COVENTRY City manager Mark Robins highlighted how the football being played could 'never be pretty' on the pitch at the Wham Stadium.

Stanley did the double over Coventry in League Two last year, but Robins' side have taken four points off the Reds this season.

Robins added how he is 'full of admiration' for Stanley and the work that John Coleman has done for the Reds.

"I thought we played some good stuff but it couldn't be pretty on that pitch," said Robins.

"The three points are brilliant. We didn't take a point off them last year but we've taken four off them this season and that just shows you the steps forward we have taken.

"And I thought it was a really good performance and clean sheet. We played well and stood up to them.

"I said they 'old manned' us last year and we have got a younger team this year, so I am pleased with the way they handled it and handled themselves.

"Not being greedy, I thought it was a really good away performance on a difficult surface. It was difficult conditions as well because the wind got up."

Robins is full of admiration for his opposite number in the dug out and believes Coleman has a good thing going at Stanley.

"They were Champions last year and John Coleman has done an unbelievable job with them and they thrive on what they have got here," added Robins.

"I am full of admiration for them because they are an outstanding club and they look after you.

"So fair play to them and I am just delighted because I know how tough it is to come here."

The Sky Blues' boss added how the Reds have some really threatening forward players.

"I thought we'd get more goals because we looked a threat. But they have got good players. Sean McConville is a really good, wily player. Jordan Clark I know of old from Barnsley and he's a really good player. They have got dangerous players all over the pitch and the way that they play puts you under pressure all the time.

"Jordan Clark almost scored in the first minute and McConville came onto it at the other side and that was the wide partnership that worked so well against us last season," said Robins.

"They are a threat and this has been a tough place to come but I am delighted with the three points which lifts us up a place and closer to those play-offs."