try from Jack Forsythe proved to be the difference as the hosts were unable to turn pressure into points The visitors almost struck inside the opening eight minutes as Bruce Houston and Chester Ribbons linked up superbly before releasing Arthur Relton only for the final pass to be ruled to have gone forward Relton did not have to wait too long before he was celebrating Pirates’ opening try Matt McNab bounced off a tackle on the left-hand side before feeding his fellow winger Relton who eased over Coventry had an opportunity to hit straight back with a lineout deep inside Cornish Pirates’ half but the throw went awry The home side were doing well to disrupt the Pirates lineout with Tom Ball standing out ill-discipline from Coventry was gifting Pirates possession and offering Houston with opportunities to go for goal The fly-half missed two kicks from the tee including one taken from inside his own half but his decision to turn down a third chance at goal and set up a lineout paid dividends on 35 minutes the Pirates forwards powered over with replacement hooker Matt Pritchard touching down at the back of the maul Coventry responded brilliantly three minutes before the end of the first half Tommy Mathews chipped the ball through for Hutler who claimed his tenth try of the season Coventry then drew level at the start of the second period when after a brilliant kick from Logan Trotter the visitors were put under pressure and stripped on their five-metre line before Oli Morris set up Green who smashed through the Pirates defence to score a try that Mathews improved Hunter thought he was clear for a try only for play to be brought back for a knock on after a huge tackle from Morris in midfield Pirates responded by camping inside Coventry’s half for six minutes and they were eventually rewarded the Pirates forward poured over the line with the impressive Forysthe scoring a try that Houston converted Coventry threatened to score on multiple occasions mounting heavy pressure in Pirates’ 22 but opportunities kept passing them by The hosts had all the possession and territory but their attacks came to no avail and despite the Coventry fans roaring their team on until the end the Pirates defence came out on top Jimmy Martin (Will Lane 72); Tommy Mathews Sam Maunder (Josh Barton 64); Toby Trinder (Jevaughn Warren 72) Eliot Salt (Tye Raymont 59); Dan Green (Bennett 59) Cornish Pirates: Will Trewin (Iwan Price-Thomas 66 Dan Hiscocks (Will Becconsall 50); Billy Young (Jack Andrew 68) Copyright © Coventry Rugby 2025. Privacy Policy This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings Privacy Overview Strictly Necessary Cookies 3rd Party Cookies Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance Privacy OverviewThis website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings we will not be able to save your preferences This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences 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 A man has been named by police after he was charged over a knife incident in Coventry this week. Officers rushed to busy St James Lane amid school run chaos in Willenhall on Thursday morning As previously reported, while there they apprehended a 30-year-old man who was seen with a weapon near a primary school Police say he since been charged for offences and will now stay in custody before he appears in magistrates court in Wolverhampton A spokesman for Coventry Police said: "A man has been charged with possessing knives and making threats in a public place in Willenhall "It comes after a suspect was arrested following reports of a man with a knife in St James Lane at around 8.50am has been charged with three counts of possessing of a knife and one of threatening a person with a blade "After being held in police cells overnight he appeared at Coventry Magistrates Court yesterday At the hearing he was further remanded in custody to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court on 9 May." Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Frank Lampard will draw on his Chelsea experience as he aims to steer Coventry into the play-offs against Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough on Saturday. 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 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. 