‘WE’LL HAVE A PLAN FOR TOMLIN’ BRISTOL CITY v BLUEBIRDS PREVIEW – FANS’ INSIGHT…

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

It’s being dubbed the biggest Severnside derby in recent years and if previous results are anything to go by, it should be a tremendous encounter.

The Bluebirds make the short journey to Aston Gate as Neil Warnock and his men are hosted by Bristol City this Saturday lunch time (12pm). I asked Bristol City fan Tom Wallis (T0Mwallis_) on his view for the upcoming game…

With just four points separating the two teams going into the Severnside derby, are you looking at this as a six-pointer?

I think regardless of Saturday’s result, both teams will finish at least in the play-offs. They’ve looked strong from the start, and if they can stay in form and react well to a dip in form (if they have one) then I can see both teams finishing high this season.

You haven’t had the best of luck when playing the Bluebirds. However, with the form you’re in, are you optimistic of your chances?

In my opinion, I think we can beat anyone at our best. Unfortunately, against Leeds, the players didn’t turn up and the result showed that. However, if we continue our fine form of late, I am very optimistic of the result.

What’s been the key to this Lee Johnson side to this season in contrast to last?

I think the depth in squad has helped us a lot this season. If someone unfortunately gets an injury; I am confident that someone can come in to replace him.

Lee Tomlin helped inspire the Bluebirds to a midweek win Tuesday night versus Ipswich Town. Being a former Robin, what sort of reception do you see him getting at Ashton Gate come Saturday?

I think he’ll get a mixed reception. He was loved by the fans and he loved us the same. However, the fact he moved to Cardiff will play a massive part in the reception he’ll get.

Who’s the danger man that Neil Warnock and his men should be looking this weekend?

In terms of a danger man, I cannot think of anyone in particular. Loanee Jonathon Leko is definitely a danger when he’s on form and obviously top scorer Bobby Reid.

What memory sticks out the most when playing the Bluebirds and why?

I have one really fond memory. That being a 3-0 home win for us, with current manager Lee Johnson scoring I believe. Sticks out because I think it was a bit of a shock for us.. or me in particular.

Prediction?

– Close game. 1-0 either way.

Bristol City v Bluebirds – Head to Head:

This Saturday will be the 91st competitive meeting between both teams and it’s the Robins that scrape the head-to-head record winning 36 while 21 resulted in stalemates. 

The latest encounter between the pair came last season in a thrilling 3-2 victory for the Bluebirds at Ashton Gate. Goals from Kadeem Harris and two via Anthony Pilkington helped the Bluebirds complete the double over Lee Johnson’s side.

Cardiff City last endured defeat via the Robins in a 4-2 away loss in August 2012 during Malky Mackay’s promotion winning season. However, with better days returning to Ashton Gate, the Bristol City faithful will no doubt be up for the challenge this time round.

Recent Form:

The Bluebirds have seen a slight dip of form of late while still keeping themselves within touching distance off top spot currently maintained by Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Warnock’s side have accumulated eight points out of a possible 15 being frustrated by both Millwall and Derby County while enduring defeat away at Birmingham City. 

In contrast, the Robins may have found a recipe for success being bettered only by Leeds United at home in their last five league encounters. Johnson and his teams’ recent run of form have cut the gap on leaders Wolves to just five points and would go a long way if they were to best the Bluebirds.

Both teams go into the game on the back of victories. Bristol City managed to sink sorry Fulham at Cravan Cottage 2-0 courtesy of goals via both Bobby Reid and Korey Smith in a perfect counter-attacking away performance.

Meanwhile, the Bluebirds will also look to build on three points following a 3-1 home victory at the Cardiff City Stadium versus Ipswich in midweek. Former Robins man Lee Tomlin helped inspire the win that was more than deserved.

Johnson on Cardiff and Tomlin:

“Cardiff have one of the lowest stats for ‘ball in play’ so we know what sort of game to expect. It could be a tight, cagey affair but last year was a great contest, even if I was disappointed to lose the match. They’ll [Cardiff] have a strong group, they’ve recruited well. Neil has a good record but it’s about 11 v 11 on the pitch.”

