Coventry's Premier League campaign FINALLY has lift-off in controversial 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest: Relief for Frank Lampard as late equaliser is ruled out after VAR check

· DailyMail

ROSS HEPPENSTALL AT THE CITY GROUND: Little wonder Frank Lampard punched the air like a madman at the final whistle in front of 3,000 jubilant Sky Blues supporters.

A first Premier League win in over 25 years, off the foot of the table and finally some hope that Coventry can defy the odds and beat the drop.

Little wonder Frank Lampard punched the air like a madman at the final whistle in front of 3,000 jubilant Sky Blues supporters.

A stunning 55th-minute strike from left wing back Jay Dasilva left Lampard a picture of delight and Forest still without a win at home this season.

While Dasilva provided the coup de grace, this much-needed and deserved victory was all about the collective.

A brilliant clearance from visiting defender Bobby Thomas – who hacked Forest substitute Igor Jesus’ goalbound shot off the line in the final quarter – said much for Coventry's refusal to buckle.

They needed good fortune in the closing stages, though, as Jesus fired home before a VAR check by referee Jarred Gillett ruled the striker had fouled Caleb Yirenkyi before shooting.

Coventry have found life tough since returning to the top flight with four straight Premier League defeats and no goals scored to open their campaign.

Ex-England midfielder Lampard, one of the greatest players of his generation, constantly paced his technical area here.

The 48-year-old’s energy burst through his body for the entire game, seeping through his pores when Dasilva latched onto Carl Rushworth’s long punt and coolly slotted home left-footed.

Not since a John Hartson header saw off Sunderland in April 2001 had Coventry fans seen their team win a game of Premier League football.

They have now. And how they celebrated.

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