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. Who will qualify for the Champions League as Forest draw at Palace Is the risk that Mercedes took with Antonelli paying off Alexander-Arnold leaves as modern Liverpool great - but fans will feel hurt 'Scheffler and DeChambeau wins further raise US PGA excitement levels' Solskjaer on Besiktas 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." Victory for the Sky Blues would ensure they make the top six while for Boro even a win might not be enough for them to make it They'd also need to rely on Millwall and Blackburn Rovers not taking all three points in their respective matches Though with both those sides playing top three opponents the hope is firmly alive for Middlesbrough.. that's if they can put in a better performance than the one that saw them lose 3-0 to Coventry in the reverse fixture back in November Coventry City have won four of their last five league games against Middlesbrough (D1) Related topicsMiddlesbroughCoventry CityFootballTop storiesHis stats are better Coventry venues have spoken out after last month's UK Supreme Court ruling which sought to set out the definition of the terms relating to gender The ruling deemed the legal definition of a woman was based on biological sex - which may impact members of the trans community in accessing certain spaces and services But several of Coventry's leading venues have responded eager to show their support for all who visit and The Tin have all taken to social media this week to share their views and approach to the new ruling The Yard said: "Following the Supreme Court’s recent ruling we’ve decided to do away with gender altogether We’re making sure everyone in our community feels welcome both of our bathrooms are now gender neutral Read more: YouTuber 'surrounded by gang of youths' when he visited Coventry "But if you’d prefer the privacy or space of our accessible toilet please just ask one of our team at the bar for the key to the private accessible bathroom posted: "The Tin always has and always will be an open and inclusive environment for anyone that steps through our doors or comes to events we host elsewhere "We are committed to doing all we can to ensure that marginalised groups feel included "We believe that having a diverse team and programme and welcoming all audiences sparks conversation Diverse people bring diverse talent which allows our audiences opportunities to learn about and embrace differences "A safe space where people from different backgrounds can come together fosters community cohesion and it makes what we do more interesting "The Supreme Court's confusing and contradictory ruling on April 16 will not change how we treat people or how we expect people to be treated in our spaces or at our events "To find out more or to discuss access and inclusion at the Tin then DM us and we'll send you the contact details for our Accessibility and Equity Coordinator." and welcoming environment for everyone who visits Celebrating and respecting diversity is a core value that guides all of our decisions We stand firmly against the marginalisation of any members of our community."In light of the UK Supreme Court ruling we stand alongside our friends at The Tin Music and Arts in affirming that this decision will not change how we treat people nor how we expect people to be treated in our spaces and at our events."Our team of staff are always on hand to assist and help ensure our spaces remain respectful and welcoming for all." SearchHave your say - Join our Online Community and help make a difference penalty shootouts and exciting water polo was the order of the day as the GoCardless Swim England National Age Group Championship Finals 2025 (U17/U19) got underway in Coventry Places in each of the medal matches were decided on Saturday at the Alan Higgs Centre after eight excellent semi-finals took centre stage in the Midlands Watford’s nail-biting penalty shootout victory over Exeter was the highlight of the day as they secured a spot alongside City of Manchester in the U17 Open final That was the first of two finals places for the North West with their U17s looking to emulate the Open U19 team tomorrow after they defeated Watford in the U19 semi-final West London Penguin await Manchester in the U19 Open final whilst Penguin’s U17 Female side will take on City of Liverpool for gold City of Sheffield and City of Bristol were also victorious in Coventry and they’ll contest the U19 Female final on Sunday afternoon You can find out more about each of the matches below with the full match sheets available on the live scoreboard page We start with Watford’s tense penalty shootout win defeating an Exeter side that took them to their limit The two teams played out a back-and-forth contest Exeter edging both the first and final quarters with Watford taking control in the middle of the match The pair were never split by more than three goals throughout with the Londoners overcoming their 10-7 deficit part way through the third to lead going into the final quarter Captain Gethin Dorrington and Ilija Crompton’s each scored their fourth goal of the game to take Watford into a narrow 14-13 lead but a nervy end to the match allowed Toby C-Y grabbed the equaliser to take the game to penalties The forwards were in fine form in the shootout with each of the initial 10 shots hitting the back of the net That took us to sudden death where the unfortunate Bernat Amado saw the second of his penalties saved Rishi Patel then stepped up and made no mistake as he fired his effort into the corner to book his team a place