14/12/2013 The Football League Show

Good evening. Coming up tonight, all the goals from today's 35 games in

the Skybet Football League, as most teams reached the 20 game milestone.

It was also a special day for two new managers, as Mark Warburton took

charge of Brentford and ten days after leaving Barnsley, David

Flitcroft picked up the reigns at Bury. I'll be getting Steve's views

on the day's big winners and losers. And here's how we line up tonight.

With five players sent off in their last two games Blackpool have

suffered something of a disciplinary crisis in recent weeks. We'll find

out how Paul Ince's side got on today against title favourites QPR.

It was third versus first in Saturday's early kick-off at the

Kingpower Stadium. Nottingham Forest returned to winning ways last week

at Sheffield Wednesday. Today, Billy Davies' side welcomed a rapidly

improving Ipswich to the City Ground. And after losing his job at

Crawley Town last month, he was out of work for just 12 days. We're with

Richie Barker, as he prepares his players for his first game in charge

of Portsmouth, at home to Newport County.

Well, first to Blackpool, who have had more of a red look about them

than Tangerine lately after seeing five of their players sent off in

their last two games, soon after Paul Ince's own five match stadium

ban for abusing a match official. Well, this week, the manager

insisted that discipline wasn't an issue at the club. So, would the

players prove him right as second placed QPR arrived at Bloomfield

Road? Commentary from Tom Pope. Blackpool have been riddled with

suspension after receiving a handful of unwelcome cards. They returned to

the top six. Rangers have not won away since September. They begin to

battle with banning for top spot. Rangers make two changes from the

draw with black burn. Andy Johnson is injured. -- Blackburn.

That was a good save. He was equal to the task. It was well worked. He

was patient. He did not get in the corner enough to test the

goalkeeper. A fowl and Blackpool are just

turning the momentum. Rangers have the best of the opening exchanges.

Davis forced the foul out of Simpson.

Another chip over the top, this time from Green. The header came flying

in. The ball was headed towards goal and

he was left in a comfortable area. The goals seem to beckon for him. He

swept at it. At the near post there was a gap. He failed to keep it

down. It was probably too straight. He did well to keep that in. That

was brilliant control. A difficult bit of control in the circumstances.

He did well to keep it in play. That was an absolute shocker.

Gosling went for goal and it's great wide of the post. He could not

believe his good fortune that he had a chance to strike at goal. Gosling

scraped his effort wide somewhat and, in the end, did not trouble the

goalkeeper. That missed everybody. Good efforts

in the opening few minutes of the second half. The deflection went

their way. That was a good save from Rob Green. A miserable day on the

coast. Over the bar from Gosling. In his

frustration play he Hammers into the ground. Blackpool must be wondering

whether they will convert one of these chances. Gosling with the

first attempt. He off-loaded after the awful mistake. Gosling got into

early and need the ball, which went over the bar. A great start to the

second half. It was still zero. -- 0-0. There was nothing they could do

about that. With the help of a deflection, Queens Park Rangers and

Matt Phillips might be going to the top of the table once again. Under

pressure, he cleared away from Austin. Phillips was the first to

react. The deflection this time of Cathcart and past jokes. -- Gilks.

Blackpool are behind and suddenly staring at it third straight defeat.

That was driven in hard. A very good save from a tight angle. Gilks is

starting to run riot. He showed enough of himself to deflect it

behind. A low shot towards the right-hand

post. It was great wide. He has created enough chances to earn a

hat-trick. A drop off the shoulder from Philips. He went wide with his

effort. Charlie Austin, 11 goals for the

season. Absolutely no problem from close range. Queens Park Rangers are

really showing their class. Harry Redknapp will know surely that they

will have turned around their horrible away form which had seen

them not win for five games. They are heading back towards the top of

the table. Charlie Austin, with a thumping header, makes sure that

Blackpool have been knocked back once again. He met that perfectly.

What a great save! How he kept that out, I am not sure. A huge arm from

the goalkeeper keeps the score respectable. Robinson with the

throw. And the referee brings to an end a game which sees Queens but

Rangers record their fourth away victory of the season. -- Queens

Park Rangers. I thought we started to play in the second half and kept

the ball much better. Credit to Blackpool. They have had injuries

and suspensions. It is not easy to win here. Anyone who wins here will

do well. We competed with them. When you do that, you have to make the

most of the faces that we have. That is what is disappointing. It has

been a good few days four Queens Park Rangers. A valuable away win at

Blackpool. They had to withstand a lot of pressure in the first hour at

least. One really good opportunity where Dan Gosling does not quite get

the ball in time. QPR score and the game completely changes. They could

have gone on to win it by four or five. In a game where they were

dominated by the opposition for an hour. The game hinged on the first

goal. QPR got it and they went on at the end to be quite comfortable. All

eyes on Matt Phillips. He was instrumental. If we look at Charlie

Austin. He is the one that causes Matt Phillips to rush that

clearance. -- Matt Gilks to rush the clearance. He gets a bit of luck.

It's skidded off the surface. A wonderful bit of play. Two big

signings. Real pieces of quality from both Charlie Austin and Matt

Phillips. That was the difference on the day. You have to take into

account the conditions. All of these incidents in the first half an

hour, the game really opened up for them. It was a really difficult

start to the game. Gallagher and other good save from Matt Gilks. We

have yet to see QPR going. They are averaging over two points a game.

