As a statement of Coventry's ability to withstand the loss of Dion Dublin it was not clever to bow out of the League Cup at the hands of a Second Division side. But Luton's praises may be sung for a merited victory.

They scored early in the second half through Phil Gray and then gained late breathing space when the outstanding Steve Davisheaded a second following Graham Alexander's corner.

With Dublin discussing personal terms at Blackburn, Coventry moved Noel Whelan across to partner Darren Huckerby. There were three other changes from the side beaten at Southampton at the weekend, Paul Telfer reinstated and returning for the first time to his former club.

The Scottish winger is a prime example of the health of Luton's scouting system and their ability to bring young talent to the fore. Many more examples filled the home ranks last night, relishing this opportunity to test their wits against Premiership power.

Davis, a rarity in that he cost the Second Division side money, was the first to threaten, however, from a deflected free-kick.

Coventry had difficulty prising themselves out of Luton's rigid offside trap and Gordon Strachan showed his displeasure with Huckerby from the touchline.

Just before half-time Phil Gray almost conjured an outrageous goal with a flick of his heel that sent the ball looping towards the top of the net before Hedman palmed it over. Then Gary Breen got into difficulty attempting to check Stewart Douglas's tricky run and almost put through his own goal.

In contrast Luton were bright and quick to move the ball across the sodden surface. In the 50th minute they took the lead with a splendidly constructed goal. Davis, a vital presence at both ends of the field, released Sean Evers down the right and his controlled low cross was bundled in by Gray.

Luton: K Davis, Alexander, Thomas, Spring, S Davis, Johnson, Evers, McKinnon, Douglas (Fotiadis 89), Gray, McGowan. Subs Not Used: White, Abbey, McIndoe, McLaren. Booked: Alexander, S Davis. Goals: Gray 50, S Davis 78.

Coventry: Hedman, Brightwell, M Hall, Telfer, Shaw, Breen, P Hall (Soltvedt 61), Whelan, Huckerby, McAllister, Boateng. Subs Not Used: Williams, Wallemme, Clement, Ogrizovic. Booked: Brightwell, Whelan.

Referee: C Wilkes (Gloucester).