“If Neil decides to play Lee Tomlin then we’ll have a plan for him, like any player. I don’t know what reception he’ll get.”

 

Sky Bet Odds:

Bristol City: 7/5

Draw: 12/5

Bluebirds: 19/10

Prediction: 1-1

 

 

‘Cardiff are going backwards’ Aston Villa Preview – My Insight…

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

Two wins on the trot; more than 20,000 expected for Aston Villa and a well rested Kenneth Zohore – should the Bluebirds feel optimistic going into Saturday? Well, Villa fan Nigel.G (@nigel_gadd) think not.

Despite a fairly subdued first game of the league season against Hull City – Villa follower Nigel had no second thoughts when claiming Neil Warnock’s men were going ‘backwards’ via last seasons’ campaign… 

You opened your league account with a 1-1 draw versus Hull City, was it disappointing not to take all three?

‘The draw with Hull was disappointing to go in only 1-0 at half time with the misses from Gabby and Hogan. The second-half Hull played better and our back-line was under a lot of pressure. My main negative is Lansbury taking the set pieces, he could not find a Villa head.’

You’ve been sensible (like Cardiff) this transfer window, are you confident it’ll fill the bookies’ expectations of promotion?

‘Promotion is a must, Bruce is under intense pressure to get finish in the top two. I don’t think we’re favourites but we have a hell of a chance as long as our strikers can find the back of the net while the defence looks solid.’

A bit of conflict flared last season with Neil Warnock and Jack Grealish – he’ll miss the game as well as a few others, but what did you make of the friction between the pair?

‘Warnock is a fiery chap and Grealish is an idiot, enough said.’

Your previous encounter at the CCS wasn’t memorable for you – are you more confident of getting a result this time round?

‘I think Cardiff are going backwards and can see them in the bottom half by season end. I can see Villa winning this encounter 0-2.’

Bluebirds v Aston Villa – Head to head:

Of the 47 league games between the pair, it’s Steve Bruce’s men who have the edge. Villa have bettered the Bluebirds on 23 occasions (48.94%) with as little as 5 draws (10.64%) in the process.

The last league encounter between the two teams was a 2-0 victory for then Villa gaffer Ron Saunders at Villa Park (1976) in the old second division.

Nonetheless, on home soil, the Bluebirds make sure that home advantage is key with 13 wins (56.52%) in the bag and with an enormous crowd expected, let’s just say the 12th man could decide the outcome.

Recent Form:

Despite the grass still too fresh to judge this early on into the season; it’ll be the Cardiff City faithful full of elation. The soaring Bluebirds were the victors away at Burton Albion on the opening day and also knocked out League One outfit Portsmouth with a new-look team resting the likes of Zohore; Sol Bamba and Neil Etheridge. 

Goals from Nathaniel Mendez-Laing and Greg Halford made sure Cardiff progressed to the next round of the Carabao Cup. 

Highlights: Cardiff City 2-1 Portsmouth – EAT…

“We had a few words at half-time (0-1 down), but I thought second-half we were superb, really. Our fitness and everything else showed – even Kenny Jackett said we deserved it.” – Warnock told iFollow Cardiff City following their cup win versus Pompey.

The draw for the second round will take place following Bury v Sunderland (10th August) on Sky Sports.

Sky Bet odds: 

Bluebirds: 13/8

Aston Villa: 9/5

Draw: 21/10

My Prediction: Bluebirds 1 – 1 Aston Villa

Newcastle United Preview – Hardwell’s Insight

Following Neil Warnock’s first defeat as Bluebirds boss last weekend, courtesy of a late Jordi Gomez strike that gifted Wigan Athletic the three-points – the Bluebirds will be looking for bounce back ability. What easier way to do it than an away trip to league leaders Newcastle United?

I ask Newcastle United fan Gary Briggs his thoughts on the visiting Bluebirds and what Neil Warnock’s men need to do in order to come away with anything from St.James’ Park…

How are you feeling about the visit of the Bluebirds this Saturday?

‘Feeling confident – Cardiff City have made a great appointment in Neil Warnock, but right now, we fear no-one.’

What weakness(‘) would you be worried about being exposed by your side?

‘Paul Dummett can occasionally lose concentration at fullback. So maybe if your wide players are on their game, it can cause problems.’