in tomorrow’s gold medal match They’ll be facing a City of Manchester team that were dominant in their victory over Worthing The 2024 bronze medallists ran out 20-8 winners to guarantee themselves a better finish than they had 12 months ago in an exceptional display Andrew Stephenson and Yaroslav Shemanov top scored with five goals each whilst Carter McMillan and Otis Mckelvey grabbed four for themselves to put them right in the hunt for the top scorer award scoring the final two goals of the match through Piaras Donnelly and Sammy Smith to give them a confidence boost ahead of tomorrow’s bronze medal match City of Manchester scorers: Andres Stephenson (5) City of Liverpool edged out Worthing in a thriller to kick off the GoCardless Swim England Water Polo National Age Group Championships Worthing stormed into a 3-0 lead early on with Florrie Cooper’s double putting the West Sussex side into a dominant position after the opening period Liverpool fought back to level the game at half time before moving into a 7-5 ahead of the final eight minutes The two sides traded goals in the final period with Worthing’s Elsie Graves’ goalscoring exploits helping keep her team in the match-up including the final goal of the game with just 42 seconds left on the clock but Liverpool held on with captain Abbie Evans Tilly McGeehan and Jenna Binks each grabbing a brace The Merseysiders will meet West London Penguin in the final as Manpreet Gill put in a stunning display to lead her team to victory She topped scored with six of her sides 13 goals as they defeated a tough Exeter side 13-6 Penguin asserted their dominance in the second to move into an 8-3 lead at half time limiting Exeter to a number of long-range efforts and were on form at the other end to extend their advantage Kate James’ hat trick and Poppy Liu’s double showed some of the quality in the Exeter side but Penguin went on to take a well-deserved place in tomorrow’s final where they’ll look to avenge last year’s defeat City of Sheffield were in fine form as they look to go one better in Coventry in 2025 The South Yorkshire club put in a comprehensive display to defeat defending champions Cheltenham at the Alan Higgs Centre Alice Berell and Georgia Coles grabbed six with Ruby Taylor scoring seven as they ran out 26-6 winners on the day Their performance was one of the standouts of the day whilst Cheltenham’s young team will look to bounce back as they look to leave with a medal on Sunday City of Bristol held off a late Liverpool fight back to secure a date with Sheffield in tomorrow’s final The South West team looked comfortable for the most part Liverpool gave them something to think about late on scoring five in the final period as they started to close the gap Bristol held their nerve to not let the Merseysiders back in it with late goals from Geogia Haines and Harriet Bates getting them over the line with a solid 15-10 win Haines top scored in the match with five whilst Josephine Lamont Tucker took her hat trick expertly as they sent them on their way to the gold medal match City of Sheffield scorers: Georgie Coles (6) City of Liverpool 10 – 15 City of Bristol (0-3 Bristol scorers: Josephine Lamont Tuckett (3) will battle West London Penguin in tomorrow’s open U19 final Both clubs had to wait until the end of the day for their tournament to get underway but they each edged out Cheltenham and Watford in two competitive semi-finals Penguin were up first where a goal-scoring clinic from Sidney Gruber saw them see off Cheltenham in a 12-9 win including four in the second quarter alone to put the game just out of reach of the Gloucestershire outfit His first half goals alongside a hat trick from Michelangelo Antonelli and a brace from Shai Saltman meant they were always in control despite having to withstand some heavy second half pressure Cheltenham played well in defeat with Alfie Clarke and GB U18 star Will Bamborough leading their scoring charts They’ll face Watford in what is set to be a close match for bronze after they lost out 13-6 to Manchester Manchester were able to take control of the match in the third after a close first half A 5-1 third period score changed the game and allowed them to manage the game well late on to seal the victory – partly thanks to a hat trick each from Oliver Salimbeni and George Billington To find all the reports from finals day, make sure to follow Swim England’s social media channels and visit the dedicated news page here Images – Will Johnston Photography West London Penguin 12 – 9 Cheltenham (3-1, 5-1, 2-5, 2-2) West London Penguin scorers: Shai Saltman (2), Sidney Gruber (7), Michelangelo Antonelli (3). Cheltenham scorers: Alfie Clarke (4), Noah Knights-Hume, Dan O’Connor, Will Bamborough (3). City of Manchester 13 – 6 Watford (2-1, 2-1, 5-1, 4-3) City of Manchester scorers: George Billington (3), Freddie Dean (2), Oliver Salimbeni (3), Charlie Chadwick, Andrew Stephenson, Yaroslav Shemanov (2), Lucas