ivanvdm15
International Cricketer
interesting update, good work also
KUTGW :happy
KUTGW :happy
Can A Mod Close This Thread, I Am Starting A New Story
- Thread starter covlad-99
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KYLE COMPLETES MOVE TO SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY
Kevin Kyle today completed his £250K move to Sheffield Wednesday. Kyle said he was 'relieved' to get away as he wasn't getting many opportunities at his old club, Coventry City. The move will see Kyle at Hillsbrough for 3 and a half years.
SIMPSON LINKS UP WITH SQUAD
Manchester United's on loan right back Danny Simpson, today linked up with the squad ahead of tehir game with Barnet. He meets his team mates for the first time since his loan switch to teh Sky Blues, and will go straight into the squad to face Barnet.
TOUGH SCRAPS KEOGH DEAL AFTER MEDICAL
Coventry manager Craig Tough has scrapped his bid to sign Wolves midfielder Andy Keogh, after he failed his medical at the Ricoh Arena yesterday. Apparently, Keogh is set to miss 8 weeks of football with a calf tear. Tough backed out the deal because he needed a midfielder quicker. People on the inside have said Tough is looking at a deal with AEK Athens for former Brazil World Cup Winner, Rivaldo.
TOUGH MAKES OFFER FOR RIVALDO
Craig Tough has made a £450K offer for Brazil star Rivaldo. Rivaldo, 35, has been seen at the Ricoh Arena, and the offer has since been accepted. Fans have called the move 'sensational' and they feel its fantastic to have a player of Rivaldo's calibre in their team. Rivaldo's deal won't be signed in time for him to ave his debut against Barnet, but hopes to play soon. Rivaldo will be available as soon as he agrees personal terms with Coventry.
Last edited:
Jaztheman
Chairman of Selectors
Rivaldo? 
You gotta love the man. Good luck in your next match.
You gotta love the man. Good luck in your next match.
19/7/07
In today's game, we played League Two side Barnet. Before the game I hoping we could again, win by about 3 or 4 goals like last week against Auchinlek, but again, the main thing was to get the player's fitness levels up for the start of the league season. I thought we were going to win it comfortably.
Now, I will update you of the transfer news this week so far. Kevin Kyle has completed his move to Sheffield Wednesday, so Good Luck to him, and our young loan signing, Danny Simpson linked up yesterday, and he plays today. Many of you already know about Rivaldo, but he doesn;t play today as he hasn't officially signed, however, he is one pen stroke away, but after completing a medical, he has gone back to Athens and hopes to move to England soon.
In today's game, I think the fans who have come to Underwood Park to watch us play would have liked to see us play as well as we did against Auchinlek. Fast, sexy etcetera. And I told the lads, this is what I expected from the players today.
Now to the team news. My starting XI is pretty much the same as against Auchinlek, with two or three changes. Three players were left out, young Kevin Thornton, as he still has ankle ligament damage, 18 year old Donovan Simmonds who also still has ankle ligament damage, and Danny Ireland, as I decided to bring Dimi (Konstantopoulos) in instead of him, although Danny worked hard for his clean sheet and I was very impressed with his work ethic and he definately has a very big future here at Coventry. I brought in Danny Simpson, our new loan signing in at right back for him to display his talents to me. Also, Ellery Cairo drops to teh bench, while Mifsud plays on teh right with Leon Best coming in to partner Adebola up front.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
Simpson---de Zeeuw(c)---Ward---Borrowdale
Mifsud-------S.Hughes-------M.Doyle----Tabb
--------------------Best--------Adebola
Subs (12): Cairo, Davis, Hawkins, Osbourne, Kyle, Gray, R.Simpson, Konstantopoulos (K), Turner, McKenzie, Hall, M.Hughes.
Me and the lads arrived at Barnet's's ground, Underwood Park. We got out of the bus and walked into the Club's changing rooms facilities. I have to say, it was very well kept. Someone obviously came in often to spruce the place up. We sat down,and while the lads got ready for the game, I said what was expected, and the usual talk, about tactics, players etc. And then we got outside, did a quick 10 minute warm up, and started the game.
This time, we got off to a great start, straight from kick off, captain Arjan de Zeeuw put a long ball forward in which Leon Best controlled, and shot from 18 yards, but his shot was tipped over for a corner. I was shouting at teh boys to maintain their concentration . On 19 mins, a Barnet free kick was cleared to Dele Adebola on the left wing, who crossed to 5ft5 Michael Mifsud who finished with an expertly controlled volley. 1-0.
AT half an hour, without Barnet having a single chance to threaten the Coventry goal, Jay Tabb put an expert ball over the defence whcih found Leon Best, who's shot went inches wide. On 37 minutes, a ball through the defence found Michael Mifsud, coming in off teh wing, and the Maltese striker didn't miss. 2-0. Mifsud on a hattrick. On 39 mins, a Jay Tabb corner found the head of midfielder Stephen Hughes who converted to get Coventry's 2nd goal in 3 mins. 3-0. On 42 mins, a harmless goal kick from Barnet resulted in an ariel challenge, in which Gary Borrowdale of Coventry was red carded for an elbow in the face. Half Time came. I gave Borrowdale an earful and then I made some changes. Adebola cam off for Liam Davis, who went to left back, Robbie Simpson on for Jay Tabb who went on the left, Konstantopoulos (K) came on for Andy Marshall (K), Ben Turner came on for Arjan de Zeeuw, McNamee on for S.Hughes, who went to right back and pushed Danny Simpson to right wing and Mifsud to centre forward. And tehn I told teh lads what I wanted and off we went for the second half.
