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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Paul MacInnes at the CBS Arena

Rudoni double sends Coventry past Middlesbrough and into the playoffs

Jack Rudoni (left) celebrates with Brandon Thomas-Asante after his second goal of the afternoon sealed victory over Boro and a top-six place.
Jack Rudoni (left) celebrates with Brandon Thomas-Asante after his second goal of the afternoon sealed victory over Boro and a top-six place. Photograph: Matthew Lewis/Getty Images

Frank Lampard describes himself as a “small part of what’s going on” at Coventry and amid a raucous atmosphere it was clear that a place in the Championship playoffs was a collective effort. But Lampard made sure his small part was a significant one; making decisive interventions to dictate the direction of the game, as he has throughout a season of striking achievement.

Coventry were 17th and two points off the relegation places when Lampard was “given a chance” by owner, Doug King, in November after 18 months out of the game. 16 victories in 31 league games later and they finished the season in fifth place. A two-legged tie against Sunderland awaits, with the home leg first next Friday, but there was little celebration from Lampard, who has an eye on more success yet.

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