Roxburgh Watford scorers: Ed Carpenter, Dusan Crompton, Bertie Dix, Niko Obradovic, Rishi Patel, Michael Barett. Middlesbrough end in 10th - their lowest finish since 2021 Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick says he is "gutted" after seeing his team fail to make the play-offs Needing a win to have any chance of reaching the top six, Boro lost 2-0 at Coventry City I'm gutted for the boys," he told BBC Radio Tees "We didn't manage to take our opportunities so in the end The boys have shown what they can do and we feel the disappointment we haven't got that." The result caps a poor end to the season in which Carrick's side won only one of their last six games and ended 10th Rayogreatest hitscoventry warwickshirenewsCoventry secure play-off place with win against MiddlesbroughThe victory is part of a huge turnaround in form since Frank Lampard took over as manager Coventry sealed their place in the Championship play-offs thanks to a hard-earned 2-0 victory against Middlesbrough Jack Rudoni scored both goals for the hosts as Frank Lampard's side booked a play-off double-header against Sunderland have ultimately paid the price for a hugely inconsistent second half of the season as they blew their chance of sneaking back into the top six The home fans were almost rejoicing after just four minutes only for Ellis Simms to lash an effort inches wide from just eight yards out The tone was being set in such a vital fixture for both teams with City in control early on as Ben Sheaf then went close as he fizzed a shot off target from inside the Boro box Michael Carrick's men had looked the more nervous of the sides in the early stages though they finally gained a foothold and Morgan Whittaker tested City keeper Ben Wilson while Boro created the next opening just before the half-hour mark Tommy Conway charged menacingly towards the heart of the Coventry defence and Finn Azaz's strike was palmed onto the post by Wilson it was City who made the breakthrough in the 44th minute Tatsuhiro Sakamoto floated over a cross for Rudoni who superbly glanced a header into the corner past the despairing dive of keeper Mark Travers Boro created the first chance of the second half but his low snapshot was well saved by Wilson The Coventry stopper was at his brilliant best minutes later This time Whittaker flicked the ball into the path of Azaz but Wilson saved superbly from close range Rudoni went close when denied by a super Travers save with 20 minutes left The woodwork then saved Boro when City substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante thumped a strike against the post The same happened at the other end soon after when Whittaker also cracked a shot against the post The Sky Blues finally sealed Boro's fate with two minutes left when Rudoni coolly converted a measured cross from Thomas-Asante Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app. Mon 18 Nov 2024 15.49GET £20 IN FREE BETS WHEN YOU BET £518+ New Customers only Certain deposit methods & bet types excl Min first £5 bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 to get 4 x £5 free bets Free bet available to use on selected sportsbook markets only Coventry City are on the lookout for a new manager following the shock dismissal of Mark Robins in the aftermath of the Sky Blues 2-1 home defeat to Derby County on 6th November Robins is regarded by many Coventry fans as a club legend having managed the club over two separate spells overseeing the club’s rise from League Two to the Championship At the weekend, Rhys Carr took charge of Coventry’s 2-2 draw with league leaders Sunderland - he has odds of 33/1 (was 50/1) to take the job on a permanent basis Coventry City has made the difficult decision to terminate the contract of Mark Robins as manager. We thank Mark for all his achievements with us and wish him the best for the future. #PUSB Sunderland46211312+14765Coventry4620917+6696Bristol City46171712+468Last updated 06/05/2025Frank Lampard’s Odds: 2/7Could Frank Lampard be about to make a return to management with Coventry The 46-year-old was most recently Chelsea’s caretaker manager for 11 games in the 2022/23 season while his previous spell before that between July 2019 and January 2021 saw the Blues win just 44 of his 84 games in charge Lampard also managed Everton from January 2022 and January 2023 helping to keep the Toffees up in his first half a season in charge before regressing finishing with a 27% win percentage at Goodison Park he had been manager of Derby County for one season reaching the Championship play-off final in 2018/19 the Rams were beaten by Aston Villa and Lampard left Pride Park to join Chelsea Frank Lampard @ 2/7ADD TO BETSLIPRobbie Keane’s Odds: 10/3Ex-Coventry City forward Robbie Keane has been talked about as a potential successor to Robins Keane was most recently manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv between June 2023 and June 2024 The 44-year-old managed to