Coventry Sphinx travelled to St Neots Town knowing exactly how important this game was. With 20th playing 22nd, both teams were desperate for points to climb out of the relegation zone. What followed at the Premier Plus Stadium was an away day the Sphinx supporters won’t forget, as a refreshed and rebuilt squad delivered three goals, three points and a performance full of promise.

It’s been a hectic few weeks behind the scenes. Manager Joe Conneely has worked tirelessly to bring in new staff and new players. Many of them have barely trained together, yet they were thrown straight into a relegation battle. The big question was whether this new‑look Sphinx side could gel quickly enough to get a result.

The last meeting between the clubs ended in a 3–2 defeat for Sphinx, but St Neots’ form has collapsed since then. Bottom of the table and desperate, they needed something to spark their season. Sphinx, only slightly better off, needed the win just as much. From the first whistle, the tension was obvious.

The opening stages were fast, physical and full of intent. St Neots went direct, while Sphinx looked sharper on the break, pressing high and forcing mistakes. The travelling fans sensed something different about this performance.

Their belief was rewarded in the 33rd minute. A well‑worked set piece was whipped into the box, and debutant Raymond Poku rose highest to head home for 1–0. A debut game, a debut goal and a celebration full of pride. He already looked like he belonged in blue and white.

Sphinx saw out the rest of the half with control and discipline, keeping St Neots at bay. At half‑time, the visitors led 1–0 and confidence was growing both on the pitch and in the stands.

The second half continued with the same intensity. Both sides pushed forward, knowing the next goal could decide the match. St Neots threw players forward, but Sphinx’s defence, criticised in recent weeks, stood firm. Every tackle and clearance was met with huge noise from the away end.

Then came the moment that sent those fans wild.

In the 63rd minute, another new signing, Jared Bradshaw, found space outside the box. He struck the ball cleanly, lifting it over the keeper. It clipped the inside of the post and dropped into the net. A brilliant first goal at Step 4 and a huge moment for Sphinx, who now led 2–0.

St Neots looked stunned. Their early aggression faded, replaced by frustration. Sphinx, meanwhile, grew in confidence, moving the ball with a swagger that has been missing for too long. Conneely’s new recruits weren’t just settling in, they were shining!

In the 85th minute, substitute Jamal Adams burst past the St Neots defence with blistering pace. He squared the ball perfectly for Poku, who tapped in his second of the match to make it 3–0. A dream debut for the forward and a moment that sealed a huge win.

When the final whistle blew, the Sphinx players celebrated together with relief and pride. Three goals, three points and out of the relegation zone for now. After a tough few weeks, this was a performance they fully deserved.

This wasn’t just a win. It was a statement. A sign that the rebuild is working. A reminder that Coventry Sphinx are far from finished.

Next up is Rushden & Diamonds at home on Tuesday night.
If the result is anything to go by, Sphinx might just be ready to build something.

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