Underrated midfield star, Frank Lampard’s secret weapon and more – five things learned from Coventry City vs Portsmouth

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Coventry City secured a crucial win against Portsmouth at the CBS Arena in a potentially pivotal night for Frank Lampard’s side in the race for a play-off place.

Pundits predicted a victory for Cov following the 4-1 win for Portsmouth back in December. John Mousinho admitted Coventry are the better side as well.

They needed to bounce back after the disappointing defeat to Burnley left fans frustrated and they will feel a whole lot better after victory in yet another vital game in the play-off race.

Lampard knew an aggressive game plan was required, and he was proven to be right for Coventry against a resurgent and resolute Pompey side on the night after no goals for either side until the 94th minute of the game.

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Ben Sheaf’s importance is underrated

We backed Ben Sheaf to start the contest, but Lampard instead opted for Victor Torp. However, the midfielder came on in the 22nd minute to take his place and showcased why he is such a calming and controlling influence.

The opening exchanges were where the visitors were on top before Sheaf’s introduction. He managed to instill control and stability on proceedings alongside Matt Grimes. Cov may have lacked thrust to score freely, but they were the foundation for many attacks and keeping Pompey pinned.

It could and perhaps should be the go-to for Lampard going forward, with Torp out. Josh Eccles is the other primary option but Sheaf’s quality is undeniable at this level.

Josh Murphy and Colby Bishop are the key to Pompey’s survival

Josh Murphy has been the signing of the season and he could be the difference between survival and relegation alongside his attacking partner.

Colby Bishop’s inspiring story continuing will also be vital to their success. All of the best moments from Pompey’s limited attacks in the game came down the left or through playing off of Bishop.

They must remain fit and firing to stay up. Their seven league goals apiece are certain to be added to in the final five games and they were almost able to sneak a goal on a number of occasions at the CBS.

• READ MORE: Championship play-off dates, fixtures, and teams in Premier League promotion mix

Coventry need more attacking thrust

Although they have been fairly free-scoring under Lampard, there are particular types of opponent where Cov need answers. Jamie Paterson provided that for the home side, and their bench will be vital in the final games.

That could also be switching Haji Wright to a wide role in order to accommodate Ellis Simms as more of a focal point, but they lacked impetus towards the final third until a moment of inspiration late on sealed victory.

In a scrappy affair, they needed another forward outlet or creative player. Despite the industry in moments from Jack Rudoni and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto. Lampard may need to tweak things after a struggle against sturdy opposition, albeit they will be delighted by Paterson’s impact in such a limited time frame.

Portsmouth are not out of danger yet

Portsmouth have still got work to do to ensure safety in the Championship, having been promoted back to this level for the first time since 2012 and needing points in key upcoming games after a hammer blow late on.

There are still plenty of twists and turns to come in the race to survive in the run-in, but Pompey may have to rely on their strong home form in order to secure the required points.

Away from home, only Plymouth Argyle have won fewer points so far. It puts pressure on their games at Fratton Park currently. A handful of extra points are required to survive from here, but even with a backs to the wall display, they couldn’t finish the job against Cov’s relentless late pressure.

• READ MORE: Five of the best Championship play-off finals include Reading nightmare and a Charlie Adam screamer

Bobby Thomas is key to Coventry’s play-off hopes

Bobby Thomas’ head is a magnet for the football, be that from open play or set-pieces. Even if he doesn’t win every aerial, he commands attention and players to pick him up. He could be Lampard’s secret weapon in this battle.

He has scored plenty of crucial goals of late in 2025 during Cov’s impressive form. But it goes beyond that. In a game which is low-margin, he has the ability to change it via a header for himself or a teammate.

That will be vital in the run-in for securing the required points but it could also be in their play-off campaign as well. Cov struggled in open play, but managed to find Thomas on numerous occasions. Only three players produced more xG in the game than him and he was a constant threat.