Coventry through in Carabao Cup

Coventry City advance in the Carabao Cup after Ellis Simms scores the winner against Luton Town.

Coventry City player ratings as forgotten man catches eye and Simms scores in Carabao Cup

Coventry City beat Luton Town 1-0 at the CBS Arena to reach the Carabao Cup second round. Ellis Simms converted a close-range finish in the 57th minute after a swift move that started with Haji Wright and a bursting Coventry press. The first half was subdued, with Ben Wilson forced into a near-post stop to deny Cauley Woodrow, and Coventry came alive after the break as they asserted control.

Rodrigues, operating on the right, burst forward to fashion the opener and set Simms free at the far post. Jack Rudoni came on and tested James Shea with a low free-kick, while Coventry’s momentum carried them through to the final whistle. Coventry will now prepare for Derby County away, continuing a busy schedule this month.

Coventry’s second-half lift shows the value of depth and a flexible lineup. The win hints at a growing attacking chemistry, especially from Rodrigues and Wright, while Simms answers his critics with a sharp, clinical finish. The performance also underlines the team’s willingness to press higher and work as a unit, which could be instrumental as the Sky Blues navigate a packed fixture list. The result adds early-season momentum without declaring safety at the edge of the season, yet it also raises questions about consistency in tougher midweek games.

Highlights

A positive sign for Coventry as they balance cup runs with a demanding schedule.