On 46 mins, a long throw from Liam Davis bounced in Barnet's area, came to Leon Best's feet who passed it to centre bac Elliott Ward on the edge of teh area in acres of space, but his shot was blazed over.
On 60 mins, Leon Best was fouled on teh edge of teh area by Barnet midfielder Ismail Yakubu. Danny and Robbie Simpson stood behind the ball, and Robbie passed it to Danny and Danny hit a venomous shot with the outside of his right boot, the keeper saved well but teh rebound fell to Leon Best, who obliged. 4-0. On 69 mins, Doyle smasehed a 60 yard clearance, which Mifsud latched on to, somehow, and ran full force towards the box, but his shot went a yard wide. On 70 mins, Barnet winger Jason Puncheon put a ball into striker Chris Porter, but Porter took one touch too many and lost the ball, one of the few chances Barnet had to score.Seconds later, Mifsud's blistering pace worked dividends again when he took on 2 Barnet players, and put a superb pass through t Leon Best, but the keeper tipped his shot round the post. On 74 mins, I made a few changes. Colin Hawkins came on for a staright swap with Elliott Ward, Julian Gray came on for Robbie Simpson, Leon McKenzie came on for Michael Mifsud, Isaac Osbourne for Michael Doyle and Danny SImpson's debut came to an end when he was replaced by Ellery Cairo. I was very happy with the work from Simpson. And the match was underway again. 4 mins of added time were announce and Barnet were unlucky not to snatch a goal, but the header from the corner went over. ull Time, and we celebrated another good win. 4-0 again,and I was very happy.
Barnet 0 - 4 Coventry
Mifsud (2), S.Hughes, Best, Borrowdale SO
Marshall-7
D.Simpson-8
Borrowdale-7.SO
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-7
Mifsud-8
S.Hughes-8
Tabb-8
M.Doyle-7
Best-8
Adebola-7
-----------
Cairo-6
Davis-6
Hawkins-7
Osbourne-7
Gray-6
R.Simpson-7
Konstantopoulos-7
Turner-7
McKenzie-6
Hall-Unused Sub
M.Hughes-Unused Sub
McNamee-7
Man of the Match was Michael Mifsud
Gary Borrowdale will be suspended for 1 match
In today's game, we played League Two side Barnet. Before the game I hoping we could again, win by about 3 or 4 goals like last week against Auchinlek, but again, the main thing was to get the player's fitness levels up for the start of the league season. I thought we were going to win it comfortably.
Now, I will update you of the transfer news this week so far. Kevin Kyle has completed his move to Sheffield Wednesday, so Good Luck to him, and our young loan signing, Danny Simpson linked up yesterday, and he plays today. Many of you already know about Rivaldo, but he doesn;t play today as he hasn't officially signed, however, he is one pen stroke away, but after completing a medical, he has gone back to Athens and hopes to move to England soon.
In today's game, I think the fans who have come to Underwood Park to watch us play would have liked to see us play as well as we did against Auchinlek. Fast, sexy etcetera. And I told the lads, this is what I expected from the players today.
Now to the team news. My starting XI is pretty much the same as against Auchinlek, with two or three changes. Three players were left out, young Kevin Thornton, as he still has ankle ligament damage, 18 year old Donovan Simmonds who also still has ankle ligament damage, and Danny Ireland, as I decided to bring Dimi (Konstantopoulos) in instead of him, although Danny worked hard for his clean sheet and I was very impressed with his work ethic and he definately has a very big future here at Coventry. I brought in Danny Simpson, our new loan signing in at right back for him to display his talents to me. Also, Ellery Cairo drops to teh bench, while Mifsud plays on teh right with Leon Best coming in to partner Adebola up front.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
Simpson---de Zeeuw(c)---Ward---Borrowdale
Mifsud-------S.Hughes-------M.Doyle----Tabb
--------------------Best--------Adebola
Subs (12): Cairo, Davis, Hawkins, Osbourne, Kyle, Gray, R.Simpson, Konstantopoulos (K), Turner, McKenzie, Hall, M.Hughes.
Me and the lads arrived at Barnet's's ground, Underwood Park. We got out of the bus and walked into the Club's changing rooms facilities. I have to say, it was very well kept. Someone obviously came in often to spruce the place up. We sat down,and while the lads got ready for the game, I said what was expected, and the usual talk, about tactics, players etc. And then we got outside, did a quick 10 minute warm up, and started the game.
This time, we got off to a great start, straight from kick off, captain Arjan de Zeeuw put a long ball forward in which Leon Best controlled, and shot from 18 yards, but his shot was tipped over for a corner. I was shouting at teh boys to maintain their concentration . On 19 mins, a Barnet free kick was cleared to Dele Adebola on the left wing, who crossed to 5ft5 Michael Mifsud who finished with an expertly controlled volley. 1-0.
