treva
ICC Chairman
This is a fantastic story you have going here Craig! Really in-depth transfer talk and club news, which I really like. And the match day stuff is very thorough and neatly presented. Great work, I will be reading 
Can A Mod Close This Thread, I Am Starting A New Story
- Thread starter covlad-99
- Start date
- Status
18/8//07
Right, today we played our second league match of the season and my first home league match in charge, and after the reaction towards me against Leyton Orient at home in the cup win, I wasn't nervous at all. We played Stoke City, and the bookies made us favourites, and we felt confident of getting our first league victory of the season. I couldn't wait to get the game started.
Transfer news. Viafara unforunately won't be coming to the club after his transfer fell through at the last minute, but we plan to bring newcastle midfielder Matty Pattison into the squad on a short term loan deal. I am confident that this one will happen.
In today's game, I heard again that there would be a nearly full Ricoh Arena, and the fans were going to be full of confidence and singing their hearts out like they did last week against Hull away and midweek against Orient. And I reassured them that 3 points are coming our way. Also I can reveal that young striker Donovan Simmonds and young midfielder Kevin Thornton will both be fit for our next game aftre returning from ligament damage.
Now to the team news. The same set of players as I had midweek but different starting lineup. Ellery Cairo drops to the bench and is replaced by Leon McKenzie who goes to the left wing and Jay Tabb plays on the right. Also Stephen hughes drops to the bench and Isaac Osbourne comes in for him. Other than that I am unchanged.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw (c)---Ward---Hall
Tabb-------Osbourne-------M.Doyle------McKenzie
---------------------Best-------Mifsud
Subs (5): Michael Hughes, McNamee, S.Hughes, Colin Hawkins, Cairo
Again I arrived at the ground to a few City fans cheering me on and again, I got a confidence boost in my first home league game in charge, and looked upon the magnifiscent Ricoh Arena, made my way into the dressing room, and the players' kits were already laid out, and I was going over my notes for today. Then the lads arrived, and I went over the tactics and who to look out for etcetera, and we went outside for a warm up.
Straight away after 17 seconds we got the first opportunity, Michael Doyle shooting straight at the keeper from 20 yards, the rebound falling to Mifsud who was offside. Good start. On 7 mins Isaac Osbourne recieved a pass in a good position from Jay Tabb, but his shot was saved and won Coventry a corner. On 21 mins, a great chance for Stoke, De Zeeuw failing to control a danny Simpson throw, and it went to Cresswell behind him, but a smart save from Andy Marshall stopped Stoke from taking the lead. On 21 mins, a fantastic 40 yard pass from captain Arjan de Zeeuw found Jay Tabb who controled superbly and put a killer ball into Leon Best who finished expertly. 1-0. I was running up and down the touchline like Jose Mourinho. The fans chanting "There's only one Leon Best.". On 26 mins, a great effort from Richard Creswell of Stoke was FANTASTICALLY saved by Andy Marshall. It had to be a contender for save of the season. I was full of praise for Marshall. On 40 mins, Leon McKenzie had the chance to make it 2-0, but his shot was saved well. And that was the last noteable action of the half. 1-0 up at the half time whilstle. I was very happy. At half time, I made no changes and told the players not to get complacent.
And off we went. And a great start to the half. Bets picking the ball up just outside the area, giving it to Mifsud who unleahed a powerful strike, which sailed into teh bottom corner, and I was waving a Sky Blue scarf above my head, and the fans were going crazy. 2-0. The Stoke defence claiming an offside, but Coventry didn't stop around to listen. On 59 mins, Stoke pulled a goal back, a free kcik on the left given away by Jay Tabb, Matteo put the ball in and it was headed in superbly by Richard Creswell. 2-1. And I was back to biting my nails. But then, the referee came over, and disallowed teh goal, apparently Creswell tugged on Ward's shirt. Still 2-0. I was a lot happier, although I shouted again to the players not to be complacent. On 65 mins, Ricardo Fuller went 1 on 1 with Andy Marshall, but a teriffic save from Marshall, although a corner came at his expense. At this I made my 3 changes. Cairo on for Tabb, McNamee on for Simpson and Stephen Hughes on for Isaac Osbourne. An awful corner from Stoke and we got a goal kick. On 69 mins, a great chance for Ricardo Fuller hit the side netting. On 75 mins, Richard Creswell went close again for Stoke, but another phenomena save from Andy Marshall denied him again. On 81 mins, another disallowed goal, this time from us, Michael Doyle firing home, only to be denied by teh 4th official. Gutted. 86 mins and what a goal. Stoke free kick was headed out by de Zeeuw, Mifsud ran the whole length of the pitch and finished into the top corner. What a player Michael Mifsud is. 3-0. The fans were even happier and were going through every player on teh pitch and telling teh player to give the a wave. Fantastic. Brace for Magic Mifsud. On 89 mins, it should have been 4, McKenzie put through by best, but his shot was saved. 3 minutes of added time followed. Fulll time, and what a performance. I could instantly tell that the players had listened to what I had said all week and the defending was top draw today, as was everything else. Coventry City, I salute you. 3-0. 3 points. And thats 3 in 3 for Mifsud.