Who is the player that the Bluebirds should watch out for?

‘Yoan Gouffran, always underestimated and can be a real handful.’

If you could take any player from the Cardiff City squad, who and why?

‘Rickie Lambert can still do the job and would fit in with our squad.’

What’s your greatest memory when playing the Bluebirds?

‘Not a NUFC v CCFC match, but still very much related to the occasion – Watching Craig Bellamy play with such pride and passion for his hometown club towards the end of his career. Especially when he turned down better offers from elsewhere.’

Thoughts on controversial striker Michael Chopra for the Toon?

‘So much talent! Such a shame that he let himself be distracted from football.’

Score prediction?

‘Newcastle United  3 -1 Cardiff City’

Bluebirds v Newcastle United – Head to head:

Of the 51 competitive matches played between the two football clubs, Newcastle United have won 23 (45.10%). In contrast, the Bluebirds have only managed to win 16 (31.37%) of the 51 games played.

In most recent times, it would be one to forget for the Cardiff City faithful. The last encounter ensured the Bluebirds’ fate as they were relegated to the Championship having lost 3-0 at St.James’ Park, dating back to the 3rd May, 2014.

The Bluebirds have not taken all three-points from St. James’ Park since 1963, in a 4-0 victory. However, records are there to be broken…

Recent Form:

An Aleksandar Mitrovic brace last weekend made it 6 wins out of 7 in the league, as Rafael Benitez’s side overcame Preston 2-1, at Deepdale.

The Toons’ last defeat was at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers (2-0) and Neil Warnock will hope to put a stop to Newcastle United’s rampages run since then.

The Bluebirds’ brilliant start under Neil Warnock came to an unfortunate end, as they were bested 1-0 at the CCS by Wigan Athletic, last weekend.

Warncock, 67, felt the officials did have a say in the game, despite the Bluebirds not being ruthless enough in front of goal.

“I thought we could have got a few more decisions against Pilkington – he was molested a few times and not got the decisions,” Warnock told BBC Sport.

“If you don’t take your chances then you have no chance, and it felt like we were always going to get caught with a sucker punch at the end and that’s what happened.”

How should Neil Warnock approach the visit to St. James’ Park?

Without being too critical about the Bluebirds, I think the best method would be to put on an ugly show for the neutrals. Man for man, I think it can be fair to say, our hosts would seem to have more power and drive and an intimidating atmosphere such as St. James’ Park can only aid to the home sides’ advantage.

I think Bruno Manga and Matthew Connolly (if fit) would need to comeback in place for skipper Sean Morrison (giving Gunnars’ captaincy) and right-back Lee Peltier, who didn’t exactly star in the defeat to Wigan.

It would seem that Dwight Gayle may feature in time for Saturday after shacking off a hamstring injury. Physical strength and pace up top with Dwight Gale can be a nuisance – with Bruno following the lively forward and Sol Bamba being the covering defender could well prove effective in keeping the hosts at bay.

Shifting Pilks’ (Pilkington) out wide to add some strength against the fullbacks could assist in retaining possession – this can keep the pressure off the City back-line with Craig Noone being the impact sub. In doing so, I think giving Marouane Chamakh his full debut could make all the difference. Unlike Pilks’, Chamakh is a centre-forward who would rather wait for the service, as preferred to getting mixed up in the play and creating opportunities.

Rather than chasing down a solid and compact back-line, the former Arsenal and Crystal Palace striker maybe better off preserving his stamina for when the opportunity arises. Much like the chances missed against Wigan.

Prediction: Newcastle United 2 – 0 Bluebirds 

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

Why Neil Warnock Can Take a Leaf Out of Brian McDermott’s Book

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

Only two games into Neil Warnock’s Cardiff City reign and the 68-year-old has already stolen the blue hearts of many fans within the Welsh capital. The question is, just how far can the new Bluebirds boss take his team?

 Given Neil’s CV across his 16 football clubs managed and record 7 promotions celebrated – the man only heaps pressure on himself, wherever he may go. However, it’s pressure I’m sure is welcome and the challenge he aspires to in keeping him in the game, even at his respected age.

