In the final extra time of the Championship play-off semi-final, Coventry City suffered a dramatic last-minute goal and drew 1-1 with Sunderland, losing 2-3 on aggregate and shattering their Wembley dream. Sunderland won the game with a header from Daniel Ballard in the 122nd minute and successfully advanced to the play-off final against Sheffield United on May 24.

After the game, Coventry coach Frank Lampard admitted in an interview that this was "one of the cruelest moments" in his career.

Lampard said: "First of all, congratulations to Sunderland for reaching the final. But I am extremely proud of my players. In these two games, we dominated at home and we also controlled the tempo of the game for most of the night."

"The performance of these players in the second half of the season was outstanding, from last December when we were 17th in the league to now reaching the semi-finals of the play-offs. We faced a team with a relegation subsidy, but we fought to the end."

"We came here with a fearless attitude and played our style. They had to retreat because we were in control. I feel bad for the players, they didn't deserve it. I'm older and have experienced more, so I can keep some balance. But for these young players, it was a harsh blow."

Lampard added: "I want to emphasize again that we were the better side in the two legs, there is no doubt about that. They will be happy with this victory because they know it was not easy to win. We lost with honor and I can't ask for more."

"I feel sorry for the club, the fans, the owner and the players. But when the dust settles, I will not be disappointed with the performance of this game. Their execution and unity on the field are so admirable."

"I barely spoke in the locker room because the players knew they were in control of the game until overtime. They controlled the second half and silenced the atmosphere at home."

"That's football, it's cruel. But I feel nothing but pride. We wanted to go to Wembley but fate played a trick on us."

"We want this team to be even stronger in the future. The players have proven their ability and that they can compete. The Coventry fans deserve this honour."

"I'm sure they will be disappointed tonight but proud of the performance of the players. It's a pity that they missed a chance to go to Wembley."