Frank Onyeka marked his first appearance for Coventry City with an assured display as Frank Lampard’s side beat Middlesbrough 3-1 to return to the top of the Championship.
The Nigeria midfielder, who joined on loan from Brentford on transfer deadline day, was handed an immediate start at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Monday.
Onyeka had been expected to make his debut earlier, but the birth of his son delayed his introduction. When his opportunity came, the 27-year-old brought energy and bite to a midfield battle that swung decisively in Coventry’s favour.
Photo Credit: Imago
Lampard made four changes from the side that drew with Oxford United, with Onyeka drafted straight into the XI.
He repaid that trust with a disciplined performance, completing the majority of his passes, contributing a blocked effort on goal and making several interceptions, clearances and recoveries before being substituted in the 75th minute.
He also won a number of duels and was warmly applauded by home supporters as he left the field an early sign he may quickly become a favourite.
Photo Credit: Imago
At the other end, it was a memorable night for Haji Wright. The forward struck a first-half opener after being set up by Jack Rudoni, then doubled the lead early in the second period when he latched on to a long kick from goalkeeper Carl Rushworth and finished low into the corner.
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Boro, coached by Kim Hellberg, threatened a response when substitute Jeremy Sarmiento hit the post and Riley McGree pulled a goal back with a powerful strike following a blocked shot.
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But any hopes of a comeback ended late on when Coventry were awarded a penalty for handball. Wright stepped up to complete his hat-trick and secure all three points.
