Watford boss Valerien Ismael accused Haji Wright of punching one of his players in the build-up to Coventry City’s late equaliser in an error-ridden six goal thriller at the CBS Arena.

The Hornets’ manager claimed the Sky Blues striker hit centre-back Ryan Porteous with a “fist in the face” as they tussled at the by-line before the USA international pulled the ball back for Matty Godden to run onto and score a third City equaliser in the 3-3 draw.

Coventry 3-0 Middlesbrough: Matty Godden inspires Sky Blues victory | Football News | Sky Sports

Ismael was frustrated that referee David Webb missed the incident, having also accused him of getting the handball decision wrong that resulted in Coventry being awarded and early penalty, albeit goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann saving Godden’s spot-kick.

“I actually think it was a great game,” he said. “Great attitude from the players and we played some great football. The positive side is we scored three goals in a tough away game, not an easy place to take points.

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“There was a great attitude from (Wesley) Hoedt after conceding a silly (own) goal so I saw a lot of positives, and also having to fight against the referee’s decisions.”

Referring to the first half penalty, he added: “Unbelievable! I can’t understand because before the season we had a meeting with managers, players and referees, and videos and the topic was this sort of penalty

“They told us it won’t be a penalty and it’s a penalty today and it’s difficult to understand the line from the referee. And the third goal is a clear fist in the face for Porteous (from Haji Wright) but ‘play on’.

“It was a fist, not a hand. I know Ryan Porteous well, really strong, and we saw the clear footage. I can’t understand the linesman who was next to him.”

Asked if he spoke the match officials, he said: “It makes no sense to speak the official. Before every game we have a meeting and then during the game what happens is completely different. I just learn again it makes no sense to discuss.

“Under these circumstances you have to take one point. Overall we are still moving in the right direction and it’s a good feeling.”