Coventry 3 - 0 Stoke
Best, Mifsud (2)
Marshall-8
D.Simpson-7
Hall-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-7
McKenzie-7
Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-7
Best-8
Mifsud-8
-----------
M.Hughes-unused sub
McNamee-7
S.Hughes-7
Hawkins-unused sub
Cairo-7
Man of the Match was Michael Mifsud
Cheers trev!
PATTISON ACCEPTS COVENTRY LOAN DEAL
Newcastle left winger Matty Pattison has rejected offers from Scunthorpe, Preston and Barnsley to join Coventry on a 5 month loan deal. Pattison goes straight into the squad to face Crystal Palace. Tough is relieved to finally have a midfielder signed. Pattison, 20, says he is relishing first team experience and that he wanted to come as soon as Coventry showed interest. He will wear the number 15.
MARSHALL GETS IN TEAM OF THE WEEK
In-form Coventry 'keeper Andy Marshall, has been rewarded for his fantastic performance for Craig Tough's men against Stoke City on Saturday. Tough said everyone played well that game, but Andy Marshall saved us from conceeding goals at vital times.
VETERAN PHILLIPS MAY GET COVENTRY MOVE
According to a local paper, Coventry have bidded for transfer listed West Brom striker Kevin Phillips. The figure is believed to be ?190K, and Tony Mowbray the West Brom boss didn't say that he wasn't going to Coventry, and said it was 'complicated'. Coventry have 1 week to complete the deal before the deadline slams shut.
SIMPSON SET FOR SCUNTHORPE
Coventry striker Robbie Simpson is set to move to Scunthorpe on loan for the rest of the season. Simpson, 21 has been out of action for a while but is back soon and Scunthorpe believe he could be a significant part of the team in tehir bid to stay up after winning promotion last season. Tough said he wouldn't stop him as long as it wasn't a permanent as Simpson is part of Tough's future plans.
Palace v Coventry coming tomorrow...
Last edited:
treva
ICC Chairman
Kevin Phillips would be a huge signing. If you bag him you would have a great strike force!
Last edited:
Well if he does come, with Best and Mifsud playing so well, a selection headache is definately on the cards. He is quite old so might have to settle for a bench place, but then who would I drop from the bench???? Probably Michael Hughes. 35 odd years old is Hughes, and not fantastic, may well release him at the end of the season. But hopefully I bag him, and Simpson will get some first team football at Scunnie which will be a boost for him. Thornton and Simmonds both worthy of first team places and back soon and the Adebola and Gray too!!!! Arrggggghhh! Headache!
25/8/07
Today we played Crysta Palace who were coming off the back of a 4-2 win away at Ipswich, so I was delighted about the match that was in prospect. We were to travel to Sellhurst Park looking for 3 points, like we do every week. None of that "I'll settle for a point" rubbish. 3 points is what I expect every game. And I expected the players to perform.
Transfer news. I am delighted to say that loan signing Matty Pattison will make hie Coventry debut today, and will start on the left wing. A great boost to the squad in what promises to be a very tough game. Also West Brom striker Kevin Phillips and his club are going over my bid and deciding whether its acceptable or not.If we had him in our squad too, we have a promotion winning side in the making.
Injuries now. And I was disappointed that young players Kevin Thornton and Donovan Simmonds still weren't ready to feature, but I was very confident they would be back next game, however we did welcome back 2 absentees. Young defenders Ben Turner and Gary Borrowdale were back from suspensions, and both featured today.
Now to today's team news. I made a few changes to the side that beat Stoke 3-0 in a stunning victory. New loan signing Matty Pattison started on the left, forcing Cairo to the bench, and pushing Jay Tabb out on the right. Hall dropped to the bench and was replaced by Gary Borrowdale, playing his first league game of the season, and Ben Turner lined up on the bench and Michael Hughes didn't feature.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw (c)---Ward---Borrowdale
Tabb-------Osbourne-------M.Doyle------Pattison
---------------------Best-------Mifsud
Subs (5): Hall, Turner, S.Hughes, McKenzie, Cairo
Me and the lads arrived at Sellhurst Park looking for another 3 points to really give us a platform for the rest of the season, and I couldn't wait to get the game underway. I thought our squad could easily win today, and if everyone did their job, I knew no problems would come our way. Again, our fans turned out in numbers, bringing 6,000 fans to London in a very important game. We got into the changing rooms and I gave the lads some very important instructions and tactics they would need to use to carry out their full potential. the players went out and we were up for the task.
