Lampard hails Awoniyi impact after Coventry City cup win

Frank Lampard praised Taiwo Awoniyi after the Nigeria international scored and provided an assist on his first start for Coventry City in their 4-2 Carabao Cup second-round victory over Plymouth on Tuesday.

Awoniyi opened the scoring after only three minutes, finishing a move created by a sublime flick from Ghana Black Stars midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi. The forward then turned provider moments later, setting up Jack Rudoni to make it 2-0 in the fifth minute.

The result sent Coventry City through to the third round, although Plymouth – who play in the lower division – fought back after falling two goals behind.

Oliver Irow pulled one back in the 21st minute when he cut inside Joel Latibeaudiere before beating goalkeeper Dan Bentley, who was unable to keep out the effort.

Plymouth completed their comeback early in the second half. Substitute Xavier Ameachi dispossessed Liam Kitching and finished the move to bring the visitors level.

Coventry City responded after Ephron Mason-Clark was introduced on the hour. He restored the home side’s advantage with a well-worked tap-in.

Victor Torp then secured the victory with a superb penalty into the top corner after Brandon Thomas-Asante was fouled inside the area.

Awoniyi’s performance was particularly encouraging given that he is still building his match fitness after joining Coventry City. The striker had featured for Nottingham Forest during pre-season, but Lampard noted that his playing time had been more limited in the final 10 days before his move.

Asked whether Awoniyi was still working towards full sharpness, Lampard said: “I think so. He played some good pre-season minutes at Forest, although probably not so much in his last sort of 10 days before coming to us.

“So it was good to get him on the pitch at the Emirates and then he starts the game tonight (Tuesday) and he gets his goal and an assist, and yeah, he’ll be getting fit at this point but I thought we saw the qualities that we brought him here for.”

Awoniyi had already been given minutes at the Emirates before making his first start for Coventry City in the cup. His goal and assist against Plymouth provided an immediate contribution as Lampard’s side advanced.

Coventry City will return to Premier League action on Saturday, when they host fellow newly promoted side Hull City.

The two teams have had contrasting starts to life in the English top flight. Coventry City began their campaign with a 3-0 defeat by champions Arsenal, while Hull City made a striking impression by beating Manchester United 2-0.

Lampard will hope Awoniyi’s display gives the striker confidence as Coventry City prepare for their next league fixture.