Rams rally to hold Sky Blues

Derby produced an excellent first-half comeback to secure a share of the spoils in a 2-2 draw with Coventry at Pride Park.

Just one point separated the sides before kick-off, with both looking over their shoulders towards the Championship relegation zone. But neither could claim the three points that would have gone a long way to ensuring their survival, although the Rams will be relieved to have secured just one after an awful start. In an enthralling first half, the Sky Blues put themselves in control with goals from Aron Gunnarsson and Marlon King. However, Nigel Clough's side scored twice in four minutes late in the half as first Steve Davies and then Robbie Savage with a penalty brought them right back into the game. Coventry caretaker boss Andy Thorn made two changes to the side that earned an impressive 2-0 victory over Watford last time out. Lukas Jutkiewicz, who came off the bench to net against the Hornets, earned a starting berth while Nathan Cameron replaced the injured Jordan Clarke. Thorn's decision to play Jutkiewicz almost paid instant dividends as the striker cleverly jinked his way down the right wing before finding Gary McSheffrey, who could only blaze over. McSheffrey continued to pose a threat with his direct approach. He came agonisingly close to putting the Sky Blues ahead again in the 13th minute, but, after cleverly working an opening, saw his effort deflected inches wide. The visitors got the reward their endeavour deserved in the 16th minute through a moment of quality from Gunnarsson. Brad Jones was at fault as he failed to claim a Sammy Clingan corner, allowing Gunnarsson to score with an excellent bicycle-kick. The Rams responded well, though, and nearly levelled just before the interval, but Keiren Westwood produced an excellent save keep out Steve Davies' free-kick. However, they found themselves two down in the 38th minute when, after twice being denied by Jones, King was left with the easiest of finishes. But, just as the game seemed to be slipping away from Clough's side, they pulled one back immediately, Steve Davies rising highest to node home Ben Davies' excellent free-kick. And the turnaround was complete on the stroke of half-time. Jamie Ward was brought down by King and Savage made no mistake from the spot. The second half was a different story as both sides struggled to carve out chances. The best chance to win it fell to Theo Robinson, but the former Huddersfield man was denied by Westwood.