WE NEED to start winning more home games – the words of Sky Blues boss Steven Pressley after watching his side slip to their fifth draw at home since returning to the Ricoh Arena in September.
The Sky Blues have failed to win in front of their own supporters in the league October as the slide down League One continues.
Pressley’s side had the play-offs firmly in their sights just three months ago but a series of disappointing performances has seen the club drop to within just three points of the relegation zone.
They twice held the lead on Saturday against Rochdale thanks to goals from debutants Sanmi Odelusi Dominic Samuel but allowed the visitors seal a point following a disappointing second half performance.
“There’s no doubt we need to win more of our home games,” said Pressley. “We desperately want to win games of football
“I think the ingredients are there. I said that to the group last week that we have to start winning at home but it was a step in the right direction.
“We looked like we were capable of scoring goals. We scored two but we created a number of opportunities so I was really pleased with the first half performance.
“They changed at half-time and they didn’t become so direct as they normally play and their two balancing players got more possession off the ball and forced us back.
“But the players worked exceptionally hard and I think in terms of excitement it was far more like the Coventry City I want to see and there’s a number of things to build from.
“We can work hard again this week again with the two players that have come in and get absolutely in tune with exactly what we want. I’m confident we can start winning games again.”
Pressley handed full debuts to loan duo Odelusi and Samuel and the likeable Scot was pleased with the impact they made.
He added: “I said the big thing about the team and the ingredient we’ve been missing has been speed and I thought that was in great evidence on Saturday.
“Samuel’s finish was sensational. It was terrific play from Frank (Nouble) to put Jim (O’Brien) through and it was a wonderful finish.
“He had a great opportunity in the second half as well and I thought Sanmi (Odelusi) did really well but I think after 55-60 minutes he really tired and he didn’t manage to get the press at times what we’re looking for.
“But I’m really pleased with both players’ debuts and there are a lot of positives to build on.
“I think the supporters appreciated the effort of the group. When they see effort, when they see intent and when they see some excitement then generally they go home happy.”