And we got the game underway. A very impressive start and we got a very important early goal. Michael Doyle stealing the ball from Dan Butterfield, and passed straight away to Mifsud who found himself with acres of space to find teh net. And he did just that, Mifsud gets another goal. 1-0 already. I was ecstatic! And on 7 mins, I had to pinch myself. Another goal! Leon Best recieving the ball from a Danny Simpson pass and he controlled superbly, gave the ball to Isaac Osbourne on the edge of the area, who gave the ball to Mifsud's feet and he put debut boy Matty Pattison through who finished expertly. Great start from the team and Pattison connecting already. It was as if he had played for the club for 10 years! Amazing. 2-0.And on 15 mins, the defence switched off. Ben Watson recieving the ball on the edge, gave it to Clinton Morrison who finished easily. 2-1. I shouted at the boys not to be complacent. On 18 mins, ben Watson had the chance to lvel things up, but the shot was well saved by in-form Andy Marshall. On 24 mins, Jay Tabb made a great run down the middle, giving the ball to Leon Best, who's shot went just over. We were back in control of the game. On 26 mins, Matty Pattison showed just why I signed him. A fantastic run on the left in which he got past Dan Butterfield as if he wasn't there, a double step over and fired in a cross so good that Mifsud was able to control it and bag his 5th goal in 3 and a half games. I was shouting praise a Mifsud and especially Pattison, and our fans were in huge voice, and were chanting the players' names. 3-1. On 32 mins, Crystal Palace's newly signed striker bradley Wright-Phillips out-paced Arjan De Zeeuw to have a great chance to get Palace back in the game again, but his shot fired just over. And on 32 mins, a one two between Morrison and Wright-Phillips did get palace back in the game, Wright Phillips firing in from close range. I was disappointed, but the pace of the passing was outstanding. 3-2. That was the last noteable action of a fantastic first half. But i knew that I had to change the defence round a bit as Bradley WP was giving us a torrid time, he was just so quick. To counter this, I brough Danny Simpson into the centre back positiona and brought Ben Turner on for Elliott Ward to play right back. Then we got the second half up and running.
On 53 mins, Micky Doyle had a free kick bang on the edge of teh Palace area, in which took a few deflections and fell to Mifsud, who you would have bet your house on him scoring, but he was denied his hat trick by the goalpost. Gutted. And on 62 mins, that was all forgotten about when Matty Pattison put another inch perfect cross in for 5ft5inches striker Mifsud to head home, what a debut for Pattison, a goal and 2 assists so far, and a Mifsud hat trick. Superb again. 4-2. After the goal, Isaac Osbourne limped off injured, and was replced by Stephen Hughes. I shouted to the lads that it was no where near over yet and to keep focused. On 74 mins, a surprise substitution from Palace. Wright Phillips came off for Dougie Freedman, and my tactic worked, as Simpson was trapping any ball that was passed through to Wright-Phillips. But then I put Simpson back out on the right, and put turner in the centre. I showed my appreciation for his performance in the centre. And then I made my last sub, Cairo in a straight swap for Tabb on the right. On 78 mins, Palace stiker Clinton Morrison was sent off for an elbow in ben turner's face. Palace manager Neil Warnock and and Morrison himself looked bemused, but you can't put your hands anywhere near someone's face nowadays or els eyou are in deep trouble as Morrison found out. On 91 mins, Stephen hughes recieved the ball on the edge and unleashed a fantastic strike, which went agonisingly wide. And that was it. The Hull defeat well behind us as we went on a 3 game winning streak. What a performance. Michael Mifsud would grab the headlines for his fantastic hat trick, but for me Matty Pattison was the best player on teh pitch by a country mile. What a debut, and a great signing for any Premier League club. Outstanding player.
Crystal Palace 2 - 4 Coventry
Mifsud (3), Pattison
Marshall-7
D.Simpson-7
Borrowdale-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-7
Pattison-8
Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-8
Tabb-7
Best-7
Mifsud-9
-----------
Cairo-6
McKenzie-unused sub
S.Hughes-7
Hall-unused sub
Turner-7
Man of the Match was Michael Mifsud, but I will comment I feel Pattison deserrved it more.
PHILLIPS SET FOR MOVE TO COVENTRY
Coventry's offer for West Brom striker Kevin Phillips has been accepted. Phillips said he would love a move to Coventry, and that personal terms will be completed in the near future. Coventry have 5 days to sign him before the window slams shut on the last day of August.
PALACE APPEAL AGAINST RED CARD
Crystal Palace are set to appeal against Clinton Morrison's sending off against Coventry, in Coventry's 4-2 win at Sellhurst Park. Morrison was alledged to elbow young Covntry defender Ben Turner in the face. Manager Craig Tough believes the referee made the right choice.