That is what the doctor would have ordered. It is a tough league. They

have some good players. This is the time when it starts to come to

fruition. Going into the weekend, only goal difference separated QPR

and Burnley, who were back on top. Earlier today, the Clarets took on

the team at the summit, Leicester. Nigel Pearson made four changes to

his Leicester side after their recent slump in form. In came De

Laet, Moore, Knockaert and James. League leaders Burnley made one

change with Dean Marney returning to the side after more than a month out

at the expense of Brian Stock. Kevin Keatings was watching this one.

He has real quality in the final third. The Belgian on the ball. A

decent cut back. That was blocked. So important. He was in the right

place at the right time for Burnley. Out as far as Drinkwater. He struck

it well. A possible penalty. They are appealing for handball. This

time against Jason Shackle. There was a claim for a Leicester

penalty here. It would have been very harsh had that been given.

Anthony Knockaert, dealt with by the second attempt by heater. The French

midfielder really caught hold of this. -- dealt with by the second

attempt by Heaton. A poor ball, inviting pressure. Down

goes Vardy under the challenge from Shackell. The referee points to the

penalty spot. They are the architects of their own downfall

here, Burnley. It was Shackell's poor ball and his tackle on Vardy,

injudicious. Andy D'Urso was right to point to the penalty spot. Clear

contact there. So against his former club, ten goals this season, six

from the penalty spot for Dade -- for David Nugent. Make it seven, an

11th of the season. He loves playing against his former club, doesn't he?

Five in the last six against Burnley.

Ice-cool. Sean Dyche having a word with the fourth official. About the

merits of the Leicester penalty kick.

It is off the post. Very close to the opening goal therefore Burnley.

Danny Ings denied by the woodwork. The flag stays down. A chance the

two for Leicester. It is wide. Jamie Vardy with an excellent

opportunity here. Kightly will look to get more into

this game in the second half. A goal, Danny Ings! It had to be him!

You switch off at your peril with Danny Ings around.

How often does he pick up the ideal position in the opposition penalty

area? That was one of the easiest of his season.

A poor ball, this could be costly for Leicester. A big save from

Schmeichel to deny Vokes but what on earth was he doing there? He was

trying to find his goalkeeper. He did not look and Vokes denied by

Schmeichel. Very reminiscent of his father, wasn't it? He had to be here

to see it, didn't he? His dad. It is wide, really good chance for

Jamie Vardy. He can't believe he has missed it. With that Miss may go

Leicester's hopes of going back to the top of the table.

The Leicester fans are getting anxious. They know the whistle is

close. In by Anthony Knockaert, Heaton gets it away.

We put them under an awful lot of pressure in the first half and were

not able to extend the lead that I think we deserved. You know, they

are at the top of the league because they have got quite a bit of

resilience about them. So I would imagine they will feel it is a

decent point for them. We probably feel it is two points dropped

because I think we should have won the game but we move on. They have

to break through with a soft penalty but but I must make it clear I am

not criticising the rest, but it looks soft to me. We grew into the

game after that. We looked to get the ball down, use it better, keep

the ball and going into the second half obviously Danny Ings scored

early and we settled down and made the place nervous today with the

energy, the application of the players and the quality in the

second half. We kept the ball ready well.

Leicester will be kicking themselves. They did not make the

first-half domination count. No, they'd were very good, they

dominated the game. How much they opened Burnley, I don't know. They

had 19 shots on goal and only three on target so it wasn't a plethora of

chances. They were the dominant force. Leicester got their noses in

front in the first half. Capitalising slight defending from

Burnley. It is a perfect goal to sum up the half, the way Leicester

pressurised Burnley from the start. Eight -- OK, it is a contentious

penalty. Does he fall and how much control has he got off the ball?

Yes, they deserve to be up, should they be up, I am not sure. We saw a

completely different Burnley side in the second half and the early goal

settled them down quickly. As for the goal that Leicester conceded,

well, I suppose they could have dealt with it in two ways really?

Yes, what you have got is players who are thinking that the ball is

going to be cleared and anticipating that it is not and they don't do

anything about it. That is how the ball can travel that distance

through a crowd of players. A little bit of an -- lack of anticipation

and being proactive rather than reactive. The ball should be dealt

with. The form that Danny Ings is in this season, there was no point. You

could put your house on the fact he would put it away. Yes, that is the

way Burnley have done it. In periods of games where they have been under

pressure they have given themselves a chance and they have belief they

can have a player who can get them out of a hole and he has done it

today. Second half they were better and probably with one or two good

chances might have nicked it in the second half. More from the

Championship, Nottingham Forest welcomed and Ipswich side beginning

to hit form. They have won their last three games. Billy Davies made

one change to his Forest side with Chalobah coming in for... Ipswich

chased a third consecutive away win. Dan O'Hagan describes the action.

That was moving and swelling. Frank Nouble's fierce drive.

He goes for goal himself. It is Gerken's turn to make a spectacular

save. The referee says no. Out comes the

goalkeeper. Was Cox already going down maybe?

This has been a very good Forest spell.

Off the crossbar this time. Simon Cox with a super springy leap and

the ball back off the face of the bar.

Oh, what a save, Dean Gerken. A fabulous save, it really was. Cox

in, had to score, would have done but for this man's brilliance.

Late drama, Ipswich knocking on the door loudly in the closing moments.