Given the circumstances that Paul Trollop left the Bluebirds in picking up just 8-points from 11 games, the minimum expectation would surely be to keep the club in the league and the realistic target being a top half finish.

After just his first game at the CCS (Cardiff City Stadium), it almost feels as if he’s already done half the job by beating severnside rivals Bristol City 2-1 thanks to goals from Peter Whittingham and a debut goal for Sol Bamba.

 

The platform now seems set for Neil Warnock and it’s now up to him to go and perform on it.

Following a 1-1 stalemate in Neil’s latest game at the CCS against high-flying Sheffield Wednesday, Warnock still feels plenty more is to come from his side.

“We will get a lot fitter and a lot sharper in the next couple of weeks,” Warnock told BBC Wales.

“We were second best in a lot of area in this game, but we were not second best in what we had under our shirts.

“I thought we were superb in that regard and the fans appreciated that really.”

 With the Bluebirds sat in 22^nd position in the Championship standings after thirteen games, thinking of landing a play-off place maybe slightly too optimistic. However, the Bluebirds faithful still have hope of pulling a run together under their new boss. So, the question remains, just how do you string such a run together?

If you rewind back to the 2011 – 2012 season with Brian McDermotts’ Reading side, something like a miracle was achieved at the Madejski Stadium. Just a few months into the season and Reading found themselves worried of a bumpy ride ahead sitting 17^th and with not much positives to give the team any sort of encouragement.

However, a miraculous run of 15 victories out of 17 helped guide McDermott’s team promotion to the Barclays Premier League rightfully earning McDermott ‘League Managers Association Championship Manager of the Year’.

Maybe insisting that Warnock can take inspiration from a fellow manager that succeeded him at Leeds United can seem a tad sacrilegious. However, it’s ambition and the type of drive that the supporters feel more than capable of achieving with the players available to Neil at the helm.

Warnock’s next challenge ahead is a visit to Nottingham Forest on Saturday in the gaffers first away game as Bluebirds boss and the City faithful will be hoping to see plenty more “blood and guts” from the team.

So, just how far can Neil Warnock and his troops go in the league? Shall it be a fairy tale come true, or will it all prove to be a bit anticlimactic for the Bluebirds?

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

Paul Trollope Must Stick To His Guns and Not Swallow His Pride Over “Welsh Way”

New Bluebirds boss Paul Trollope has only managed to obtain 5 points from his 7 opening league games and many fans have blamed the “Welsh way” that Trollope has attempted to mauled into the club – but is there a bigger picture to the missing Cardiff City puzzle?

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

It’s Cardiff’s worst start to a season in 11 years, and with a big game against Leeds United at Saturday lunchtime; Trollope has already hinted at possible alterations in both formation and team line-ups this Friday morning.

“We know there’s need to be adaptable and flexible. And I’ve said all along you need a way to win and if it needs a change of shape we will and I’m not afraid to do it, but if I think it’s right way to go forward I’ll stick with it and persevere.

 – Trollope told Wales online Friday morning.
Criticising a system that the Bluebirds faithful have only seen when watching their national side at the CCS this quickly can be a very easy conclusion. However, attention can revert to team selection. With all due respect; Kadeem Harris and Declan John aren’t exactly going to give you the robust challenges you need when defending. Whereas the likes of Jazz Richards and Joe Bennett (when fit) could do a job in both departments.

Another area that needs to be addressed is the goalkeeping situation. Yes, Ben Wilson has not looked anything like David Marshall between the sticks, but, what can you expect from a young keeper who just made his 3rd league appearance for the club?

It can be a way of playing or a game plan for Trollope by playing 5 at the back. However, what more can unsettle that 5 when you have a goalkeeper that, with respect, is not ready for this level just yet.

Criticism on young Wilson has been more than harsh, to say the least. Saturday could see the City boss address this issue and if so, it would seem to be the right call on the basis of things.

“He knows himself (Ben Wilson) mistakes have been made over the last game or so and he’ll look to rectify that. We have competition for places, it’s ready, the group has worked hard and I’ve got a decision.

With probably Cardiff’s most influential player not seeing the game-time he merits; Peter Whittingham looks set to reenter the frame in a position Trollope probably sees him in the Joe Allen (much to the revolt reaction from the Bluebird fans at such a comparison) type of role.

