COVENTRY City boss Chris Coleman praised his side's nitty gritty qualities as they ground out a second consecutive win to propel themselves into the top ten of the Championship table.

The Sky Blues stayed just six points outside the play-off places after Gary Deegan bagged the only goal of the 1-0 win over Queens Park Rangers at the Ricoh Arena with his first strike in City colours.

Coleman said: "I told the lads it would not be a pretty second half but that if we stuck our guns we would get the three points and we did.

"Credit to Mick Harford because QPR did their homework and we found it hard to break them down in the second half but credit to our lads as well for sticking to the task and getting another three points.

The City boss also said the Sky Blues' recent run of results, which has seen them win six and lose just two of their last 11 games, was breeding a feel-good atmosphere both inside and outside the dressing room.

"There are alot of positive things happening at Coventry City at the moment and there is plenty to smile about," he added.

"It's no coincidence that we are where we are in the league and although we know there will be a few more twists and turns before the season is over, we are chipping away at the league and heading in the right direction."

Coleman also singled out goalscorer Deegan and 'keeper Keiren Westwood as well as new loan signing and debutant Freddie Sears for praise.

"Gary is only going to get better and he is starting to get to grips with this league and Keiren made an outstanding save in the second half just showing what a good 'keeper he is.

"Freddie Sears also did very well for us when he came on. He is only 20 years old so it's all infront of him but he showed great awareness in the later stages of the game and I think he will do well for us whilst he is here."

Check out Chris Coleman's FULL post-match interview on Sky Blues Player NOW!!!