It is a good point for Mick McCarthy and Ipswich Town, that is for sure.

Did you get away with one with the penalties that decision in the first

half? No, I am just saying it is not a penalty. He is honest way down. He

falls into him. I can't blame him for doing it. I thought it was a

fantastic decision. That is football. Some you get, some you

don't. We look at the chance is more than anything. We look at the very

good clean sheet again against a team that is on fire at the moment.

It is a very good clean sheet, a good back-to-back clean sheet. We

nor know what the problem is and what the situation is. -- we all

know. Last season Jamie Ward scored home and away for derby against

Charlton with look like this little wonder. -- for Derby County. They

were one down after half an hour. With good form comes good fortune.

This was the Rams' tense match under Steve McClaren. He freely admits he

inherited talented squad and the lead was nearly doubled. He hit the

bar rather than the jackpot. Charlton have their own pressing

reason for needing points, a place in the bottom four, but they do

struggle for goals. Neat approach play wins plaudits, poor finishing

wins nothing. Michael Morrison the culprit, Derby off the hook. Six

consecutively victory when Connor Sammon's pass released Craig Bryson.

When -- in the first post-war cup final between these two sides, the

ball burst. There is little sign of Derby's bubble bursting. We had a

chance with a header which would have made it 1-1. Normally he buries

them. He is in the six yard area, goes wide. They had -- they are the

moments you need to turn for you. Got a fortunate goal, took control

of the game but the last 15 minutes were crazy, hectic and we were

relieved when we got the second goal just to win the game.

With the likes of Pogrebnyak, Sharp, Le Fondre and others in their ranks

there are those that say that Reading boasts the best striking

options in the Championship. Two combine for the only goal here.

Billy Sharp heading home Pogrebnyak's cross. Huddersfield had

nobody to finish off the chances they created. Danny Ward was twice

denied by Alex McCarthy in the Royals' goal. The Reading keeper was

at it again in the second half as the Terriers dominated but could not

find a way through. The Royals survived the onslaught and became

only the second side this season to come away from Huddersfield with a

clean sheet. Martin Paterson did eventually have McCarthy beaten but

Reading's look held. Joel Lynch's injury time lunch on Pogrebnyak

perhaps betraying the frustration of 27 shots but no goals. It earned him

a second yellow card as previously resurgent Huddersfield went down to

a second straight defeat. Up going into the dressing room I am pleased

but I am furious. It is one of those days where we don't want that mantra

where we play well, Huddersfield town lost. 1-0 away from home, a

difficult venue, a good side, a pleasing result.

The former Real Madrid man was at the Riverside, if it wasn't for the

post Ashley Barnes would have drawn first blood for the Brighton boss

whose side were hoping to make it 16 points from 21. Not much to concern

Garcia in the first half. A daisy cutter. Though the Teessiders did

improve, the early talk of a play-off challenge looks optimistic

and instead they are slipping into trouble. Shay Given had to be on his

toes to keep out Stephen Ward but Middlesbrough's record was one win

in seven at the end will stop Matthew Upson found a reason to

celebrate, he will have a sore head on Sunday and more ways than one.

Another of the late defensive lapses that costing Middlesbrough dear.

I can't believe the situation. It is the same thing, game after game, the

same. I was happy with my team. But there were put in treasured

mistakes. We can't continue in this way.

Already bemoaning Middlesbrough's bad luck. Brighton, their fifth win

in the last seven, on the fringe of the play-offs. They were pretty

impressive. Despite all the attacking players Oscar Garcia has

had to do without. They are stuck in there. They are in a good one. At

the start of the season, it wasn't quite working for them. They have

found their feet, the manager has found his feet. He has been left

with real quality and depth. There was a contentious issue at the

City Ground in that goalless draw. Was this a penalty? I think it is,

certainly, there is contact. The ball goes slightly to the left.

He carries his run forward, he gets brought down. Look at the reaction

of the keeper. He is thinking he has given away a penalty. The inform

team, Derby County, a terrific run of form under Steve McClaren. Their

passing percentages are up there with Barcelona. And, without shoes,

which needs to be noticed. -- without Hughes.

First goal, an element of luck. But a different performance. They had to

dig in, which is a great sign. The conditions were tough today. They

stuck in there. And showed a different side we haven't seen this

season. That augurs well for the second half. And a real push for

those automatic spots. Let's round up the rest of the

Championship now. First up, the West Yorkshire derby, as struggling

Doncaster took on Leeds, who were on the fringe off the play-off places.

Leeds have been making good progress in recent weeks but their away form

has been a problem. They have lost five of their previous six ahead of

their trip here. So this header was just what the doctor ordered against

their Yorkshire rivals. Doncaster had seen of QPR on this ground.

Wellens reminded it would be far from peddling -- plain sailing.

Robinson put away what appeared to be the equaliser. The linesman's

flag made a decision which infuriated the home side. A relieved

goalkeeper after Kenny let fly. The home side increased the pressure

after the break. Ross MacCormack duly obliged with his 11th goal in

seven matches. That put Brian McDermott's men en route for the top

six. A defeat putting Rovers close to danger.

Rossmore, came up with a fantastic goal. The second goal killed it. The

bonus was the third goal. We are delighted with the resolution, and

determination am pleased that the fans.

Why the linesman took as long to put his flag up, I don't know. That

decision has baffled me as much as the result.