Last edited:
Lwkfella1991
Club Cricketer
good stroy mate really injoying it
treva
ICC Chairman
Wow that Pattison guy looks good. Nice little deal you've got there if he can keep performing like that. Good win over a good side there!
Yes, I have to say I didn't think he would be anything special, and I thought I would just give him a run out to get his legs pumping, but now I feel he deserves to play most games. Good news now!:
Coventry striker Michael Mifsud has broke into the Championship 'Team of the Week' after a magnifiscent hat trick against Crystal Palace. Mifsud, 25 now already has about 6 goals and looks set to be Coventry's top scorer this season. Mifsud told Setanta Sports News that he was 'delighted' to recieve the accolade, but felt if the players around him hadn't played so well, then he wouldn't have got his three goals, and he dedicated the place to the team.
Veteran striker Kevin Phillips today completed his ?190K move from West brom to Coventry. The striker was out of favour at West Brom and Craig Tough stated he was delighted at bagging the Baggie. Phillips, 34 signs a 2 year contract, and goes straight into the squad to face Stoke City in the second round of the Carling Cup. Phillips said he was relieved to get the deal done 2 days before the deadline.
MIFSUD GETS IN TEAM OF THE WEEK
Coventry striker Michael Mifsud has broke into the Championship 'Team of the Week' after a magnifiscent hat trick against Crystal Palace. Mifsud, 25 now already has about 6 goals and looks set to be Coventry's top scorer this season. Mifsud told Setanta Sports News that he was 'delighted' to recieve the accolade, but felt if the players around him hadn't played so well, then he wouldn't have got his three goals, and he dedicated the place to the team.
PHILLIPS SIGNS FOR COVENTRY
Veteran striker Kevin Phillips today completed his ?190K move from West brom to Coventry. The striker was out of favour at West Brom and Craig Tough stated he was delighted at bagging the Baggie. Phillips, 34 signs a 2 year contract, and goes straight into the squad to face Stoke City in the second round of the Carling Cup. Phillips said he was relieved to get the deal done 2 days before the deadline.
treva
ICC Chairman
Only 190k for Phillips. What a bargain that is! You have a top quality striker for a very cheap price. Your strike force will trouble many defences, with Mifsud, Best, Adebola and now Phillips. A very good looking squad which could easily get you into the playoffs at least.
And also lets not forget leon McKenzie who I usually play on the wing, but got 2 goals in a match in the pre season, and Donovan Simmonds, very quick, but injured and hasn't played a game for me yet. I was expecting Him and kevin Thornton back quicker, but they haven't recovered yet, but back in the next few days. Thornton is a fantastic young Irish player with a huge future in real life. And in the game he is showing signs of greatness. I can see him being worth over £6mil in a couple of seasons. He will be in my first team plans for sure, but I have managed to get such a good squad with only buying a couple of players. And like you said, what a bargain! I never thought I'd get Kev but I thought I might was well use up the rest of m y budget and had a punt. Well worth it. I am off in a minute to do the cup game against Stoke. Remember last time we played them? 3-0. What a result!
29/8/07
Right, today we were concentrating on the Carling Cup, and we had a replica fixture of the Championship game we and Stoke played on the 18th. In that fixture, we had a terrific 3-0 win, however, I knew Stoke would be looking to get their own back, so a thorough and proffesional job was needed to carry out the win to get into the 3rd round. Again, a fantastic turnout, with 28000fans filling up the 32500 capacity Ricoh Arena. I have to applaud the fans, as they have turned this ground into a fortress, and no one will want to come here. Exactly what I wanted to help me do what is needed for this great club. Promotion, and we weren't the favourites, but boy are we going to try.
Transfer news. I am delighted to say that new signing Kevin Phillips will make his Coventry debut today, and will start up front, partnering Mifsud and Best upfront in a 4-3-1-2 formation. This is fantastic, as we all know that Kevin Phillips scores goals for fun, and I am sure his Coventry career won't be any different.
Injuries now. And I was disappointed again that young players Kevin Thornton and Donovan Simmonds still weren't ready to feature, an I couldn't believe they weren't ready, but injuries like these take time to heal and can reoccur if you force the players in too early, and we are very cautious of this happening.
Now to the team news. A bit of a shuffle from our 4-2 win over Palace. New signing Kevin Phillips comes up front with Best and Mifsud, whilst Isaac Osbourne drops to the bench, and forces veteran left back Marcus Hall out the side. Thats the only personnel change, but a formation re draw was needed. Its a very attacking side, as I love attacking football and I believ that attack is the best form of defence. And I definately thought we would get a result today.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw (c)---Ward---Borrowdale
-----------Tabb------M.Doyle------Pattison
----------------------------Mifsud
---------------------Best-------Phillips
Subs (5): Osbourne, Turner, S.Hughes, McKenzie, Cairo
I arrived at the Ricoh, and took my usual route straight down to the dressing room, again, teh kits all laid out to perfection, and Kevin Phillip's shirt caught my eye. the number 99 on teh back, and I though, what a buy. I always loved Phillips and the way he seemed be able to finish a chance no matter what angle or how hard the finish is. I was delighted that he had come to us for just 190 grand. Then I thought of the strike trio we had. bets, Mifsud, phillips, who could stop those three together? I don't think anyone can. But we were soon to find out, as the lads arrived, we had our usual chat, and walked out in front of a near full Ricoh crowd, chanting my name! I was humbled and wanted to do the best for the fans.
