Frank Lampard insists Coventry deserved point after narrow Man City defeat

Frank Lampard believes Coventry City deserved at least a point after producing an impressive performance in their narrow 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

The newly-promoted Sky Blues frustrated Enzo Maresca’s side for long periods, only for Erling Haaland’s header to ultimately separate the teams and maintain City’s perfect start to the season.

Despite leaving Manchester empty-handed, Lampard was encouraged by the progress his team showed against the Premier League champions.

Coventry arrived at the Etihad as significant underdogs but remained competitive throughout the contest.

Lampard felt his players grew into the game and did enough to deserve something from their performance.

“I don't think we deserved to lose,” Lampard said.

“As the game went on we grew, of course they created chances but the boys did great. I'm disappointed we didn't get what we deserved which was a point.”

Coventry have already faced two of the strongest teams in the division following their promotion, and Lampard believes there has been noticeable improvement since their earlier meeting with Arsenal.

“We have played the two toughest teams on paper,” he added. “All you can do is control the performance.

“The boys grew and the pressure we had in periods of the second half was great progression from Arsenal two weeks ago.”

Manchester City dominated possession with 78 per cent of the ball, but Coventry’s defensive organisation prevented that control from developing into a comfortable victory.

Lampard was particularly impressed by the structure of his side and highlighted Ethan Pinnock’s contribution.

“There was a real organisation to the team, Ethan came in and was great,” he said.

“There were not too many moments when we were on edge. I am really pleased with our lads and the fans showed what they thought of the performance.”

The response from the travelling supporters reflected a performance that offered encouragement despite the result.

Coventry’s defensive work was eventually undone by Haaland, who headed home Antoine Semenyo’s cross to score the decisive goal.

City had been forced into a late change before kick-off when Nico O'Reilly suffered an injury during the warm-up, resulting in deadline-day signing Enzo Fernandez being promoted into the starting XI.

Fernandez subsequently played a part in the move that led to Haaland’s winner.

Elliot Anderson was also central to City's control of the match, attempting 155 passes as the hosts dominated possession.

For all City's control, Coventry had opportunities to secure the result Lampard felt they deserved.

Taiwo Awoniyi failed to hit the target after finding himself clean through, while Ellis Simms was denied late in the game by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Those moments left Lampard frustrated but also provided evidence that Coventry can threaten even the strongest opposition in the division.

The manager is aware, however, that their survival prospects will ultimately be determined by performances against teams closer to them in the table.

“We should take a lot from these three games,” Lampard said.

“Our season will be defined more by the games against likes of Hull, which was disappointing, but we have plenty more games to come.”

Coventry must now turn an encouraging performance into Premier League points as Lampard continues adapting his side to the demands of the top flight.

After already facing Arsenal and Manchester City, the Sky Blues will have opportunities against opponents where expectations are very different.

Lampard has acknowledged those fixtures are likely to have a greater influence on Coventry’s season, making their next challenge an important opportunity to build on the organisation and resilience displayed at the Etihad.