AT half an hour, without Barnet having a single chance to threaten the Coventry goal, Jay Tabb put an expert ball over the defence whcih found Leon Best, who's shot went inches wide. On 37 minutes, a ball through the defence found Michael Mifsud, coming in off teh wing, and the Maltese striker didn't miss. 2-0. Mifsud on a hattrick. On 39 mins, a Jay Tabb corner found the head of midfielder Stephen Hughes who converted to get Coventry's 2nd goal in 3 mins. 3-0. On 42 mins, a harmless goal kick from Barnet resulted in an ariel challenge, in which Gary Borrowdale of Coventry was red carded for an elbow in the face. Half Time came. I gave Borrowdale an earful and then I made some changes. Adebola cam off for Liam Davis, who went to left back, Robbie Simpson on for Jay Tabb who went on the left, Konstantopoulos (K) came on for Andy Marshall (K), Ben Turner came on for Arjan de Zeeuw, McNamee on for S.Hughes, who went to right back and pushed Danny Simpson to right wing and Mifsud to centre forward. And tehn I told teh lads what I wanted and off we went for the second half.
On 46 mins, a long throw from Liam Davis bounced in Barnet's area, came to Leon Best's feet who passed it to centre bac Elliott Ward on the edge of teh area in acres of space, but his shot was blazed over.
On 60 mins, Leon Best was fouled on teh edge of teh area by Barnet midfielder Ismail Yakubu. Danny and Robbie Simpson stood behind the ball, and Robbie passed it to Danny and Danny hit a venomous shot with the outside of his right boot, the keeper saved well but teh rebound fell to Leon Best, who obliged. 4-0. On 69 mins, Doyle smasehed a 60 yard clearance, which Mifsud latched on to, somehow, and ran full force towards the box, but his shot went a yard wide. On 70 mins, Barnet winger Jason Puncheon put a ball into striker Chris Porter, but Porter took one touch too many and lost the ball, one of the few chances Barnet had to score.Seconds later, Mifsud's blistering pace worked dividends again when he took on 2 Barnet players, and put a superb pass through t Leon Best, but the keeper tipped his shot round the post. On 74 mins, I made a few changes. Colin Hawkins came on for a staright swap with Elliott Ward, Julian Gray came on for Robbie Simpson, Leon McKenzie came on for Michael Mifsud, Isaac Osbourne for Michael Doyle and Danny SImpson's debut came to an end when he was replaced by Ellery Cairo. I was very happy with the work from Simpson. And the match was underway again. 4 mins of added time were announce and Barnet were unlucky not to snatch a goal, but the header from the corner went over. ull Time, and we celebrated another good win. 4-0 again,and I was very happy.
Barnet 0 - 4 Coventry
Mifsud (2), S.Hughes, Best, Borrowdale SO
Marshall-7
D.Simpson-8
Borrowdale-7.SO
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-7
Mifsud-8
S.Hughes-8
Tabb-8
M.Doyle-7
Best-8
Adebola-7
-----------
Cairo-6
Davis-6
Hawkins-7
Osbourne-7
Gray-6
R.Simpson-7
Konstantopoulos-7
Turner-7
McKenzie-6
Hall-Unused Sub
M.Hughes-Unused Sub
McNamee-7
Man of the Match was Michael Mifsud
Gary Borrowdale will be suspended for 1 match
w3lshrugby
Panel of Selectors
Nice easy win there for Coventry - great start so far. RIVALDO???!??? :o
Keep up the good managing mate - its much better than anything I could do!
Keep up the good managing mate - its much better than anything I could do!
23/7/07
In today's game we ply non-league side Portadown, at their ground, Shamrock Park. Before the game I expected to again, win 4 or 5-0. After the last two, probably 4-0, but I am very pleased about the last two games and we saw them off with no bother at all. In my reign we have 8 goals scored, 0 conceded which is fantastic, but we are well aware that we would need to do this against Championship opposition.
Transfer news is that yong winger Liam Davis has been loaned out to Wrexham for some valuable 1st team experience, andwe look forward to having him back for a permanent place in the starting XI. Rivaldo was meant to sign for s yesterday, but he let us down at the last minute, he had just moved to Greek side AEK Athens, and his family were settled and didn't think it was the right move in the end. He wished us good luck, and we wished him good luck as well. I am very eager still to get a creative and quality midfielder in before the window slams shut, and I have put in a ?1.2 mil bid in for former Manchester City captain, Claudio Reyna. He is top quality, and would be a vital asset to the team if he was to sign. Wayne Andrews is in teh squad today after nothing has come f teh apparet interest in him from Rochdale. And thats the transfer news.
Right. Again, we hope for an emphatic victory, and the starting line up is as follows:
--------------------------Konstantopoulos
D.Simpson-----Turner---------Hawkins-----Borrowdale
Mifsud----------S.Hughes(c)----I.Osbourne---R.Simpson
------------------------Best---------McKenzie
SUBS (12): Cairo, Ireland, Doyle, Gray, Tabb, Marshall (K), Ward, de Zeew, McNamee, Hall, .Hughes, Adebola.
