Gaffer delighted at spirit shown in Saturday's fightback.
Paul Dickov lauded his players after their 3-1 win over Coventry City at The Ricoh Arena on Saturday.The turnaround from the visitors – who were a goal down after four minutes – was underlined by goals from two substitutes.
“I thought in the second half, everybody was outstanding and it was one of the best all round team performances I’ve had since I’ve been here,” Dickov said.
“In the second half we were led by Curtis Main up top - who was outstanding today – and we got the result that we deserved.
“I’m delighted with the two substitutes because they were disappointed to be left out but they took it well after I spoke to them because I knew they'd get their chance and they’ve both made an impact. It’s easy for them to sulk but they’ve been right behind everyone.”
Dickov’s designs on an instant riposte to back to back home defeats got off to the worst possible start.
“You talk about giving yourself a chance in games and after four minutes our centre halves go AWOL but then after that leading in to half time I always thought we were going to score,” he said.
“I had to get in to them a little bit at half time and wanted to make them realise what a good chance they'd got and not to throw it away.
“We came here with a 4-1-4-1 formation and feel that away from home it's been a system that's really worked well for us but after four minutes we were 1-0 down.
“We had to take Abdul off before he got sent off, although we were thinking about changing it anyway and getting two wingers on to use the width on what is a big pitch.
“I’ve got to give the players all the credit. They worked ever so hard, tried to pass the ball and keep doing the right things.”