A shakey start. On 3 mins, a Borrowdale throw going straight to Stoke striker Richard Creswell, who made a 20 yard run, but his shot was smartly saved by keeper Andy Marshall. On 4 mins it was our turn for an attack, a Kevin Phillips ball controlled by Leon Best who put through to Mifsud, who shot through a crowd of players, but it was a comfortable save for Stoke keeper Simonsen. On 19 mins, Stoke broke the deadlock. We failed to clear and Cresswell finished comforatbly. Poor goal, but they all count. 1-0. And that was the last noteable action in a very boring first half. And that was a very boring half, I hoped the second half was going to be better. No changes at half time, I just got straight on with the game.
On 50 mins, soem great footwork from Philllips, who passed to Mifsud who's shot went over. It wasn't looking like our day. On 56 mins, some more dier defending, a ball over the top going over de Zeeuw's head straight to Cresswell who made it 2. Awful. 2-0. Something had to be done, so i brought Ben Turner on for De Zeeuw. On 70 mins, a great move down te right, a long ball from Ben Turner finding Best, who passed to Phillips, who flicked to Mifsud, but his shot was tipped over. After this, I brought debut boy Kevin Phillips off, who never really got started. He went off for Isaac Osbourne, who went into the centre of midfield, and Mifsud went up front. On 79 mins, Stoke defender Stephen Wright was sent off for holding Mifsud's shirt when he was clean through on goal. A glimmer of hope for the lads. I just hoped we could take advantage. Full time and what a disappointin performance. Disastrous defending cost us again, but I suppose it left us to concentrated on the league.
Coventry 0 - 2 Stoke
Marshall-6
D.Simpson-6
Borrowdale-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-6
Pattison-6
Phillips-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-7
Best-7
Mifsud-6
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
McKenzie-6
S.Hughes-unused sub
Osbourne-7
Turner-6
Man of the Match was Richard Cresswell
Right, today we were concentrating on the Carling Cup, and we had a replica fixture of the Championship game we and Stoke played on the 18th. In that fixture, we had a terrific 3-0 win, however, I knew Stoke would be looking to get their own back, so a thorough and proffesional job was needed to carry out the win to get into the 3rd round. Again, a fantastic turnout, with 28000fans filling up the 32500 capacity Ricoh Arena. I have to applaud the fans, as they have turned this ground into a fortress, and no one will want to come here. Exactly what I wanted to help me do what is needed for this great club. Promotion, and we weren't the favourites, but boy are we going to try.
Transfer news. I am delighted to say that new signing Kevin Phillips will make his Coventry debut today, and will start up front, partnering Mifsud and Best upfront in a 4-3-1-2 formation. This is fantastic, as we all know that Kevin Phillips scores goals for fun, and I am sure his Coventry career won't be any different.
Injuries now. And I was disappointed again that young players Kevin Thornton and Donovan Simmonds still weren't ready to feature, an I couldn't believe they weren't ready, but injuries like these take time to heal and can reoccur if you force the players in too early, and we are very cautious of this happening.
Now to the team news. A bit of a shuffle from our 4-2 win over Palace. New signing Kevin Phillips comes up front with Best and Mifsud, whilst Isaac Osbourne drops to the bench, and forces veteran left back Marcus Hall out the side. Thats the only personnel change, but a formation re draw was needed. Its a very attacking side, as I love attacking football and I believ that attack is the best form of defence. And I definately thought we would get a result today.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---de Zeeuw (c)---Ward---Borrowdale
-----------Tabb------M.Doyle------Pattison
----------------------------Mifsud
---------------------Best-------Phillips
Subs (5): Osbourne, Turner, S.Hughes, McKenzie, Cairo
I arrived at the Ricoh, and took my usual route straight down to the dressing room, again, teh kits all laid out to perfection, and Kevin Phillip's shirt caught my eye. the number 99 on teh back, and I though, what a buy. I always loved Phillips and the way he seemed be able to finish a chance no matter what angle or how hard the finish is. I was delighted that he had come to us for just 190 grand. Then I thought of the strike trio we had. bets, Mifsud, phillips, who could stop those three together? I don't think anyone can. But we were soon to find out, as the lads arrived, we had our usual chat, and walked out in front of a near full Ricoh crowd, chanting my name! I was humbled and wanted to do the best for the fans.