And yes. Yet another away game. So. 6 changes from the side that faced Barnet last time out. Dimi Konstantopoulos is the 3rd starting keeper in 3 games for us. All of the others have kept a clean sheet (Ireland, Marshall), so a tiny bit of pressure was on Dimi's shoulders. A new centre half partnership. De Zeeuw is rested as he is feeling a bit stiff, and Elliott Ward said he would step down for this game to let someone else deputise, so young talent Ben Turner starts along side Irishman Colin Hawkins, with young Danny Simpson, and Gary Borrowdale on either side. In the midfield, Michael Mifsud stayed on the right wing, and Michael Doyle dropped to the bench, and the most highly rated young player in the division, Isaac Osbourne came in to start along side Stephen Hughes in the centre. On the left, Robbie Simpson replaces Jay Tabb. Up top, Leon Best kept his place whilst Leon McKenzie who scored a brace for us against Auchinlek forced Dele Adebola, who has played fantastically well in every game, dropped onto the bench for a well earned rest.
When we got off our deluxe team bus, we arrived at Shamrock Park. It was a very nice place, however there was hardly any grass on the pitch, and it was a muddy mess. We walked to the away dressing room, which was surprisingly small. The lads had to nearly sit on each other's laps in order to get a seat. So anyway I had the usual chat with the lads about what I wanted from teh game and off we went for a pre match warm up.
We got off to a fantastic start. Portadown's goal kick, was knocked down to Leon Best from a Danny Simpson header, Best slotted it to Mifsud, who had a shot from the edge of the 18 yard box, which found the top corner. 1-0. I was praising the lad's effort. On 20 mins, an Isaac Osbourne free kick ws heade back to him, which hehis first time, but the shot went wide. On 28 mins, weconceded our first goal since I took charge, and it was very sloppy too, straight through our defence and slotted in the net by McColgan . 1-1. Straight from kickoff,we had nearly the perfect reply, a long ball from McKenzie to to Borrowdale, who crossed to Hughes,who passed to Robbie Simpson, whos shot went inches over. On 33 mins we were back in the lead, anexpert ball over he top of the defence from Isaac bourne was latched onto by Leon Best who took a shot, which was saved from teh keeper only to go in off defender Gourley. Gutted. 2-1. A minute later, Best took the ball from a Portadown midfielder, launched an attack and gave the ball to Mifsud who put a through ball to Isaac Osbourne in acres of space inside the area, who put the ball away with ease. 3-1. I was very happy with the reply. On 42 mins it was another goal for us. A great move it was too. Robbie Simpson gave the ball to Osbourne on the left who put Leon Best through, who couldn't keep his shot away from the keeper, but the ball fell kindly to Stephn Huges, who put into an empty net. 4-1. Just after 2 minutes of added time was signalled, Danny Simpson broght out his box of tricks, and took on a Portadown defender with ease, put a fantastic cross in to Isaac Osbourne who had ages to control inside the area, and converted for his second. 5-1. And that was the end of teh half, and I was very happy with the half bar the goal. At Half time I mad several changes. Cairo on for McKenzie, Gray on for Robbie SImpson, Michael Hughes on for Stephen Hughes, Elliott Ward on for Colin Hawkins, Dele Adebola on for Leon Best, Jay Tabb on for Ben Tuner, Tabb went into midfield for a 5 man midield for the second half and Danny Ireland (K) came on for Dimi Konstantopoulos (K).
And tehn we started the second half. The second half started very slowly. The first chance of the half coming on 77 mins, withJulin Gray fiing over from 7 yards. Poor finish. It was easier to score! On 80 mins, a superbMichael Hiughes through ball went to ifud, who put it awy wit minimum fuss, to grab his second . Great finish. 6-1. On 89 mins, a corner fell to a Portadon striker who headed home. Poor Marking, and I wasn't happy. But the flag went up, offside. still 6-1. And teh final whistle was blown. I was happy with the performance, however, I was a tad disappointed about conceding the goal.
Aftr tha game I said to the players of how well they played, an I gave a special metion to young Isaac Osbourne who ran the midfield all gam long. Well played.
Portadown 1 - 6 Coventry
Mifsud (2) Osbourne (2) S.Hughes Gourley OG
Konstantopoulos-7
D.Simpson-7
Borrowdale-7
Turner-7
Hawkins-7
McKenzie-7
S.Hughes-8
R.Simpson-8
I.Osbourne-8
Best-8
Mifsud-8
Cairo-7
Ireland-7
Doyle-unused sb
Gray-7
Tabb-6
Marshall (K)-unused sub
Ward-7
de Zeew-unsed sub
McNamee-unused sub
Hall-unused sub
M.Hughes-7
Adebola-7
Man of the Match was Isaac Osbourne
In today's game we ply non-league side Portadown, at their ground, Shamrock Park. Before the game I expected to again, win 4 or 5-0. After the last two, probably 4-0, but I am very pleased about the last two games and we saw them off with no bother at all. In my reign we have 8 goals scored, 0 conceded which is fantastic, but we are well aware that we would need to do this against Championship opposition.
Transfer news is that yong winger Liam Davis has been loaned out to Wrexham for some valuable 1st team experience, andwe look forward to having him back for a permanent place in the starting XI. Rivaldo was meant to sign for s yesterday, but he let us down at the last minute, he had just moved to Greek side AEK Athens, and his family were settled and didn't think it was the right move in the end. He wished us good luck, and we wished him good luck as well. I am very eager still to get a creative and quality midfielder in before the window slams shut, and I have put in a ?1.2 mil bid in for former Manchester City captain, Claudio Reyna. He is top quality, and would be a vital asset to the team if he was to sign. Wayne Andrews is in teh squad today after nothing has come f teh apparet interest in him from Rochdale. And thats the transfer news.
