Frank Lampard coyly avoided divulging details of a fiery touchline confrontation with Portsmouth manager John Mousinho following Coventry City’s 2-1 Championship victory at Fratton Park. The clash erupted after a contentious penalty appeal in the first half, with tensions spilling over between the dugouts.
The incident occurred when Portsmouth argued for a handball against Coventry defender Jay Dasilva, whose outstretched arm blocked Yang Min-hyeok’s cross. As Mousinho protested to officials, Lampard intervened, gesturing for his counterpart to return to his technical area before being ushered away by staff.
When pressed post-match about the exchange, the Coventry boss remarked: “It’s football, isn’t it? I won’t disclose what was said. We’re both fighting for our clubs – emotions take over.” Lampard suggested touchline tactics played a role, adding: “Some use proximity to officials as pressure; I understand it, though it’s not my style.”
Brandon Thomas-Asante’s brace secured Coventry’s victory, extending their lead at the Championship summit to four points. Portsmouth, meanwhile, languish in 15th after one win in five matches. Lampard dismissed the penalty claims, stating: “At first glance, it wasn’t clear. Crowd influence can affect decisions, but I didn’t see a case.”
The result intensifies Coventry’s promotion credentials while deepening Portsmouth’s mid-table struggles, now just four points above the relegation zone.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!