Coventry City’s Lampard praises debut match scorers

Having assumed leadership of Coventry City just two days prior to the match against Cardiff City, new manager Frank Lampard expressed satisfaction with certain aspects of his team’s display in his inaugural game. He specifically lauded his two goal-scorers following the Sky Blues’ 2-2 home draw with Cardiff City. Winger Ephron Mason-Clark effectively seized his opportunity, securing Coventry’s initial equalizer as the team twice recovered from a deficit. Lampard also highly commended Victor Torp for his calm execution in converting a late penalty to even the score. Commenting on the pressure of penalty kicks, Lampard stated: “I took penalties myself, so I understand what it can be like – and the time it takes. There’s always quite a lot of kerfuffle and the penalty spot being roughed up. It’s not easy to keep calm and he took it brilliantly.” Speaking to BBC CWR, Lampard acknowledged the team’s mixed display, saying: “There was some good, some not so good in our performance, but it was only to be expected two days in, with where we are in the league – and we want to get better.” A significant decision by Lampard involved granting Ephron-Clark only his fourth league start for the Sky Blues, and his first in nearly two months, having predominantly appeared as a substitute until then. He further commented on Ephron-Clark’s progress, stating: “It’s not easy settling into a division above, so he does need time but he also needs to earn the right to play minutes regularly, so I’m pleased with him. He understands more now of what we want from him in running in behind. He’s got a lot of raw talent – and we want to get to work with it really quickly.”