win 41 and draw nine of his 56 matches equating to a 73% win percentage - resulting in the Israeli outfit winning the Israeli Premier League and the Toto Cup AI Keane lead Maccabi Tel Aviv to the Round of 16 they were beaten 7-5 on aggregate by eventual champions Olympiakos Keane had served as assistant manager of the Republic of Ireland and Middlesbrough Keane had also been part of Sam Allardyce’s coaching staff at Leeds towards the end of the 2022/23 season Robbie Keane @ 10/3ADD TO BETSLIPRuud van Nistelrooy's Odds: 11/1 (WAS 40/1)Ruud van Nistelrooy's odds have been slashed from 40/1 to 11/1 to become Coventry City's next permanent manager The Dutchman recently departed Manchester United following a brief spell as assistant manager before becoming Interim manager on a short term basis after Erik ten Hag's sacking - leaving the club with a record of three wins and one draw from four games in charge van Nistelrooy was PSV's manager for the 2023/23 campaign where he managed a second-place finish while winning the Johan Cruyff Shield 5-3 against Ajax while also defeating the Amsterdam club in the final of the KNVB Cup on penalties after a 1-1 draw Ruud van Nistelrooy @ 11/1ADD TO BETSLIPLee Carsley’s Odds: 28/1Interim England manager Lee Carsley is also in contention for the job at Coventry The 50-year-old actually took charge of 11 games on a caretaker basis for Coventry between August and September 2012 as well as between February 2013 and March 2013 Carsley made 77 appearances for the Sky Blues as a player and has shown some promising signs in his managerial career having won the Under 21s European Championship with England in 2023 while playing a progressive style of play in this season’s Nations League The Chairboys sit top of League One with 32 points from 14 matches in what will be Bloomfield’s second full season in charge having replaced Gareth Ainsworth in February 2023 The 40-year-old has taken charge of 94 matches leading to an impressive 47.9% win percentage Matt Bloomfield @ 33/1ADD TO BETSLIPLuis Boa Morte's Odds: 40/1Luis Boa Morte's Odds have been slashed for the vacancy at Coventry City The 47-year-old had been serving as first team coach with former club Fulham from July 2021 until the end of the 2023/24 Premier League season has since taken up the Guinea-Bissau managerial role; So far Boa Morte has won one of his first six matches in charge while drawing three and losing two Boa Morte had been Assistant Manager at the likes of Everton and Maccabi Haifa Luis Boa Morte @ 40/1ADD TO BETSLIPSteven Schumacher’s Odds: 40/1Ex-Stoke City manager Steven Schumacher has reportedly been linked with the vacancy at the Coventry Building Society Arena Schumacher managed the Potters just 32 times before leaving his role on 16th September in what was regarded as a surprise decision he managed to win 13 and draw 6 of those 32 matches in charge Schumacher had a successful time as manager of Plymouth Argyle as he managed to earn promotion with the Mariners from League One in the 2022/23 season and won 57 of his 108 matches at the helm of the Home Park club Nicky Butt's Odds: 40/1 Alan Sheehan's Odds: 40/1 David Wagner's Odds: 40/1 Dean Smith's Odds: 40/1 Gary Rowett's Odds: 40/1 Liam Rosenior's Odds: 40/1 Ruben Selles Odds: 40/1 Despite Ruud van Nistelrooy's odds being slashed from 40/1 to as low as 7/4 - they now stand at a lofty 11/1 Rumours have suggested that Coventry City's owner Doug King prefers Frank Lampard due to his connections with the Redknapp family while board members had supposedly opted for van Nistelrooy There could still be twists and turns when it comes to who will be the next manager of Coventry City 🚨Ruud van Nistelrooy and Frank Lampard could be set to battle it out for the Coventry City jobThe Championship outfit are keen on speaking to them both as they step up their search for a new head coach...⬇️https://t.co/ToUOBvHbYk pic.twitter.com/g9pAcXebo0 Throughout the 2024/25 season you can find our Prediction content here with expert analysis via our team at FootyAccumulators. On top of this, we provide free exclusive betting tips and markets that run throughout the week that could also be of interest: The Betting Hub app is the ultimate football betting companion app. It is your one-stop-shop and ONLY place for the latest and best exclusive boosts & offers from the premium operators in the UK. Smart Acca Football Accumulator Tips For Monday: National League Offering Great ValueHere we take a look at Smart Acca Tips for Monday's (05/05/2025) action with this one being a decent shot at 13/1 and chosen by our Smart Acca tool via the Free Betting Hub App Facilitating the UK's largest online betting community we provide our own tips on popular betting markets as well as offering the latest bets and offers Gamble Aware aims to promote responsibility in gambling They provide information to help you make informed decisions about your gambling The race for the Football League