A meeting of managers under scrutiny, Stuart Gray, caretaker,

Gianfranco Zola, care ward after eight games without a win. Stuart

Gray was taking charge for a third time and would have been thrilled

with the first half free kick. The 20-year-old has scored five goals in

seven league appearances for Wednesday. Watford were seeking to

avoid a second home defeat. Here, the offside flag spoiled

celebrations. They had their chances. Murray testing Martinez

from distance. The pattern continued all the way until stoppage time with

Fabbrini feeding Forestieri who failed to spoiled Wednesday's first

clean sheet of the season, leaving their manager to ponder in solitude.

Nine games without a win, are you starting to feel the pressure?

I am starting to feel the pressure, I know my position. I know I have to

produce results. When they don't come, it is difficult. A huge three

points. It was the man of the win which was the pleasing thing.

Ewood Park hasn't been the best venue to seek goals recently. Prior

to this visit, Blackburn's last home games have shown a total of only

four. Rhodes had a sight of goal early on. But Millwall went into

half-time on level terms. Just before the break, Waghorn slipped

home and equaliser. The goal coming in the final game of his loan spell.

The Millwall manager would do well to strengthen his back four. The

second half saw Ben Marshall head home his first goal for Blackburn.

On this occasion, Rovers won the aerial duel not once but twice and

three times. David Dunn was the man with the match-winning touch with

five minutes to go. The Lions pulled one back through Steve Morrison late

on but Blackburn held on for a first win in three.

We are masters of our own downfall, three goals we conceded were very

poor. They don't even belong to a schoolboy.

Lee Clark can afford to smile with Birmingham clambering up the title.

And in five. Bournemouth hoped to build on their much-needed victory

at wedding. Confidence was soon put to the test. Inside the first three

minutes, a first goal for Shinnie for the Blues. The home side had

gone seven that winning before they stop the rot last week but they did

not crumble. Bournemouth fought manfully. Randolph scrambling.

Against the run of play, Birmingham landed their second. Figure which

leaving Eddie Howe with a mountain to climb. Grabow and went

agonisingly close. There was more of the same in the second half with

Randolph the busier keeper. The Blues stood firm to stretch their

run. Randolph refused to be beaten. As

was obvious. Lee Clark was smiling at the finish, inside at least. The

resilience of every single man was brilliant, blocking shots, winning

headers, winning tackles, being totally committed to the cause.

To help us get a brilliant result. High stakes at Oakwell, both sides

started in the bottom three, and will have to show plenty of

Christmas spirit during this period of goodwill. Joel Grant taking the

opportunity putting Yeovil on top after ten minutes. A boost for a

side growing in belief recently. A three match unbeaten run. Which has

done them the power of good. Edwards within inches of increasing that

league. This McAllister offering his -- the team a route back into the

contest. Both sides did their best to muster

a winner but could not find one. Substitute Jason Scotland raised the

bar as frustration grew. With Sheffield Wednesday winning at

Watford, Barnsley went for it in the closing stages. A brilliant save.

Both sides remain in the bottom three.

We will have the usual conversation. If there is anything

we need to talk about it -- talk about, we will.

One man who has given himself a great boost is Stuart Gray at

Sheffield Wednesday who have picked up their first away win. A cracking

free kick from Wickham. Fantastic. That was over the wall, nothing you

can do about that. For the first time this season, they have kept a

clean sheet. They kept it tight at the back.

It means Watford fans have not seen a win in three months, five defeats

them. Incredible the way their form has turned around. Could Gianfranco

Zola do with a more experienced number two in the dugout? Experience

isn't an indicator of success or failure. He will look at it and

analyse whether that needs to be tipped. When you are not playing

well and winning games, questions are asked. He will look at that. If

he feels he needs more experience, I am sure he will go and find it. A

good win for Leeds. Up to sixth in the Championship. The promise of

money to spend in January. There is purpose and direction in the way

leads are heading. The new people who went in and wanted to look at

the new manager. Whether they could trust him.

Whether he could steer the club in the right direction. He is clearly

doing that. If they do release some funds, they could have a decent

second half of the season. Let's find out how League One

unfolded earlier today. And, despite only drawing last week, Leyton

Orient regained top spot from Wolves. Next up for Russell Slade's

men, an away trip to Bradford. Draws have been a recurring theme

for both these teams of late, for Bradford The Resistable Rise of

Arturo Ui previous five games have finished level.

It was Orient who are first to strike. Lloyd James doing a passable

impression of a regular scorer. That goal came in first half stoppage

time. The leveller came similarly lead late in the second half.

Wolverhampton are having a pre-Christmas wobble, two defeats in

two games, as they were stunned by the MK Dons. The dolls don't travel

well. Bamford poked home his 14th of the season. Karl Robinson's side

secured only their second away win of the season with a stunning goal

from Ben Reeves. The visitors deserved the win but Wolverhampton

are stuttering. This response came late in the game. Robinson was full

of praise for the young side. It is such a young group, to come here and

not freeze, a wonderful place to play football.

They conducted themselves marvellously. I did think we showed

enough appetite, MK Dons wanted it more than we did.

They showed a high level of motivation to make things happen. We

started both halves sloppily and couldn't get back into it.

