Relieved Sky Blues weather late storm
COVENTRY’s own FA Cup glory days may be a 30-year memory, but there was just a hint of that spirit about this frantic victory.
A first win in 16 matches had fans at the Ricoh Arena roaring and biting nails in equal measure, as the Gills played pinball in the home box after conceding a two-goal interval lead.
Quick-fire goals from Kwame Thomas and George Thomas keep Coventry’s League One survival hopes flickering whilst the Gills are being dragged closer to the mire.
Coventry manager Russell Slade said: “Our first-half performance was really strong. We got quality balls into their box, scored twice and could have had two more.
“In the second, they threw the kitchen sink at us. They scored early and got forward and had a go at us.
“We were under pressure; Lee Burge had to come off, he’s suffering with a bit of mild concussion.
“So many times we haven’t hung in there, but so pleased we managed to do that.
“Despite their pressure, we had three or four chances to rap the game up.
“The fans were terrific – they have stayed with us. We have another home game next Saturday and need another three points.
“George Thomas is having a nice run of games; it is great to see him grow in confidence and stature. Not only his energy, but he is contributing so that’s really pleasing.”
A superbly worked opening goal in the 16th minute gave Coventry heart. Callum Reilly’s excellent cross was nodded back across goal by Marcus Tudgay for Thomas to tap in.
Five minutes later and Thomas showed composure to take his chance, following in an Andy Rose shot.
Gills boss Ady Pennock made a double change at the interval and his side were transformed after skipper Max Ehmer pulled a goal back.
Former Everton striker Yakubu provided flashes of his skill in a 20minute cameo as Coventry eventually rode the storm.
Pennock said: “’I’m bitterly disappointed. We couldn’t defend to save our lives. I might just as well press an old tape recorder because it is the same old thing.
“We’ve given them two goals and that is what is disappointing.
“We were chalk and cheese in both halves. In the second, it just didn’t fall for us.
“I’ve just seen the replay and the referee gave a free-kick for a push by Jacko [Ryan Jackson], but the lad just fell over and that could have been the draw.”