COVENTRY City manager Chris Coleman said his side's Championship mentality almost played a vital part in the latter stages of last night's 3-2 extra-time Carling Cup defeat to Newcastle United.

The City boss said he was aware his side would have to pick their moments to counter Newcastle and soak up a bit of pressure.

But he added the kind of work ethic necessary for the Championship served them well towards the end of last night's clash and could have produced a very different result.

"We chose our moments very carefully when we tried to counter because with a team like Newcastle, if you go too early they will exploit you," he said.

"That's why Newcastle got a little bit tired towards the end and in extra time we created chances to get a goal.

"Shay Given was called to make some excellent saves and but for him and his crossbar it might have been a bit different."

Coleman also praised both his side and Sky Blues supporters for their efforts after City pushed Kevin Keegan's Premier League outfit all the way, the Coventry manager saying he was delighted with his players' endeavour and the riotous support provided by the Sky Blue faithful.

"Full credit to all of them. We kept pushing and the supporters kept urging us on and when we got the second one it was fantastic so definitely full credit to everyone involved."

For the full post-match interview on Sky Blues World click here.

Also check www.ccfc.co.uk this afternoon for Scott Dann's post-match interview with Sky Blues World and his opinion on Gunnarsson's long throw.