Preston flew down to Sussex and were off to a flyer. Huntingdon getting

airborne to head north end in front. Then John Welsh spotted Brownhill on

his radar and the teenager doubled the lead. The worst possible start

for John Gregory. This free kick soared over the defence. Connelly

hit the post. Joe Walsh rifled the home side back into contention. Gary

Alexander grabbed a stoppage time leveller.

We kept the ball very well. The players were totally committed in

everything they did. It was nice to give the fans something to shout

about in the second half. The pressure and possession we had, I

thought we might win it. Bradford appointed Mark Warburton

from within after the departure of Uwe Rosler. Trotter was unlucky

after coming off the bench. It looked like honours even but with

the game deep into stoppage time, Douglas got on the end of a superb

cross to bury his first goal in 13 months. And provide his team with a

six and went on the trot. It was a win for the first game. I

am delighted for them. When Dwight Gale was sold to Crystal Palace in

the summer, they invested the money in another goal-scorer. The former

Watford man devoured his 15th of the season. The chilling equaliser

emanated from the left foot of Joe Martin. Peter Boro 's record in the

league represents an improvement on what went on before. This cross was

guided in by the head of Cody McDonald. That established the

potential for a Gills win. So it is to their keeper, as much as their

striker, that they owed thanks for a point.

The rousing reception before the reality check. This home debut as

Bristol city manager got off to the worst possible start. The Wigan

lonely reacted quickest to the tester. The Millers may have crashed

out of two cup competitions in the last few days but they take a step

nearer to extending their unbeaten run in League 1. Bristol city 's

sixth manager in three and a half years did not have much to smile

about until nine minutes from time. They landed a somewhat fortuitous

goal. We have to let the shackles go a little bit and relax. Like I said,

they did that later in the game. We did not give the supporters the

result they wanted and probably we all crave today. One of three new

manager starting their life in the Football League. What about the

standout away performance from MK Dons at all. They have had a torrid

time of late. It was only their second home win of the season with

two quality goals. Sometimes they have cracked this year will stop

when they start to pass the ball around, what a fantastic finish!

That is a brilliant way to secure a victory and a really important one

as well. Lets talk about the new meant taking charge of their first

league game. In the build-up to the game, the manager said, he has not

looked at any of the previous DVDs of the game at -- the games at

Ashton Gate this season because it does not want it to prejudice him

against the players already there. It sounds like the unorthodox. It is

not the way I would probably like to do it. I would like to get as much

information as I can. What sort of player you like and the way they

play. Then you can hit the ground running as quickly as he can.

Everyone does it differently. Mark Walker at Bradford is taking over. A

bit of a risk considering there is no management experience. They did

not advertise the position. He went straight in. The chief executive

said this is who we want. He was always going to be the first choice.

John Gregory, talk about a blast from the past. One goal in the last

eight games against Crawley and he rescued ager Matic point at the end

of it. -- a two Matic point at the end of it. It has given him

something to work with. More from League One now and Sheffield United

are beginning to see signs of new life under new manager Nigel Clough,

unbeaten in three and out of the relegation zone, the Blades were at

home to Swindon. Nigel Clough has got tough and made Sheffield United

harder to beat. Chris Porter almost made the breakthrough against

Swindon. Tightening up a porous defence has been the first port of

call. Now he wants his side to be more of an attacking threat. We have

started building up in the last few weeks that resilience. The do not

lose mentality. It is lovely to get the three points at home. Having

been beaten at Macclesfield and golden, and other places away from

home, we ask our about attacking. -- Oldham. Tom Pope celebrated his 50th

portrayal goal last night and he was millimetres away number 51 at

Stevenage. After half an hour port failed took the lead. A penalty was

given and the former Stevenage midfielder crashed home his fifth

goal in his last seven games. Stevenage lost four of their

previous five league games. They turned the match around with two

goals in the space of three minutes. The second which put his

side in front owed plenty to the incisive run into the box. Portrayal

looked in real trouble. Michael Doughty picked up a second yellow

card. Stevenage had to play with ten men for the final 20 minutes. They

very nearly held out. With the 90 minutes almost up, it was Pope who

produced the goods again. The cross came from Robert Taylor. His tenth

goal of the season meant his side had put away ten goals in their last

eight games. An early kick-off in Shropshire and nearly an early goal

for Shrewsbury. The Reading loanee found the goalkeeper in defiant

form. Last month, Walsall knocked Shrewsbury out of the FA Cup. The

Slovakian borrowed from Chelsea put the side in front. The advantage

should have been cancelled out. If you are a friend, relative or even

casual acquaintance of Tom eaves, look away now. Six fields has

certainly seen some goals when Coventry were at home. They have

scored more than anyone else on home turf. Alex took the lead. It was

against the run of play. The Sky Blues were rewarded for their

efforts. Cal Wilson may be the Coventry leading scorer bet he has

admitted to getting a break at home as he has so far failed to score a

penalty in professional football. He duly dispatched his 14th of the

season. Crew have more resolve after a midweek heart-to-heart with their

manager. They hit back to rescue a point. They punished some hesitant

defending before the equaliser. After a nightmare start to his dream

job, things are looking much brighter for the Nottinghamshire

County boss. He has never looked back. The Aston Villa Loney is on

target for the second week running. Morgan Fox is on loan from

Charlton. These are worrying times for Colchester. With this defeat,

they slide closer to danger. Allan McGregor swept in his third in two

games to increase the punishment. With the first away win of the

season in the camp, they went for more. They delivered the perfect

pass for Gary Liddle, who bought it into the net. Four goals, a clean

sheet and County off the bottom. It took on loan Manchester United

teenager Tom Lawrence less than 60 seconds of his debut to announce his

arrival. What a way to open your account! Not until early in the

second half did Carlyle take control.