“Peter Whittingham played right through pre-season and every league game up to Norwich, we wanted to go a slightly different way and Aron Gunnarsson had a fantastic game at Norwich, but Peter has big part to play and will have a massive role in what we want to do.”

As the penny drops for Paul Trollope and his team, it would seem that the best move would be to alter the players at hand; not the system. If the system was to be dropped versus Leeds United, has the jigsaw and most importantly, has Trollope’s pride in the “Welsh way” been thrown out of the window at the expense of 7 league games?

With Anthony Pilkington leading the goals (3) for the team from the Welsh capital and Shane Duffy comically in close attendance with his double against his own Blackburn Rovers side at the CCS, surely things can only look up?

Article by Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ben Turner: England’s Star Centre-Back… That Never Was!

By Sam Hardwell

@HardwellSam

Ben Turner made 121 appearances for the Bluebirds. However, was the decision by the football club to release the English born defender a smart one? Is Ben Turner Cardiff City’s best England international that never was? I take a look at what might have been for the man they called ‘Big Ben’.

After being unfavoured through injury at Coventry City, Ben Turner made the switch to the Welsh capital for a reported fee of £750,000 in August 2011, courtesy of passing a fitness test. It took Big Ben till the 1st October that year to make his first Cardiff City appearance after overcoming a knee injury. He was a late substitute coming onto the field away at Hull City.

Turner’s full league debut came two-weeks later, a 2-2 draw versus Ipswich Town. From then onwards, the centre-back was a regular for the Bluebirds alongside then club captain, Mark Hudson.

Come February 2012, Malky Mackay and his Cardiff City team were both contesting for a place in the Championship Play-Offs, as well as preparing themselves for a League Cup Final against English giants Liverpool. The cup final saw Turner put in a Terry Butcher like performance at a packed Wembley Stadium, keeping the likes of Steven Gerrard; Luis Suarez and even former Bluebirds forward, Craig Bellamy at bay.

The Carling Cup Final was eventually one by Liverpool, despite a late Ben Turner tap-in to take Liverpool to penalties.

Ben Turner’s Late Goal at Wembley v Liverpool

The following season saw Ben Turner grow stronger, along with his teammates. This proved, as the Bluebirds won promotion to the Premier League as Champions. With the top goalscorer only netting eight (Aaron Gunnarson) in the 2012/2013 campaign, speaking volumes of the Bluebirds’ defensive prowess. Turner was a regular at the heart of the defense that season.

With the Premier League being a completely different kettle of fish, big summer signings were expected, much to the worry of both Turner and Hudson.

With Premier League experience needed in the back-line for City, it was former Swansea City centre-back Steven Caulker who put pen to paper in a deal worth up to £8-million.

However, come the opening day of Cardiff’s first ever Premier League season, it was captain Mark Hudson that found himself among the substitutes bench. As Turner and Caulker found their feet together as a strong partnership at the back.

The pair performed admirably in the first half of the Bluebirds’ Premier League season, with wins against Manchester City and arch rivals Swansea being the highlights. Under Malky Mackay, Turner, as well as the rest of the Cardiff side, looked to be a fit and compact unit. “They’re one of the fittest sides in the league, not many teams are going to be picking up points from here (Cardiff City Stadium).” – Arsène Wenger following his Arsenal teams’ 3-0 victory at Cardiff.

If Turner was ever to play for his national side, it would be fair to say, that this was the prime point in his playing career to do so. However, it seemed almost ironic that just as the Birmingham born defender was making his case for an England call-up, extraordinary scenes off the pitch at the football club would result in Malky Mackay losing his post as Cardiff City manager.

With the arrival of former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjær being announced as the new manager, the Bluebirds looked to take attention back onto the pitch in an attempt to avoid relegation. However, with every manager, comes alternative impacts. From a fans’ point of view, the impact was not a positive one. The players looked deprived of teamwork; desire, commitment, passion and work ethic – all these attributes seemed to have vanished along with Mackay.

