Coventry 3-1 Cardiff City

Cardiff went down to Coventry to end the season on a low note in 11th place but without a win in the last 7 games of the campaign. Cameron Jerome was ruled out with a knee injury sustained during training and his place up front was taken by Guylain Ndumbu-Nsungu and Joe Ledley moved to left back to accomodate Willie Boland’s return in midfield against his former club.
Coventry, impressive at home all year, took an early lead on 7 minutes through the reborn Stern John enjoying an outstanding ending to the season. The lively Gary McSheffrey sent in a looping cross from the left that Glann Loovens failed to intercept and John was on hand to slot home from 6 yards. The early setback hampered Cardiff but they came back at Coventry with Parry and Nsungu running at the reshuffled Coventry defence. City equalised on 20 minutes following good play by Nsungu on the right setting up Steven Thompson to slide in from a few yards. The game was even and both sides had half-chances before half time but a draw was a fair reflection of the first half. Cardiff started the second half extremely well following Dave Jones’ team talk and the introduction of Neal Ardley at right back, City had the majority of the possession and 10 minutes into the second half a fine run and shot by Jason Koumas saw the ball hit the post and bounce back only for Steve Thompson to hit the rebound over. Cardiff continued to dominate until the 64th minute when Adebola scored against the run of play for Coventry. Curtis McDonald made his first team debut but Cardiff couldn’t get the equaliser they deserved. Insult was added to the scoreline in the last minute when veteran Dennis Wise headed in Whing’s cross to end the contest.
The scoreline was harsh on City who did enough to deserve a draw but as to how many of these players will be seen in Cardiff colours next season, only time will tell.