Manager Russell Slade on the Sky Blues' victory against Brighton in the Checkatrade Trophy...
Russell Slade has challenged his players to continue the momentum after victory against Brighton & Hove Albion Under-21s at the Ricoh.
The Sky Blues progressed to the last eight of the competition after a comfortable 3-0 victory, with goals from Ruben Lameiras, George Thomas and Ryan Haynes.
With an important League fixture against Chesterfield at the weekend, Slade is hoping his players can continue their good start under his stewardship. “Of course I wish it was three points, but a win is a win and we progress into the next round of the competition,” He said.
“It is about momentum and that is three unbeaten now if you want to take the positives from the situation. I’ve also managed to play a lot of players tonight that I haven’t seen from the other games.
“We’ve performed very well tonight and been able to rest certain individuals and not over exert others with an important fixture coming up at the weekend. We had a few little niggles and injuries beforehand so that is good for us.
Slade reserved praise for midfielder George Thomas, who scored the second goal of the game after a good team move involving Jodi Jones and Stuart Beavon. The 56-year old admitted he has been impressed with the Welshman since his arrival at the club.
“What about George Thomas, he never stopped did he? He has got a great work ethic and he is making things happen for his teammates, I was really pleased with his performance.
“I could have done with getting him off really, I needed a fourth sub to perhaps protect him a little bit but he has done so well. I also thought Dion Kelly-Evans was fantastic tonight.
He added: “Your match winners and flair players are important, but the bread and butter players, those who are committed and willing to do the hard part of the game are important, and they did that tonight.”