Victorious boss pays respectful tribute to City
LUTON Town boss Rob Edwards hailed Mark Robins for the ‘incredible job’ he had done with Coventry City after the Championship playoff final.
While there was joy for the Hatters in returning to English football’s top flight for the first time in 31 years, the Sky Blues endured the heartbreak of a penalty shoot-out.
It was still a memorable season for Coventry, who will now look to regroup and mount another challenge next season.
Following the match, Edwards took time out of his celebrations to send his commiserations to Coventry and to praise the club and manager for their achievements over the last few years.
“I’ve got to say, a huge credit to Mark Robins and Coventry and commiserations,” he said.
“I know how much they’ve been through and what he’s done and the job he’s done has been incredible.
“It was so tight, not being able to separate us over three games, all the way to penalties, the last spotkick. He deserves so much credit, the job he’s done.
“I’ve said it before I couldn’t have done that and I know they’ll be back stronger.
“They’re an unbelievable fan base, and amazing club.
“I know today, alright it was our day, which is great, but I do feel for them as well.”
The game at Wembley Stadium brought together two clubs who were promoted from League Two together in 2018.
Luton had finished third in the Championship this season, with the Sky Blues fifth, while both regular season clashes had ended in draws.
Luton striker Carlton Morris sent his commiserations to “brilliant” City and expressed his sympathy to Fankaty Dabo after his shoot-out miss.
“I want to send condolences to Cov, they’ve been brilliant all year and especially for Dabo to miss the last penalty,” he told Sky Sports. “My condolences to him. I hope he doesn’t take it to heart. But it (to win) is an incredible feeling.”
Meanwhile, Hatters’ Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu became the first player to rise from non-league to the Premier League with the same club. He initially joined the then Conference side from West Ham in November 2013 and made his debut against Staines Town in the FA Trophy.
“I’ve completed football!” he joked. “It’s been a journey, through the highs and lows but you’ve got to believe in yourself.
“Here I am, a Premier League player.”