No one was about but stage Lawrence. Six minutes past the hour, he

effectively killed the match with another goal of pure quality. After

James Barrett 's shot from the edge of the boss was -- box was

deflected, only crew had conceded more goals than Tranmere. Carlisle

were heading to a fourth home win on the spin. This late consolation made

no difference whatsoever. Rovers are two points above the bottom four. We

will talk about that to refit Quinn for Carlisle in a second.

Nottinghamshire County Art of the bottom of the table. -- that to

refit Quinn. Back-to-back wins for the first time as a football

manager. It will make the taste even sweeter. A couple of good wins on

the bounce. It will change the complexion of his management. He

struggled in the first four or five. He has got some loan signings in and

looked at what he has. They were very good today. It is a brilliantly

worked goal. All of a sudden, a little bit of confidence and

arrogance about their play. It looks like he will turn things around.

Bristol city next. I mentioned Carlisle. What a great few days it

has been for them. Drawn against Sunderland at Sunderland in the FA

Cup. 4-1 winners against Tranmere. Not that long ago they put five

goals past their opponents. What about those two goals for Tom

Lawrenson. Wonderful goals. They are the type of loans that make a real

difference to your season. Real quality about those. They are

obviously fantastic in terms of finishing. Seasons can depend on how

you can use the loan market to your advantage. The 19-year-old could be

in name to look out for. Sheffield United are in the relegation zone.

He is putting them back together. We all knew they were a good side with

good players. It did not work out under the previous manager. Maybe

more of a clarity in style of play. He has come in and things have

turned around. We expected it to turn around so quickly but we did

expect better. Swindon are playing some good at the moment. Right, time

for League Two now and once again, it's all change at Fratton Park as

the Crawley management duo of Ritchie Barker and Steve Coppell

took charge this week at troubled Portsmouth. Clem was given

unprecedented access to a training session, in the build up to their

first game in charge against Newport County.

Were you nervous taking your first session? It would be human nature if

you were. If you start saying that, they see a weakness. You are a

Yorkshire man. Did the fact he got linked to the Portsmouth job before

you left crawly in any way contribute to them getting rid of

you? They said so. They have openly said it was not down to that. It was

about 16 hours. I do not think so. Why are you being linked to jobs

like this? Over the last 18 months, what we did, we are starting to get

a bit of momentum. We had some good things said about us. The way we

played at times, we were starting to take a few headlines. There is a

thing with younger managers where people want to do something a bit

different. I heard your new chairman talk about

your teaching qualification. After I had done the sports science degree,

what else could I find out about people? I tried to find out how

people learn. The best people learn from teachers. Make sure you get out

of the square. Get back and support your square. There is the shadowy

character of Mr Steve Coppell. He does not get involved in training

sessions at all? If he sees something, he may speak to me

briefly but we will talk about it were me get back to the office. It

is good to have someone who stands back with his knowledge and

experience. Your he does not get amongst the players.

There was a serious headline last weekend, the spot fixing allegation

with a former Portsmouth player. How have you played that with these

guys, because one or two did play with some Sochi? For the good of the

game we need to make sure those sorts of things don't continue. I

had a brief chat with them and said, if you hear anything, if anyone

approaches you, don't see it as grassing up a mate or whatever it

is, it is incredibly serious. Last five. It will have to be a draw, I

think. It is a fantastic opportunity and I was asked why Portsmouth? A

great history, a fantastic history, a brilliant bunch of supporters but

a fantastic amount of potential as well. It will not happen open at --

overnight and it could take time but I am looking forward to try to

restore this club where it should be.

If Richie Barker was in any doubt about the size of the task at

Portsmouth, this game will tell him all he needs to know. Patrick

Agyemang saw his shot blocked by sandal. The same player went close

in the second half. Pidgeley and pipe kept it out. As the game wore

on, Newport began to dominate. A glorious opportunity was wasted. It

was a sign of things to come as the X-Files when it thanks to two goals

at three second-half minutes. Michael Flynn got both of them

smashing home his first after good work by Ryan Jackson. Portsmouth's

confidence deserted them, as did their defensive discipline. Flynn

got his second moments later as Newport made it six wins from nine

unbeaten matches. Pompey might have pulled one back after Jed Wallace

hit the post. Barcham was denied on the follow-up. The scoreline

reflected the job in hand for the new man at Fratton Park, reversing

the fortunes of a club apparently in terminal decline. I thought there

was enough opportunities to win the game but if we keep conceding two

every week it will be tough. Are losing start, a new manner helm

but the same defensive frailties. The same old story, isn't it? Yes, I

think the reception afterwards, there was criticism and stick from

the crowd. I think they have run out of patience. They have put up with

an awful lot over the last three or four years and there are not any

more excuses about off field antics and financial difficulties. Now is

the time when people have to front up. It was only a few weeks ago

their captain was talking about leading stability at the club. He

has seen 60 players come and go over the last 13 months and January might

seek more personnel, and go. I don't think they are in a position where

lots will come in and out. It is not that bad a squad. It should not be

18th. There is tinkering and work to be done, one or two players and

areas that might need to be changed and strengthened but you don't need

to get rid of everybody and start again. How do you think the new duo

of Richie Barker and Steve Coppell will get on? They should be fine. It

is one of those clubs where it is a huge club at that level. They should

have that pole. There is no reason why they cannot finish this season

strongly and go into next season. Being up there with the people

looking to get promoted out of this division because that squad is

nowhere near where it should be. We also saw the subject of the spot

fixing allegations that were made in the last few days. Of all your years

in the game, did you ever come across something like that before?