A shakey start. On 3 mins, a Borrowdale throw going straight to Stoke striker Richard Creswell, who made a 20 yard run, but his shot was smartly saved by keeper Andy Marshall. On 4 mins it was our turn for an attack, a Kevin Phillips ball controlled by Leon Best who put through to Mifsud, who shot through a crowd of players, but it was a comfortable save for Stoke keeper Simonsen. On 19 mins, Stoke broke the deadlock. We failed to clear and Cresswell finished comforatbly. Poor goal, but they all count. 1-0. And that was the last noteable action in a very boring first half. And that was a very boring half, I hoped the second half was going to be better. No changes at half time, I just got straight on with the game.
On 50 mins, soem great footwork from Philllips, who passed to Mifsud who's shot went over. It wasn't looking like our day. On 56 mins, some more dier defending, a ball over the top going over de Zeeuw's head straight to Cresswell who made it 2. Awful. 2-0. Something had to be done, so i brought Ben Turner on for De Zeeuw. On 70 mins, a great move down te right, a long ball from Ben Turner finding Best, who passed to Phillips, who flicked to Mifsud, but his shot was tipped over. After this, I brought debut boy Kevin Phillips off, who never really got started. He went off for Isaac Osbourne, who went into the centre of midfield, and Mifsud went up front. On 79 mins, Stoke defender Stephen Wright was sent off for holding Mifsud's shirt when he was clean through on goal. A glimmer of hope for the lads. I just hoped we could take advantage. Full time and what a disappointin performance. Disastrous defending cost us again, but I suppose it left us to concentrated on the league.
Coventry 0 - 2 Stoke
Marshall-6
D.Simpson-6
Borrowdale-7
Ward-7
de Zeeuw-6
Pattison-6
Phillips-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-7
Best-7
Mifsud-6
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
McKenzie-6
S.Hughes-unused sub
Osbourne-7
Turner-6
Man of the Match was Richard Cresswell
treva
ICC Chairman
Sounds like a poor performance. Nobody really did well, but at least it was the carling cup. Still, your bound to have a few losses every now and again at least.
Yeah, we just weren't at the races. And as you can tell by the size of the match write up, it was a very boring game. But we need to gel again before we move on. news time!
Millwall have completed the signing of coventry right back David Mcnamee, Tough was disappointed to let the Scotsman go, as his current right back Danny Simpson is only a loanee. Tough says he will try to draft in a right back in January. McNamee thanks Coventry and its fans for a great time, but it was the right move for him. Transfer window is now over.
My first monthly overview coming up later tonight or tomorrow.
AUGUST 2007 OVERVIEW: COVENTRY CITY
So, it was my first month of the proper stuff in charge. And it wasn't a bad month either. Started poorly with a loss at Hull, but the players bucked up their ideas and had a good crack at the month. Well done to them!
Hull 2 - 1 Coventry
It was my first league game in charge, and it wasn't pretty. the defence was awful, and we couldn't hit a barn door with a banjo. Bryan Hughes and veteran Dean Windass fro the home side, adn Elliott Ward for us. To add insult to injury, Julian Gray got injured and it was the only game he played in in the whole month.
Coventry 3 - 0 Stoke
Definately our best performance of the month, an my first home game in charge. The defence listened to what i said and we cracked in 3 goals, 1 from Leon Best, and 2 from Michael Mifsud. It was the start of a great run for him. This is when the fans started to warm towards me. And I owed this win to them after a disappointing start.
Coventry 2 - 1 Leyton Orient
Our first cup game in the campaign, our first Carling Cup game, and it was anthing but a smooth ride, but we got there in teh end, thanks to Michael Mifsud, with 3 in 3 for the season and Michael Doyle, who avoided the upset. Very proud of the players for not unerestimating the opposition.
Crystal Palace 2 - 4 Coventry
this game norrowly missed out to teh Stoke game in match of the month. Matty Pattison's debut, and he had a fantastic game, scoring one and setting up the other 3. But Michael Mifsud grabbed the headlines, by scoring a fantastic hat trick and taking his tally to 6 in 4 in all competitions. What a start for him.
Coventry 0 - 2 Stoke
An awful performance. We saved the worst until last. A very boring game and Stoke striker Richard Cresswell ran rings around the defence and came up with 2 goals, in a shocking game, and that was our short carling Cup run ended. So both our best and worst performances came against Stoke this month, but allround, not a bad month.
League table:
MCNAMEE SEALS MILLWALL MOVE
Millwall have completed the signing of coventry right back David Mcnamee, Tough was disappointed to let the Scotsman go, as his current right back Danny Simpson is only a loanee. Tough says he will try to draft in a right back in January. McNamee thanks Coventry and its fans for a great time, but it was the right move for him. Transfer window is now over.
