Latics' away-day stalemate

LEE ERWIN . . . hit the bar

NEITHER Coventry nor Athletic could find a breakthrough during a goalless Sky Bet League One draw at the Ricoh Arena.

Stephen Robinson's men came closest to nicking victory, though, with Lee Erwin striking the crossbar during what was an impressive second half from the visitors.

There were chances at either end in a goalless first half, but neither goalkeeper had a clear-cut effort to save.

The best opportunity fell Coventry's way just a minute before the break when veteran Marcus Tudgay somehow contrived to head Kyel Reid's pinpoint cross wide from eight yards.

In the opening minutes the visitors had a strong penalty appeal waved away by referee Mr Sarginson after Paul Green looked to have been sent tumbling in the box.

The recalled Freddie Ladapo had Athletic's best chance of the opening period after 14 minutes, charging through at an angle before seeing a well-struck beaten away by City 'keeper Reice Charles-Cook.

Green also saw a shot deflected wide in what proved to be a disappointing opening 45 minutes.

Athletic opened the second period brightly, with Marc Klok forcing Charles-Cook into a superb diving save.

In the 56th minute, the woodwork came to Coventry's rescue when Erwin thumped a left-foot shot against the crossbar following a neat tee-up from Green.

Either side of the hour mark Athletic were dominant, but Green and Ollie Banks missed further chances to break the deadlock.

At the other end, former Watford and Bolton hit-man Marvin Sordell saw a shot blocked.

Banks came closest to nicking victory for Athletic late on when his effort was saved by Charles-Cook.