OGS (Ole Gunnar Solskjær) almost seemed to be out to perplex the Cardiff City faithful, with constant squad rotations, especially at the back. With the only guaranteed place at the back being for Steven Caulker; while Juan Cala (a new signing by OGS), Mark Hudson and Ben Turner constantly rotated, no matter what shift being put in by any of the trio.

Turner, however, did show glimpses of his own defensive qualities along with the likes of David Marshall. Most notably, Big Ben stole the praises from Marshall winning Man of the Match in a 0-0 stalemate at home versus Aston Villa. This was despite the Scotland goalkeepers’ save of the season from a late Andreas Weimann effort. However, Turner was subsequently dropped for the following league game in a 4-0 home defeat at home to Hull City, with the Cardiff faithful asking among themselves, ‘How has he dropped Turner after the Villa match?’.

Cardiff were eventually relegated back to the Championship for the 2015/2016 season, dampening any chances Ben Turner had of an England call-up, for now.

Turner was unlucky to be hit by injury upon Cardiff’s return to the Championship, and was eventually loaned back to former club Coventry, in aid of some much needed fitness. He scored on his first appearance back at the Sky Blues and made several appearances before picking up an ankle injury, resulting in an immediate return to the Bluebirds.

After overcoming the injury, Turner fortunately made it in time for the final game of the 15/16 season against Birmingham in a 1-1 draw, in which Turner played well above merit. Unfortunately, it would prove to be the defenders’ last for the club, as he was not offered a new deal to stay put, and now looks elsewhere for a new club.

“There were never any negotiations. I won’t say I was surprised but I’m genuinely disappointed,” Turner said.

“I would have been open to structure my contract in a way that would have suited me and the club.”

“Ken was honest, he said it was a business decision by the club and he thinks it’s best that I look elsewhere,” he told BBC Wales Sport.

In some way, I do hope Big Ben finds the club that utilities his strengths to benefit his playing career. And I do also hope that he proves the club made the wrong decision in axing the player. Maybe, in an ideal world, if kept fit under Malky Mackay, it would have been a different story. Not only for the club, but for Turner, also.

Only time shall tell… Good luck Big Ben!

 

 

Match Report: Cardiff City 0 – 1 Shrewsbury Town

Published by Sam Hardwell

@HardwellSam

10th January 2016

Shrewsbury shock Bluebirds as a second-half Andrew Mangan header sends the Welsh side out of the FA Cup. 

CHRONOLOGICAL MATCH REPORT:

Russell Slade made nine changes following his sides 1-0 home win to Blackburn Rovers last weekend. In contrast, Micky Mellon made five adjustments to last weeks team who were thumped 7-1 at the hands of Chesterfield Town. The XI including a start for former and controversial Bluebirds defender Anthony Gerrard.

It was the visitors who had the first sniff on goal inside the opening 30-seconds. Forward Andrew Mangan easily turning Bruno Manga on the edge of the box with the deflected shot resulting in a corner, as the Bluebirds looking around each other with sheer disbelief.

As the game had the feeling of a reserve match fixture, Shrewsbury were looking to make sure any City fans inside the CCS stayed silent. The lively Larnell Cole with a positive run and shot from 25-yards deflected for his sides second corner of the game, as City struggled to settle into the game.

City snuffed out their first chance of the game after 14-minutes and fair to stay, over due. Former City defender Anthony Gerrard scuffed his kick with Macheda picking up the loose ball and fed fellow strike partner Alex Revell. The shot on goal also taking a deflection wide with brave defending.

The resulting corner eventually being put wide by Bruno Manga from the penalty spot on the half-volley. Decent attempt for a defender, an agonising one for a forward.

Since the Gerrard mistake, the Bluebirds smelt blood and produced their best spell of the game so far on the 21-minute mark. Great interchange of play via Peter Whittingham and Scott Malone by the touch-line, with the low cross by the full-back being put wide on the stretch from experienced forward Alex Revell.

While the Bluebirds looked to build patiently, Macheda had other ideas as he skipped past one and shot in his stride with the ‘keeper only able to parry into the path of Revell, who snatched at his chance from an acute angle.

The former Manchester United forward seemed to inspire the Bluebirds as Whittingham threatened the heart of the defence. It was his squared ball that found its way through Revell’s legs into the path of Ameobi, coming onto his preferred left-foot and struck the post from just inside the box.

