Mark Robins rues display of Bristol Rovers goalkeeper Jordi Van Stappershoef
Posted Monday, January 06, 2020 by PA
Coventry boss Mark Robins blamed poor finishing and an inspired display from Bristol Rovers goalkeeper Jordi Van Stappershoef for his side’s failure to capitalise fully on an impressive FA Cup third-round performance.
The Sky Blues had to twice come from behind as they drew 2-2 away from home to secure a replay.
But Robins felt his side should have been in Monday’s fourth-round draw outright.
Robins said: “There was only one possible choice for man-of-the-match. We should have been more clinical at times, but their keeper was outstanding.
“He is a big lad to get past, but there were opportunities when we shouldn’t have given him a chance to save and that is frustrating.
“We played some good football for much of the game and caused them a lot of problems, but I am very disappointed with both the goals we conceded.
“We contrived to hand Rovers an early lead on a plate with the penalty and then conceded from a set-piece, which is always frustrating.
“But the players showed great spirit to twice come from behind and we always looked a threat going forward.
“Rovers are a decent side, so to come here and create so many opportunities was encouraging. We are still in the competition and look forward to the replay at our place.”
Jonson Clarke-Harris fired Rovers in front against his old club with a sixth-minute penalty after Kyle McFadzean brought down Cameron Hargreaves.
Liam Walsh drew the Sky Blues level in the 31st minute with a low drive from 25 yards, but seconds later Tony Craig headed in a Liam Sercombe free-kick to put Rovers back in front.
But Rovers could not hold on as Craig volleyed a 53rd-minute cross into his own net.
Rovers boss Ben Garner said: “We looked good going forward, but need a stronger structure when we lose the ball. Coventry are a very good side, but they played through us a bit too easily at times.
“I thought Jordi might have done better with their first goal, but after that he was brilliant.
“He was so quick off his line for the last save and that is something we have been working on with him.
“I am hoping to make a couple of signings this week to increase our attacking options and there may well be more transfer activity after that.
“But I saw a lot of positives today. There hasn’t been much time to work with the players, but there we clear signs of them taking things on board.
“It was an entertaining game for the supporters and a fair result because both teams put a lot into it.”
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