My first monthly overview coming up later tonight or tomorrow.
AUGUST 2007 OVERVIEW: COVENTRY CITY
So, it was my first month of the proper stuff in charge. And it wasn't a bad month either. Started poorly with a loss at Hull, but the players bucked up their ideas and had a good crack at the month. Well done to them!
Hull 2 - 1 Coventry
It was my first league game in charge, and it wasn't pretty. the defence was awful, and we couldn't hit a barn door with a banjo. Bryan Hughes and veteran Dean Windass fro the home side, adn Elliott Ward for us. To add insult to injury, Julian Gray got injured and it was the only game he played in in the whole month.
Coventry 3 - 0 Stoke
Definately our best performance of the month, an my first home game in charge. The defence listened to what i said and we cracked in 3 goals, 1 from Leon Best, and 2 from Michael Mifsud. It was the start of a great run for him. This is when the fans started to warm towards me. And I owed this win to them after a disappointing start.
Coventry 2 - 1 Leyton Orient
Our first cup game in the campaign, our first Carling Cup game, and it was anthing but a smooth ride, but we got there in teh end, thanks to Michael Mifsud, with 3 in 3 for the season and Michael Doyle, who avoided the upset. Very proud of the players for not unerestimating the opposition.
Crystal Palace 2 - 4 Coventry
this game norrowly missed out to teh Stoke game in match of the month. Matty Pattison's debut, and he had a fantastic game, scoring one and setting up the other 3. But Michael Mifsud grabbed the headlines, by scoring a fantastic hat trick and taking his tally to 6 in 4 in all competitions. What a start for him.
Coventry 0 - 2 Stoke
An awful performance. We saved the worst until last. A very boring game and Stoke striker Richard Cresswell ran rings around the defence and came up with 2 goals, in a shocking game, and that was our short carling Cup run ended. So both our best and worst performances came against Stoke this month, but allround, not a bad month.
League table:
Last edited:
1/9/07
Today, after a disappointing Carling Cup display against Stoke, it was back to the league. We were coming off the back of to very impressive straight league wins, against Stoke and Crystal Palace, and we were confident of a win over Norwich today at the Ricoh. Another near full house for the game, and the fans were in high expectation, as Norwich currently sit rock bottom as they haven't got any points yet and had just the one goal, compared ot the 7 put past them so far early on in the league so far.
Injuries now. We still have 4 players out on the treatment table, Adebola, Gray, Thornton and Simmonds all still struggling for fitness, and Thornton and Simmonds are yet to feature under me.
Now to the team news. I felt the change of formation last game against Stoke, wasn't teh cleverest thing to to in restrospect, and I have decided to go for a simple 4-4-2 formation. So, I dropped leon best to the bench, and the attack went with Kevin Phillips and Michael Mifsud and de Zeeuw is replaced by Ben Turner as I thought I needed some young fresh legs in my defence today. Also Isaac Osbourne started in the centre of midfield.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---Turner---Ward---Borrowdale
Tabb------M.Doyle(c)---Osbourne---Pattison
--------------------Mifsud-------Phillips
Subs (5): Best, Turner, S.Hughes, McKenzie, Cairo
I arrived at the Ricoh, and I made my way to the dressing room as always. Waited for the players to arrive and gave them the usual chat, about what I wanted. They understood and walked out and did a pre match warm up. I hoped to make it 3 on the bounce., and I was sure we could do it.
A boring start, no chances coming inside the first 10 mins, and the fans were getting aggetated. And then Mifsud got the ball. A fantastic mazy run, skipping 3 challenges, taking a thumping shot which was parried by David Marshall in the Norwich goal, and the rebound was forced in by Jay Tabb. I was jumpin for joy, and so were the fans. 1-0. On 26 mins, former Sky Blues man Darren Huckerby lost the ball to Jay Tabb, and put a terrific ball in to Kevin Phillips who went inches away from his first Coventry goal. On 30 mins, Norwich had their first chance, a Strihavka shot going acres wide. And that was the last noteable action of the half. I was happy we had the lead, but was disappointed that we didn't create that many opportunities. Hopefully that would change in the second half. At half time I made one change, Kevin Phillips off for Leon Best.
Another boring start, this time to the second half. Nothing happening, and I shouted at the players to create something! On 52 mins, a run from Norwich defender Brellier, went through the defence and his shot was tipped over by Coventry keeper Andy Marshall (not to be confused with David Marshall in teh Norwich goal!). On 63 mins, Mifsud ran through again, put the ball through to Doyle, who finished, but to his dismay, the flag went up. Still 1-0. On 65 mins, Isaac Osbourne had a free kick just outside the area, his shot was well saved, and Norwich hacked it clear. On 66 mins, Brellier got through again, and his shot was fantastically saved by Andy Marshall. Great save. On that I made 2 changes, Osbourne and Pattison off for McKenzie and Stephen Hughes. On 91 mins, leon McKenzie was played through by Jay Tabb, and his shot was brilliantly saved, and a corner was gained. On 92 mins, Mifsud fantastically intercepted a Brellier pass, put it through to Leon Best who made sure of the points. 2-0, and I was chuffed. And full time came, and we had won the game!