It seemed as if Ameobi started to picture the Shrewsbury players as training cones, evading all of four defenders on the edge of the box opening a shot on goal. However, nothing but catching practice for ‘keeper Mark Halstead.

Just before half-time, Shrewsbury goalkeeper Halstead did his best to keep out a Scott Malone cross come shot from an awkward angle. However, it was not as awkward as the half-time boos from the very few City fans in attendance.

HALF-TIME: CARDIFF CITY 0 – 0 SHREWSBURY TOWN

GOAL: Cardiff City 0 – 1 Shrewsbury Town (Andrew Mangan, 62 mins)

With a quiet opening to the second-half, it was Shrewsbury who caught the home side napping. An inswinging cross from left-winger Scott Vernon found its way to the back-post, with forward Andrew Mangan heading home as simple as you like from close range.

With the Cardiff City Stadium lacking fans, Shrewsbury lacking possession and the Bluebirds lacking that killer pass – it was written for the underdogs in the cup of shocks to take advantage of their very few chances.

Cardiff City Substitution: Matthew Kennedy replaces Kagisho Dikgacoi  (62 mins)

Despite the score-line, the Bluebirds managed to create the best chance of the game – Fabio with a peach-perfect ball finding Macheda who turned the last man, one-on-one and could only find the legs of the ever present Halstead.

Cardiff City Substitution: Craig Noone replaces Fabio (74 mins)

With just 13-minutes of normal time remaining, Whittingham attempted a rare right-footed shot from range that should have been tame for Halstead’s gloves. But the desperate attempt was spilled with no player in a blue jersey able to capitalise on the loose ball.

Just moments later, another cross from the left again dangering the Bluebirds defence. Clarke getting ahead of his man Scott Malone, but couldn’t seal the tie as he put the ball wide of Moore’s left-hand post.

Cardiff City Substitution: Joe Mason replaces Alex Revell (81 mins) 

Stuart O’Keefe had the very few fans in attendance off their seats, with a first time shot inside the box being brilliantly tipped wide for a corner.

Shrewsbury Town Subsitution: Akpa-Akpro replaces Andrew Mangan (83 mins)

Shrewsbury Town Subsitution: Jermaine Grandison replaces Scott Vernon (83 mins)

Substitute Matthew Kennedy looked to make an emphatic impact near the end as his powerful shot on goal sailed just wide of the top left-hand corner, but eventually finds the blue seats behind the goal.

City thought they had scored when Bruno Manga’s header from a Whittingham corner drifted just wide of the left-hand post, much to the Gabon internationals agony.

With the very last kick of the game, it was Ian Black who struck the outside of Simon Moore’s right-hand post.

FULL-TIME: CARDIFF CITY 0 – 1 SHREWSBURY TOWN

Cardiff City XI: Moore; Fabio, Manga, Tamas, Malone; Ameobi, Dikgacoi, O’Keefe, Whittingham; Revell, Macheda 

Subs Not Used: Marshall, John, Gunnarsson, Oshilaja

Shrewsbury Town XI: Halstead; Sadler, Gerrard, Whitbread, Grimmer, Knight-Percival; Cole, Clark, Black; Mangan, Vernon

Subs Not Used:  Leutwiler, Whalley, Caton, Patterson, Smith

Referee: Peter Banks

MOTM: Zak Whitbread 

Attendance: 4,782

Cardiff City XI of the Decade

By Sam Hardwell
@HardwellSam

10 years ago today, the Bluebirds were still recovering from a heavy 5-1 defeat at the Madejski Stadium with a crowd of over 22,500 watching a rampant Reading side.

Since that calamitous defeat, the Bluebirds have both endured and suffered in what has been a roller coaster decade for the football club. With play-off heart breaks (yes, plural), rebrand, promotion and relegation, they now find themselves 9th in the Sky Bet Championship table, just 4 points adrift of the play-off places at the start of 2016.

But what about the players that have fought for and through both success and dejection?