Championship’s final two playoff spots went down to the wire with one goal at any of three games capable of changing the picture altogether Sheffield United and Sunderland had sealed third- and fourth-place on the table prior to kickoff but the former had a huge role to play in the other two spots as they faced Blackburn Rovers at Bramall Lane MORE — Final Championship table The day began with Bristol Rovers and Coventry City in charge of their destinies and Jack Rudoni’s goal before halftime boosted Coventry into fifth place with a 1-0 lead over Middlesbrough And it got more tense when Bristol City went down 2-0 at home to Preston North End opening the door for Blackburn Rovers and Millwall in seventh and eighth But Ross McCrorie scored twice and Bristol took a tenuous sixth-place in the second halves putting them two points clear of Blackburn and Millwall Blackburn had scored after halftime through Yuki Ohashi but Anel Ahmedhodzic found a quick equalizer to keep the Rovers out of a playoff spot for the moment as Millwall’s early lead at already-promoted Burnley sank into a 2-1 deficit at Turf Moor Coventry essentially sealed their place when Rudoni made it a brace in the 88th minute leaving it between Bristol City and Blackburn Rovers unless there was a major swing at Burnley vs Millwall The Clarets scored again late to doom Millwall to eighth after a 3-1 decision Eight minutes stoppage were signaled at Bramall Lane for Blackburn to find a winner Bristol City would have six minutes to keep their point or find two more against Preston and Blackburn fans were left hoping their side could defend a corner counter and find a winner within 2-3 minutes Sheffield United (3) vs Bristol City (6)Sunderland (4) vs Coventry City (5) When: May 8-9 (first legs), May 12-13 (second legs)Stream online: Paramount+ The first legs of the semifinals will be held on May 8 and 9 with the return legs being played on May 12 and May 13 The “richest game in sports” — the Championship playoff final — will be held on Saturday A Division of NBCUniversal DISCLAIMER: This site and the products offered are for entertainment purposes only and there is no gambling offered on this site This service is intended for adult audiences No guarantees are made for any specific outcome If you or someone you know has a gambling problem The arrest was the result of a motor vehicle stop on Weaver Street in West Warwick Homero was transported to the Hope Valley Barracks where he was processed arraigned by a Justice of the Peace and released with a future Third Division District Court date Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com Contact him at editor@warwickpost.com with tips Warwick Post is an online news and information source covering Warwick It also includes a Directory that allows local businesses to promote their products and services If you have a news tip, questions, concerns or want to advertise, you’ll need to Contact Warwickpost.com Warwickpost.com does not collect personally identifying data. 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Read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the air speed velocity of an unladen swallow Please select what you would like included for printing: Copy the text below and then paste that into your favorite email application 2025 surrounded by his wife and two daughters.  Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM Saturday Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors 1952 to Joanne Underwood Coventry and Neil Ray Coventry Texas graduating from Perryton High School He attended West Texas State University where he met and married Mary Jane Cooper He graduated from West Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree and earned a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington Jim's career included working at The Department of Human Services as Program Director and a private practice in psychotherapy Jim was a member of St Andrew's Episcopal Church where he served as a Sunday school teacher He enjoyed knowing and helping many people throughout his career.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents Neil and Joanne Coventry and his in-laws Christene and Stewart Cooper two daughters Lora Taylor (Drake); Emily Hughes (Aaron) Survivors also include his sister Julie Kile He is also survived by nieces Kristi Gray (Brandon) Alicia McHenry(Raphael) Katie Boatler(Tyson) and nephews Mike Kile (Laura) and Casey Cooper as well as 10 great nieces and nephews and many cousins Our family would like to express our sincerest gratitude to Dr Alan Keister Dr Praveen Tumula and Dr Brian Berryman and their staff for providing compassionate medical care during Jim's illness In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to St Andrew's Episcopal Church 1601 S Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors “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 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."