Frank Lampard struggles to hold back emotions after Coventry City’s heartbreaking play-off defeat

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Frank Lampard looked like a broken man as his Coventry City side were beaten in the dying seconds of their play-off semi-final against Sunderland.

Dan Ballard’s header in the 120th minute was the difference between the two as Regis Le Bris’ side won 3-2 on aggregate.

Ephron Mason-Clark’s effort in normal time meant that the two sides needed an extra 30 minutes to decide which one of Coventry or Sunderland would be facing Sheffield United at Wembley.

In the end, it was the Black Cats and while Le Bris was left frustrated despite Sunderland’s win, Lampard was left to ponder a gut-wrenching defeat.

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Frank Lampard distraught after Coventry City loss

Speaking after the game, Lampard spoke to Sky Sports and looked lost for words when trying to describe the emotions he was feeling after the loss at the Stadium of Light.

Trying to make sense of what happened, the Coventry manager said: “I’m so disappointed for the players, the club, the owner and the fans but I can’t be disappointed with the way they played.

“I think we dominated at home, dominated large spells of this game tonight. From 17th in the league, competing with the top teams in this division. The players have been brilliant in the second half of the season.

“It’s cruel, but the fans go home proud of their players.”

Frank Lampard is right, Coventry should be proud

When Coventry made the decision to appoint Lampard as their manager, languishing in 17th, nobody anticipated a top half finish – let alone finishing in the top six.

A run of 17 wins from 33 games in all competitions is a remarkable achievement for the Sky Blues, coupled with 10 defeats and four draws.

That sort of form is the level required to get promotion and had Lampard been in charge the whole season, who knows where they would’ve finished.

They’ll have time to go away and lick their wounds, but the Sky Blues have every right to look back at this campaign and deem it a success.