There is a difference between spot fixing and fixing the game or

performance. When the market is open they talk about throwing is and free

kicks, that has been done away with but now you are talking about people

who are physically being paid to do something. That is not prevalent. It

certainly is not widespread in the game when it is it needs to be cut

out and cut out very quickly. Another man interviewed for the

Portsmouth job was Oxford's Chris Wilder. It was back in charge of the

League Two leaders who have lost just once in the last nine, heading

into day's game with Dagenham. No breathing space for the space

that is. Oxford were top, two points ahead of the team in seventh. That

fine strike was cancelled out by Dagenham Redbridge two minutes

into stoppage time at the end of the first half. Rhys Murphy's 11th of

the campaign was equally eye-catching. Only foreign old stage

to repeat the trick in time added on. Dave Kitson provides more than

he scores but a wise old head can be so useful when the pressure is on.

Oxford continue to lead the way. Overall in the general amount of

play chances, possession, we just deserved to win. They probably

deserved to beat us today because it was a bit of containment at times.

We did not get too much in their half. They have good players, got

the ball forward and created chances and we did not really.

Matt Brown will never forget his Chesterfield debut, first hero, seem

villain, the former centre half needed just nine minutes to open his

account. Marc Richards after much conjecture from the match officials

was awarded a spot kick for hand ball. He took it himself to seal the

win three minutes before half-time. He did not end there. Brown, who

only came back from a loan spell ready for hours before the game, was

caught in possession and the Irishman's charge towards goal was

ended by this charge. The early bath and headline secured. Further

punishment was avoided when Tom Ely brilliantly denied. It was a good,

exciting game, penalties and the sending-off, a lot of bits of

goalmouth action and stuff like that. So pleasing for the lads.

Bottom club Torquay would have been major underdogs against Southend and

they own their keeper, who made a terrific save early on. But they

turned the form book on its head for minutes after the break. John

Marquis latching onto a pass to register his second in consecutive

games. It could have been even more comfortable. Anthony O'Connor

striking the bar and forcing Daniel Bentley into a point-blank save. A

really important win for the goals. Are things we ask for us to be

resilient and if you are in a dogfight you have to fight and we

did it today and we showed pretty good composure. Was a poor

performance by us. We set high standards in October and November

and today was not reaching the standards and we did not deserve it.

If you had offered me a .20 minutes ago I would have grabbed it because

we were unrecognisable. When Sean McAllister's shot fell

nicely for Deon Burton it looks very much as if Scunthorpe would record a

fourth win out of four of their caretaker manager. The IM's hand was

strengthened further when Wycombe were reduced to ten men with 20

minutes to go. The second of two yellow cards in three minutes.

Against all the odds and in the seventh minute of injury time

Wycombe found an equaliser. Leon Johnson rescuing the point for the

chair boys who are now without a win in nine League Two matches.

Rochdale's results had cost them the automatic promotion spot so Charlie

Taylor's tumble was the last thing they needed to see. Manager Keith

Hill incensed by the penalty decision. Antoni Sarcevic showed no

mercy, blasting Fleetwood in front. Five minutes before the break, they

were level but there was a worrying second for Scott Hogan when he

thought he had been denied his big moment. The home team would still

have their work cut out keeping League Two's most prolific attacker

bay. Matty Blair sneaked in. It came to the rescue again as maize Pont

latched on to Junior Brown's cross but that is where Rochdale's luck

ran out. Mark Roberts was waiting for the rebound and the cod Army

looks like a salmon into the top three. We were disciplined in our

structure and how we played and created opportunities and took them.

It is a great three points for us. Burton Albion stays fixed soon

League Two after grabbing a draw with York but it was a case of what

might have been for them. Billy Kee's defence on what was the day of

missed chances. The same pairing were to combine again but sadly for

the home side it was the same outcome. Wasteful in front of goal.

They must have had the feeling of one of those days, which would have

intensified when Shane Cansdell-Sherriff added the visitors

the lead when he put through his own net with 25 minutes to go. The

Minster men were denied a surprise away we went Billy Kee land his

third game in as -- his third goal in as many games.

Morecambe have failed to score in three of the last four games but

veteran midfielder Stuart Drummond went close on two occasions. In the

early exchanges against Bristol Rovers. His second effort just over

the crossbar. It was the Pirates who struck the first blow. John-Joe

O'Toole's fourth in five games came after Barry Roach could only parry a

shot from Matt Harrold. But Morecambe have the best comeback

record in the country. Winning 16 points from losing positions. Four

minutes before the hour, Padraig Amond stuck away the equaliser from

Drummond's flick on. His second goal in his last 13 appearances. He had a

superb chance to notch another one from close range. It looks like a

point apiece but it was last season's top scorer Jack Redshaw who

gleefully put away the winner after Jack Sampson's header came back off

the post. This was another magnificent comeback from Morecambe.

