Coventry City produced a spectacular second-half comeback to defeat West Bromwich Albion 3-2 in a thrilling Championship encounter at the CBS Arena, with Victor Torp netting the decisive goal in torrential conditions.
Dramatic Turnaround in the Rain
The match began disastrously for the league leaders as West Brom's Aune Heggebø scored twice to put the visitors firmly in control. Coventry found themselves staring at a potential home defeat until Josh Eccles managed to pull one back before half-time, setting the stage for an extraordinary second period.
The game's momentum shifted decisively when West Brom's Jayson Molumby received his marching orders just four minutes after the restart. The midfielder had already been booked for a first-half foul on Ephron Mason-Clark that sparked a confrontation between both players. His second yellow came for pulling back Torp to prevent a counter-attack, reducing the Baggies to ten men.
Torp Seals Remarkable Recovery
Frank Lampard's side took full advantage of their numerical superiority, with Ellis Simms equalising before Torp completed the turnaround with what proved to be the winning goal. The victory marks Coventry's ninth win in their last ten matches, maintaining their impressive form under Lampard's guidance.
This represents the second consecutive home game where Coventry have come from behind to secure victory, following their 3-1 win against Sheffield United before the international break after trailing 1-0.
Torp came close to extending Coventry's lead when his free-kick was blocked, while Mason-Clark forced an excellent save from West Brom goalkeeper Josh Griffiths. The home side comfortably managed the game's closing stages, with midfielder Jack Rudoni making a welcome return from a two-month injury absence.
Southampton Continue Impressive Run
Elsewhere in the Championship, Southampton maintained their excellent form under interim manager Tonda Eckert with a devastating 5-1 victory over Charlton Athletic at The Valley.
The Saints produced a breathtaking first-half performance, with Finn Azaz scoring twice and Ryan Manning, Adam Armstrong, and Casper Jander also finding the net in a dream opening 45 minutes. Southampton have now won all three matches since the German coach replaced Will Still earlier this month.
Charlton managed to pull one back just before half-time through vice-captain Lloyd Jones, who headed in Sonny Carey's deep corner. The result completed a miserable day for former Saints manager Nathan Jones, who faced taunts from travelling supporters throughout the match.
In the day's other Championship action, Bristol City secured an emphatic 3-0 victory over Swansea City at Ashton Gate. First-half goals from Rob Dickie and Emil Riis set the home side on their way, with substitute Yu Hirakawa completing the scoring late on with a low right-footed shot.