Right. Again, we hope for an emphatic victory, and the starting line up is as follows:
--------------------------Konstantopoulos
D.Simpson-----Turner---------Hawkins-----Borrowdale
Mifsud----------S.Hughes(c)----I.Osbourne---R.Simpson
------------------------Best---------McKenzie
SUBS (12): Cairo, Ireland, Doyle, Gray, Tabb, Marshall (K), Ward, de Zeew, McNamee, Hall, .Hughes, Adebola.
And yes. Yet another away game. So. 6 changes from the side that faced Barnet last time out. Dimi Konstantopoulos is the 3rd starting keeper in 3 games for us. All of the others have kept a clean sheet (Ireland, Marshall), so a tiny bit of pressure was on Dimi's shoulders. A new centre half partnership. De Zeeuw is rested as he is feeling a bit stiff, and Elliott Ward said he would step down for this game to let someone else deputise, so young talent Ben Turner starts along side Irishman Colin Hawkins, with young Danny Simpson, and Gary Borrowdale on either side. In the midfield, Michael Mifsud stayed on the right wing, and Michael Doyle dropped to the bench, and the most highly rated young player in the division, Isaac Osbourne came in to start along side Stephen Hughes in the centre. On the left, Robbie Simpson replaces Jay Tabb. Up top, Leon Best kept his place whilst Leon McKenzie who scored a brace for us against Auchinlek forced Dele Adebola, who has played fantastically well in every game, dropped onto the bench for a well earned rest.
When we got off our deluxe team bus, we arrived at Shamrock Park. It was a very nice place, however there was hardly any grass on the pitch, and it was a muddy mess. We walked to the away dressing room, which was surprisingly small. The lads had to nearly sit on each other's laps in order to get a seat. So anyway I had the usual chat with the lads about what I wanted from teh game and off we went for a pre match warm up.
We got off to a fantastic start. Portadown's goal kick, was knocked down to Leon Best from a Danny Simpson header, Best slotted it to Mifsud, who had a shot from the edge of the 18 yard box, which found the top corner. 1-0. I was praising the lad's effort. On 20 mins, an Isaac Osbourne free kick ws heade back to him, which hehis first time, but the shot went wide. On 28 mins, weconceded our first goal since I took charge, and it was very sloppy too, straight through our defence and slotted in the net by McColgan . 1-1. Straight from kickoff,we had nearly the perfect reply, a long ball from McKenzie to to Borrowdale, who crossed to Hughes,who passed to Robbie Simpson, whos shot went inches over. On 33 mins we were back in the lead, anexpert ball over he top of the defence from Isaac bourne was latched onto by Leon Best who took a shot, which was saved from teh keeper only to go in off defender Gourley. Gutted. 2-1. A minute later, Best took the ball from a Portadown midfielder, launched an attack and gave the ball to Mifsud who put a through ball to Isaac Osbourne in acres of space inside the area, who put the ball away with ease. 3-1. I was very happy with the reply. On 42 mins it was another goal for us. A great move it was too. Robbie Simpson gave the ball to Osbourne on the left who put Leon Best through, who couldn't keep his shot away from the keeper, but the ball fell kindly to Stephn Huges, who put into an empty net. 4-1. Just after 2 minutes of added time was signalled, Danny Simpson broght out his box of tricks, and took on a Portadown defender with ease, put a fantastic cross in to Isaac Osbourne who had ages to control inside the area, and converted for his second. 5-1. And that was the end of teh half, and I was very happy with the half bar the goal. At Half time I mad several changes. Cairo on for McKenzie, Gray on for Robbie SImpson, Michael Hughes on for Stephen Hughes, Elliott Ward on for Colin Hawkins, Dele Adebola on for Leon Best, Jay Tabb on for Ben Tuner, Tabb went into midfield for a 5 man midield for the second half and Danny Ireland (K) came on for Dimi Konstantopoulos (K).
And tehn we started the second half. The second half started very slowly. The first chance of the half coming on 77 mins, withJulin Gray fiing over from 7 yards. Poor finish. It was easier to score! On 80 mins, a superbMichael Hiughes through ball went to ifud, who put it awy wit minimum fuss, to grab his second . Great finish. 6-1. On 89 mins, a corner fell to a Portadon striker who headed home. Poor Marking, and I wasn't happy. But the flag went up, offside. still 6-1. And teh final whistle was blown. I was happy with the performance, however, I was a tad disappointed about conceding the goal.
Aftr tha game I said to the players of how well they played, an I gave a special metion to young Isaac Osbourne who ran the midfield all gam long. Well played.
Portadown 1 - 6 Coventry
Mifsud (2) Osbourne (2) S.Hughes Gourley OG
Konstantopoulos-7
D.Simpson-7
Borrowdale-7
Turner-7
Hawkins-7
McKenzie-7
S.Hughes-8
R.Simpson-8
I.Osbourne-8
Best-8
Mifsud-8
Cairo-7
Ireland-7
Doyle-unused sb
Gray-7
Tabb-6
Marshall (K)-unused sub
Ward-7
de Zeew-unsed sub
McNamee-unused sub
Hall-unused sub
M.Hughes-7
Adebola-7
Man of the Match was Isaac Osbourne
Jaztheman
Chairman of Selectors
Nice win again but all these games are easy games. 