No fewer than five home-grown players began Exeter's game at

Accrington. 20-year-old Tom Nichols was making his first start of the

season and halted Stanley's recent revival with two goals in 11

minutes. After seven league games without a win the Grecians had

slipped down the table and were second favourites here. But Tom

Nichols' double strike got them off to a flyer. And things were to get

even better for porters Dale -- for Paul Tisdale's side. They

effectively confirmed three points inside 24 minutes when Alan Gow made

it 3-0. This much fun was far from straightforward. Peter Murphy's

glancing header just before the interval gave Accrington the

faintest sniff of a comeback. When they grabbed another just the other

side of half-time, James Beattie's side began to believe. Kal Naismith

made it another goal. Exeter might have made the points more secure

when they were awarded a penalty. Man of the match Tom Nichols was

caught. Alan Gow saw his spot kick saved. Fortunately for him Exeter

were able to see out every second half. -- a nervy second half.

Mansfield have lost six on the trot and looked far from solid. Luke

Moore was unable to punish this mistake. Otherwise not much on it in

the first half with the Dons depleted by injuries. They continued

to spurn their best chances. Barry Fuller's effort going over the

crossbar. They regretted those as the match wore on with Mansfield

turning the screw. The home keeper Ross Warner became the afternoon's

outstanding performer. Mansfield on the scent of their first victory

since September but lost I was denied as the division's longest

winless run continued, now 11 games. Cheltenham made a first -- a fast

start against Hartlepool. There was panic between Austin and Flinders,

leaving Jermaine McGlashan to tapping in the fourth minute.

Hartlepool have failed to find the net in their previous two matches

but gave warning of what was to follow when Jonathan Franks severely

tested the Robins keeper, Scott Brown. Whilst Brown was equalled to

that, opposite number flinders could do little about Kemar Roofe's first

senior goal, seven minutes before half-time. The Robins must have

thought they were home and dry but they had defensive frailties of

their own. Jonathan Franks clinically exploited it for his

first goal in 16 games. While Flinders had clearly not recovered

from the first half with this wayward Gold Cup, Jermaine McGlashan

could not make him pay and put the game beyond doubt. It was a missed

chance the Robins would be left to rue was Jonathan Franks sealed the

point with the game -- with the goal of the game. Their first away point

for two months. Two weeks after being sacked by

Barnsley, David Flitcroft took charge of his first game. They got

off with an excellent start against Northampton. The referee here

pointing to the penalty spot. It looked a very harsh call. But

Nardielo showed no mercy from 12 yards. Six minutes later,

Northampton were level. Dean Howell lost his bearings inside his own

box, and headed into his own net. Berry responded well to the setback.

There were two chances in quick succession to restore the lead. The

first was brilliantly saved before Northampton regrouped to deny the

former Crystal Palace midfielder. The final one missed from the spot.

A foul by Dean Howell on the edge of the box. But a wasteful spot kick

which summed up the match. Both sides remain in deep trouble.

Not the win David Flitcroft wanted on his first appearance as Bury

manager. The top three in the division all one. Imperative that

Oxford got the result. Dave Kitson popping up with a late goal and this

time a winner. A great ball in. He gets in front of

the defender. As he gets up, he timed that job perfectly. There was

only one place that ball was going to finish. A surprise in result has

to be Torquay turning over Southend. Only their second win in 12.

Southend are unbeaten in the league. A terrific result. It gets them in

touch. They are now level on points with Southampton. A game away from

going up four or five places. It could give them renewed vigour and

belief they can get out of it. It is still very tight. Some good strikers

in John Marquis. They can make the difference.

Logistically, it will always be difficult to get players down there.

So it may be a case of bringing people down and making a difference.

Let's have a look at the tables. QPR took advantage of Leicester and

Burnley's draw, to return to the top of the Sky Bet Championship, for the

first time since late September. Away wins for Derby, Reading and

Leeds keeps the pressure on the top three.

Watford's fifth straight home league defeat sees them drop into the

bottom half of the table for the first time this season.

Sheffield Wednesday's first away League win since April isn't enough

to move them out of the bottom three. But they are now just a point

from safety. The five teams directly above them

all lost today, to encourage the Owls' chances of survival.

Despite conceding a late equaliser at Bradford, Leyton Orient remain

top of League One, stretching their lead over Wolves to a point, after

Wanderers' first back-to-back League defeats of the season.

Brentford's late win moves them into third, just three points behind

Kenny Jackett's men. Notts County recorded the biggest

win in the Football League today, to move off the bottom for the first

time since October. Shaun Derry's side are now just

three points off safety, after back-to-back victories.

Sheffield United were the only other side in the bottom 11 to win today.

Oxford remain top of League Two, after their late winner against the

Daggers. Fleetwood move into third, while

Southend drop four places to seventh, following their shock

defeat at bottom club Torquay. Torquay's win leaves them just one

point off safety, as no other side in the bottom half won today, which

means just six points separates the bottom ten clubs in League Two.

That's it for tonight. Before we go, though, a quick

reminder, we've got all the drama from the quarterfinals of the

Capital One Cup, on Wednesday night at 11.05, on BBC One.

And, if you want to have your say on today's games via Twitter, use the

hashtag, FLS. And the best of them will be used in

Sunday's live text football commentary on the BBC Sport website.

Steve, thanks for your company. See you on Wednesday. Goodnight.