So that was our 3rd league win in a row, and another clean sheet. I was very happy, and congratulated the players and off we went. And we also congratulated Stephen Hughes on his 100th appearance for the club.
Coventry 2 - 0 Norwich
Tabb, Best
Marshall-8
D.Simpson-7
Borrowdale-7
Ward-7
Turner-7
Pattison-7
Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-8
Phillips-6
Mifsud-8
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
McKenzie-6
S.Hughes-7
Best-7
de Zeeuw-unused sub
Man of the Match was Andy Marshall
Today, after a disappointing Carling Cup display against Stoke, it was back to the league. We were coming off the back of to very impressive straight league wins, against Stoke and Crystal Palace, and we were confident of a win over Norwich today at the Ricoh. Another near full house for the game, and the fans were in high expectation, as Norwich currently sit rock bottom as they haven't got any points yet and had just the one goal, compared ot the 7 put past them so far early on in the league so far.
Injuries now. We still have 4 players out on the treatment table, Adebola, Gray, Thornton and Simmonds all still struggling for fitness, and Thornton and Simmonds are yet to feature under me.
Now to the team news. I felt the change of formation last game against Stoke, wasn't teh cleverest thing to to in restrospect, and I have decided to go for a simple 4-4-2 formation. So, I dropped leon best to the bench, and the attack went with Kevin Phillips and Michael Mifsud and de Zeeuw is replaced by Ben Turner as I thought I needed some young fresh legs in my defence today. Also Isaac Osbourne started in the centre of midfield.
Here was the starting XI:
--------------------------Marshall
D.Simpson---Turner---Ward---Borrowdale
Tabb------M.Doyle(c)---Osbourne---Pattison
--------------------Mifsud-------Phillips
Subs (5): Best, Turner, S.Hughes, McKenzie, Cairo
I arrived at the Ricoh, and I made my way to the dressing room as always. Waited for the players to arrive and gave them the usual chat, about what I wanted. They understood and walked out and did a pre match warm up. I hoped to make it 3 on the bounce., and I was sure we could do it.
A boring start, no chances coming inside the first 10 mins, and the fans were getting aggetated. And then Mifsud got the ball. A fantastic mazy run, skipping 3 challenges, taking a thumping shot which was parried by David Marshall in the Norwich goal, and the rebound was forced in by Jay Tabb. I was jumpin for joy, and so were the fans. 1-0. On 26 mins, former Sky Blues man Darren Huckerby lost the ball to Jay Tabb, and put a terrific ball in to Kevin Phillips who went inches away from his first Coventry goal. On 30 mins, Norwich had their first chance, a Strihavka shot going acres wide. And that was the last noteable action of the half. I was happy we had the lead, but was disappointed that we didn't create that many opportunities. Hopefully that would change in the second half. At half time I made one change, Kevin Phillips off for Leon Best.
Another boring start, this time to the second half. Nothing happening, and I shouted at the players to create something! On 52 mins, a run from Norwich defender Brellier, went through the defence and his shot was tipped over by Coventry keeper Andy Marshall (not to be confused with David Marshall in teh Norwich goal!). On 63 mins, Mifsud ran through again, put the ball through to Doyle, who finished, but to his dismay, the flag went up. Still 1-0. On 65 mins, Isaac Osbourne had a free kick just outside the area, his shot was well saved, and Norwich hacked it clear. On 66 mins, Brellier got through again, and his shot was fantastically saved by Andy Marshall. Great save. On that I made 2 changes, Osbourne and Pattison off for McKenzie and Stephen Hughes. On 91 mins, leon McKenzie was played through by Jay Tabb, and his shot was brilliantly saved, and a corner was gained. On 92 mins, Mifsud fantastically intercepted a Brellier pass, put it through to Leon Best who made sure of the points. 2-0, and I was chuffed. And full time came, and we had won the game!
So that was our 3rd league win in a row, and another clean sheet. I was very happy, and congratulated the players and off we went. And we also congratulated Stephen Hughes on his 100th appearance for the club.
Coventry 2 - 0 Norwich
Tabb, Best
Marshall-8
D.Simpson-7
Borrowdale-7
Ward-7
Turner-7
Pattison-7
Osbourne-7
M.Doyle-7
Tabb-8
Phillips-6
Mifsud-8
-----------
Cairo-unused sub
McKenzie-6
S.Hughes-7
Best-7
de Zeeuw-unused sub
Man of the Match was Andy Marshall
- Status