Yeah, I have a few news stories, big ones too, that I haven't posted yet, but they're on my main computer (the one I'm usually on) but I am on my dad's laptop at the moment so I can't write them up yet, also I am not allowed on MSN because it doesn't work on the laptop, so I'll post them up tomorrow, as I'm listening to the Coventry commentary on the Hull match.
They are easy matches I know, but the main thing is that I get the players fit for the start of the Championship. And GIGGITY GIGGITY, cheers mate
we know
They are easy matches I know, but the main thing is that I get the players fit for the start of the Championship. And GIGGITY GIGGITY, cheers mate
we know ANDREWS OFF TO ROCHDALE?
Coventry striker Wayne Andrews is being linked with a move to Rochdale. Andrews' agent denies having contact with the League Two side, but says that Andrews may be looking for a way out for some first team football. Andrews was out of favour last season and the Coventry side has forgotten about him.
WREXHAM LOAN DAVIS
Up-and-coming Coventry winger, Liam Davis, has been loaned out to Leafue 2 side Wrexham ina 3 month loan deal. Davis, who wasn't exactly out of favour in the Coventry team, wanted regular first team experience. Manager Craig Tough said he is just about worthy of a first team place in Coventry's side currently, but when Wrexham offered, he knew deep down that a move to the Welsh side was right.
RIVALDO SNUBS COVENTRY
Former Brazil midifelder Rivaldo, today sensationally declined a move to Coventry City after the personal terms stage. He agreed with his wife and kids that it wasn't the right move for him as his family had only just settled in Greece. Rivaldo wishes Coventry the best of luck for the current season.
COVENTRY DESPERATE, REYNA BID
Coventry City assistant manager Alan Shearer has revealed to 'Sky Sports' that they are in a desperate search for a midfielder. After Rivaldo quit talks in teh last minute, Craig Tough's ear hasn't been without contact of the phone. Shearer also revealed that they have made a £1.2mil bid for former Manchester City captain, American Claudio Reyna, currently at American side, Red Bull New York. Talks are ongoing.
Football Manager 2008 mate.
New York Red Bulls have rejected Coventry's bid for midfielder Claudio Reyna. The former Manchester City captain valued by Coventry at ?1mil felt that anything more would be ridiculous. Since the rejection, Coventry have withdrawn interest. Coventry still on the lookout for a midfielder.
Gary Borrowdale's red card ban has been extended for a further two games for his elbow on a Barnet during City's 4-0 win against the League 2 team. Borrowdale will now miss the start of the new Championship season. The extension was reviewed by an FA Comittee after compaints from the Barnet manager. A video was sent and further action was taken.
Coventry goalkeeping coach Tim Flowers has been tracking young Chelsea midfielder Scott Sinclair. Sinclair, 18, has been on loan spells with Plymouth Argyle and QPR and has now gone back to Chelsea. In 5 appearances for Chelsea, Sinclair has scored the once and looks a very bright talent. Tim FLowers believes that Coventry may have to resort to a loan because SInclair still has 4 years left on his Chelsea contract, but believes they may be able to sign him on a permanent. Flowers went to Chelsea's friendly match against QPR in which Sinclair came off teh bench to score 2 goals in 5 minutes against a regular QPR defence, and if he goes to Coventry, he could be a vital part of success.
COVENTRY BID FOR SINCLAIR
Coventry City Chairman Ray Ranson has revealed in a press conference that they have bid ?800K for talented Chelsea striker Scott Sinclair.
SkyBet have revealed their odds for this Championship.
West Brom and Charlton are joint favourites for promotion with odds of 7-4. Coventry's odds of promotion are 50-1, so a long hard battle looks imminent.
Friendly with local rivals Nuneaton Borough coming soon...
ANOTHER BID REJECTED
New York Red Bulls have rejected Coventry's bid for midfielder Claudio Reyna. The former Manchester City captain valued by Coventry at ?1mil felt that anything more would be ridiculous. Since the rejection, Coventry have withdrawn interest. Coventry still on the lookout for a midfielder.
BORROWDALE BAN EXTENDED
Gary Borrowdale's red card ban has been extended for a further two games for his elbow on a Barnet during City's 4-0 win against the League 2 team. Borrowdale will now miss the start of the new Championship season. The extension was reviewed by an FA Comittee after compaints from the Barnet manager. A video was sent and further action was taken.
COVENTRY TRACK SINCLAIR
Coventry goalkeeping coach Tim Flowers has been tracking young Chelsea midfielder Scott Sinclair. Sinclair, 18, has been on loan spells with Plymouth Argyle and QPR and has now gone back to Chelsea. In 5 appearances for Chelsea, Sinclair has scored the once and looks a very bright talent. Tim FLowers believes that Coventry may have to resort to a loan because SInclair still has 4 years left on his Chelsea contract, but believes they may be able to sign him on a permanent. Flowers went to Chelsea's friendly match against QPR in which Sinclair came off teh bench to score 2 goals in 5 minutes against a regular QPR defence, and if he goes to Coventry, he could be a vital part of success.
