FOOTBALL: NEW manager Lee Knibbs led Coventry Sphinx to a second successive league victory against Rocester on Saturday.
The win proved enough to move Sphinx into the top six of the Midland Football League Premier Division, and leaves the club 11 points short of table topping Coleshill with one game in hand.
A pair of clinical finishes from James Towers proved to be enough as Sphinx earned the points, though the result could’ve been much different with Rocester having their chances while a controversial goal line clearance decision went the way of the hosts.
Though Knibbs’ men eventually earned the points, the game didn’t all go their way.
Rocester took the lead on 13 minutes when an accurate strike from Joe Brockley found its way into the back of the net.
The visiting side were quick to press for a second, and were controversially denied when Stringfellow cleared the ball off the line – colliding with the post in the process.
Sphinx showed signs of settling into the game moments before half-time when Towers’ low header was well saved.
A half-time team talk appeared to work wonders when the home side immediately levelled the game following the re-start.
A cross-field ball from Woodward to McGarrity found Towers in the box, who comfortably slotted home Sphinx’s first goal of the game.
Dakouri proved to be the catalyst needed for Sphinx’s second goal on 74 minutes.
Dakouri powered through the centre of midfield before passing to Woodward on the left of the penalty area.
Woodward’s cross found Towers at the back post, and the forward made no mistake to score his second of the game to put Sphinx in front.
Despite late pressure, Sphinx held out to secure a crucial three points.
Lee Knibbs’ men are next in action on Saturday, October 28, at Sphinx Drive when they host Shawbury United.
Picture: Marcus Robinson.