COVENTRY BID FOR SINCLAIR
Coventry City Chairman Ray Ranson has revealed in a press conference that they have bid ?800K for talented Chelsea striker Scott Sinclair.
07/08 CHAMPIONSHIP ODDS RELEASED
SkyBet have revealed their odds for this Championship.
West Brom and Charlton are joint favourites for promotion with odds of 7-4. Coventry's odds of promotion are 50-1, so a long hard battle looks imminent.
Friendly with local rivals Nuneaton Borough coming soon...
27/7/07
In today's game, we played non-league side Nuneaton Borough, and being the closest football team to Coventry, it was my first derby in charge and I really wanted to win it. Before the game I expected to win the game obviously, and win with style. I really don't want to concede a goal but I could say that about any game really.
So, now just to update you about who has come and gone this week. Liam Davis has been loaned out to Wrexham, so obviously won't be taking part today, and Claudio Reyna rejected our final bid for him, and we hope to bring in a midfielder in teh remainder of te transfer window. Wayne Andrews plays today as the Rochdale interest seems to have been pure speculation.
In today's fixture, I reckon the fans who have travelled over would have wanted to see a fast flowing victory with great passing throughout to raise their confidence for teh new season as teh odds are against us for a promotion push, but we as a club think we have every chance of promotion.
Now to the team news. In the starting XI I decided to go full strength in our last pre season fixture. Three players were left out, young Kevin Thornton, as he has ankle ligament damage still, and so does Donovan Simmonds. And Isaac Osbourne keeps his place after a terrific performance last time out.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw(c)---Ward---Hall
Mifsud-------I.Osbourne-------M.Doyle----Tabb
--------------------Best
-------------------------------------Adebola
Subs (12): Cairo, Konstantopoulos (K), Hawkins, Osbourne, Gray, R.Simpson, Ireland (K), Turner, McKenzie, Borrowdale, M.Hughes, D.McNamee,
Me and the lads arrived at Nuneaton's ground, Nuneaton Stadium. We got out of the coach, and straight onto the pitch to cross over to the dressing rooms. They were more like barn sheds but we didn't might. We had a job to do. So my first derby game was on teh horizon and I told the players what I wanted. A win. Nice football. Comfortable.
And we kicked off. A half decent start, a Doyle shot went over on just 3 minutes, and I always like to get the first shot in. On 5 mins, a corner from the left from Jay Tabb fell straight on to captain Arjan de Zeeuw's head who headed superbly for his first Coventry goal. 1-0. My first derby day was going according to plan. On 8 mins Nuneaton went close when strike Don Brown went one on one with keeper Andy Marshall, but our keeper stood firm to make a comfortable and proffesional save. A minute later, Leon Best was tripped on the edge of the area. Doyle took the resulting free kcik, it was blocked by the wall and it came out to Adebola who struck wide. On 10mins in an action packed first 10, Nuneaton went close again. Another one on one, but again, Marshall handled things well and he gathered the ball comfortably. On 23 mins Adebola carried the ball and gave it to Doyle who's shot was deflected out for a corner. On 28 mins, a long ball forward from Dimi Konstantopoulos was expertly controlled by Jay Tabb, who put Michael Doyle through on goal, who squared the ball for Mifsud to fire home. 2-0. On 34 mins, a clash with a Borough player saw Michael Doyle pick up a knock and had to go off. Disappointing as he was doing very well in midfield. He was replaced by Michael Hughes. On 35 mins a chipped cross from Isaac Osbourne was met by Leon Best, but was blocked and arrived at the feet of veteran left back Marcus Hall, who fired a shot, but a very good save from the Borough keeper tipped it round the post. Corner. One minute of injury time was played, and then the half time whistle blew. At half time Ben Turner cam on for Elliott Ward, S.Hughes on for Osbourne to make a Hughes and Hughes midfield, Leon McKenzie on for Jay Tabb and Robbie Simpson replaced Leon Best up front.
And then we were off. On 49 mins Dele Adebola bulldozed his way throught the defence and put a delightful cross in, met by Right Back Danny Simpson who struck wide. On 72 mins Stephen Hughes played a 35 yard pass down the left wing, which was met by huge Adebola, who was fouled and won a free kcik just on the edge on the left of the Borough area, it was taken by Leon McKenzie, who's shot hit the side netting. On 85mins, Nuneaten boasted their best chance of the game so far, but Allardyce shot over from 6. The 4th official signalled 3 minutes of stoppage time. And that was the end. A 2-0 victory for Coventry.
I have to say, I was a bit disappointed to only win by 2 goals, but we grafted and we won. And I have won my first derby game, which not many past Coventry managers can say. So, that was our pre season, and I take a 100% record in to the first fixture of the new Championship season against Hull City away. And I cannot wait until my first home game in charge. SO if you can, get to it! I told the lads I was happy about the pre season, and I also told them to work hard for the start of the new season.
Nuneaton 0 - 2 Coventry
Mifsud, de Zeeuw
Marshall-7
D.Simpson-7
Hall-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-8
Mifsud-8
I.Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-7
Best- 7
Adebola-7
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
Konstantopoulos (K)-unused sub
Hawkins-unused sub
S.Hughes-6
Gray-unused sub
R.Simpson-7
Ireland (K)-unused sub
Turner-7
McKenzie-6
Borrowdale-unused sub
M.Hughes-7
D.McNamee-unused sub
Man of the Match was Arjan de Zeeuw
In today's game, we played non-league side Nuneaton Borough, and being the closest football team to Coventry, it was my first derby in charge and I really wanted to win it. Before the game I expected to win the game obviously, and win with style. I really don't want to concede a goal but I could say that about any game really.
So, now just to update you about who has come and gone this week. Liam Davis has been loaned out to Wrexham, so obviously won't be taking part today, and Claudio Reyna rejected our final bid for him, and we hope to bring in a midfielder in teh remainder of te transfer window. Wayne Andrews plays today as the Rochdale interest seems to have been pure speculation.
In today's fixture, I reckon the fans who have travelled over would have wanted to see a fast flowing victory with great passing throughout to raise their confidence for teh new season as teh odds are against us for a promotion push, but we as a club think we have every chance of promotion.
Now to the team news. In the starting XI I decided to go full strength in our last pre season fixture. Three players were left out, young Kevin Thornton, as he has ankle ligament damage still, and so does Donovan Simmonds. And Isaac Osbourne keeps his place after a terrific performance last time out.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw(c)---Ward---Hall
Mifsud-------I.Osbourne-------M.Doyle----Tabb
--------------------Best
-------------------------------------Adebola
Subs (12): Cairo, Konstantopoulos (K), Hawkins, Osbourne, Gray, R.Simpson, Ireland (K), Turner, McKenzie, Borrowdale, M.Hughes, D.McNamee,
Me and the lads arrived at Nuneaton's ground, Nuneaton Stadium. We got out of the coach, and straight onto the pitch to cross over to the dressing rooms. They were more like barn sheds but we didn't might. We had a job to do. So my first derby game was on teh horizon and I told the players what I wanted. A win. Nice football. Comfortable.
And we kicked off. A half decent start, a Doyle shot went over on just 3 minutes, and I always like to get the first shot in. On 5 mins, a corner from the left from Jay Tabb fell straight on to captain Arjan de Zeeuw's head who headed superbly for his first Coventry goal. 1-0. My first derby day was going according to plan. On 8 mins Nuneaton went close when strike Don Brown went one on one with keeper Andy Marshall, but our keeper stood firm to make a comfortable and proffesional save. A minute later, Leon Best was tripped on the edge of the area. Doyle took the resulting free kcik, it was blocked by the wall and it came out to Adebola who struck wide. On 10mins in an action packed first 10, Nuneaton went close again. Another one on one, but again, Marshall handled things well and he gathered the ball comfortably. On 23 mins Adebola carried the ball and gave it to Doyle who's shot was deflected out for a corner. On 28 mins, a long ball forward from Dimi Konstantopoulos was expertly controlled by Jay Tabb, who put Michael Doyle through on goal, who squared the ball for Mifsud to fire home. 2-0. On 34 mins, a clash with a Borough player saw Michael Doyle pick up a knock and had to go off. Disappointing as he was doing very well in midfield. He was replaced by Michael Hughes. On 35 mins a chipped cross from Isaac Osbourne was met by Leon Best, but was blocked and arrived at the feet of veteran left back Marcus Hall, who fired a shot, but a very good save from the Borough keeper tipped it round the post. Corner. One minute of injury time was played, and then the half time whistle blew. At half time Ben Turner cam on for Elliott Ward, S.Hughes on for Osbourne to make a Hughes and Hughes midfield, Leon McKenzie on for Jay Tabb and Robbie Simpson replaced Leon Best up front.
And then we were off. On 49 mins Dele Adebola bulldozed his way throught the defence and put a delightful cross in, met by Right Back Danny Simpson who struck wide. On 72 mins Stephen Hughes played a 35 yard pass down the left wing, which was met by huge Adebola, who was fouled and won a free kcik just on the edge on the left of the Borough area, it was taken by Leon McKenzie, who's shot hit the side netting. On 85mins, Nuneaten boasted their best chance of the game so far, but Allardyce shot over from 6. The 4th official signalled 3 minutes of stoppage time. And that was the end. A 2-0 victory for Coventry.
I have to say, I was a bit disappointed to only win by 2 goals, but we grafted and we won. And I have won my first derby game, which not many past Coventry managers can say. So, that was our pre season, and I take a 100% record in to the first fixture of the new Championship season against Hull City away. And I cannot wait until my first home game in charge. SO if you can, get to it! I told the lads I was happy about the pre season, and I also told them to work hard for the start of the new season.
Nuneaton 0 - 2 Coventry
Mifsud, de Zeeuw
Marshall-7
D.Simpson-7
Hall-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-8
Mifsud-8
I.Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-7
Best- 7
Adebola-7
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
Konstantopoulos (K)-unused sub
Hawkins-unused sub
S.Hughes-6
Gray-unused sub
R.Simpson-7
Ireland (K)-unused sub
Turner-7
McKenzie-6
Borrowdale-unused sub
M.Hughes-7
D.McNamee-unused sub
Man of the Match was Arjan de Zeeuw
Jaztheman
Chairman of Selectors
Another easy win! Mifsud is Coventry God.
- Status