Here is my Cardiff City XI of the Decade…

(4-4-1-1)

Goal Keeper: David Marshall

Many would not be surprised to see the Scottish international between the sticks for City. Having made over 200 appearances for the Bluebirds since joining in 2009, Marshall has performed heroics for the Welsh capital and even earned himself a place in the Sky Sports’ Premier League ‘Team of the Season’ during their one year stay in the top flight.

Some of the City faithful may debate that former City shot-stopper Neil Alexander deserved his spot in the XI. But, due to Marshall’s commitment and desire to the football club, it is he who gets the nod ahead of his Scottish international team mate.

Right-Back: Kevin Theophile-Catherine

French right-back Kevin Theophile-Catherine (KT) signed for the club  after gaining promotion to the Premier League in 2013 for a reported fee of £2.1 million, making his debut in a 1-1 draw at the KC Stadium (Hull City).

After only  a couple of matches, Theophile’s talents of both defending and going forward was there for all to see with fans quickly forgetting his predecessors in Kevin McNaughton and Mathew Connolly.

Centre-Back: Mark Hudson

Signed from Charlton in 2009, Hudson did not hit the ground running in his opening season with the Bluebirds. With numerous and  unfortunate mistakes costing the team, including an own goal v Leicester in the 2010 play-off semi-final.

When Malky Mackay took charge in 2011, he utilised Hudson’s abilities to his strength and also allowed the skipper to keep the armband, despite the arrival of former Bluebirds captain Craig Bellamy.

In City’s promotion winning season, Hudson was hailed by then team mate Kevin McNaughton as “monumental”.

Centre-Back: Steven Caulker

SWANSEA, WALES – FEBRUARY 08: Steven Caulker of Cardiff in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Swansea City and Cardiff City at the Liberty Stadium on February 8, 2014 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo by Paul Thomas/Getty Images)

Caulker, like Catherine, signed for Cardiff following their promotion to the Premier League in an attempt to avoid relegation. The former Spurs and Bristol City defender was brought to the club for a fee of £8-million and quickly proved value for money, scoring the winner against bitter rivals and his former club Swansea City.

Caulker proved to be a vital asset to both fans and management as he was ever present in City’s Premier League season. He failed to miss a single minute of Premier League football for the club, scoring 5 goals.

Left-Back: Adam Matthews

Predominantly a right-back, Matthews proved he can be flexible in either full-back position and flourished.

Despite having a trial in the Swansea academy, Matthews was eventually brought into the Bluebirds’ youth system. He made his senior debut in one of the opening games of the 09-10 season in a 1-1 draw away at Blackpool coming on to replace Paul Quinn.

Adam used knowledge when defending and ability with pace when going forward. He scored his first ever senior goal at Vicarage Road from the halfway-line in a 4-0 victory, much to opposition keeper Scott Loach’s disappointment.

Matthews was named Football League apprentice of the Year, with Cardiff City academy assistant manager describing the Welsh international as “a shining example to every young player on how to perform on the pitch, and also how to behave off the pitch.”

Centre Midfield (Defensive): Gary Medel

Gary Medel, Cardiff City

Medel was signed from Sevilla for a club record £11 million. Despite not scoring for the club in his single season in the Premier League, fans will still regard the Chilean as a steal.

The man they call ‘El Pitbull’ was instrumental in many key passes and tackling success rates for the Bluebirds – a giveaway in possession would be as probable as today’s Jamie Vardy missing the target.

While City digested relegation from the Premier League, Medel had no time to feel sorry for himself as he helped guide Chile to round 16 in the 2014 World Cup. His heroics in the heart of the defence had some pundits praising him as a “super human”.

Centre Midfield (Box to Box): Jordan Mutch

A real box-to-box midfielder that Cardiff have seemed to lack in the past. Somebody that can create, protect, battle and find the back of the net.

Mutch is an all round midfield player and proved so, by keeping out the illustrious Peter Whittingham towards the end of City’s promotion winning season.

Right-Wing: Chris Burke

With many wingers gracing the football club, Chris Burke stands above the rest purely for the reason of being a workhorse off the ball, as well as being an old fashioned winger. Most notably when occupying a passenger role while being injured. City lead Leicester with a 2-1 margin for the ten men to protect, and soldiered through with huge credibility.

The Scottish winger scored 15 goals in 102 appearances for the Bluebirds.

Left-Wing: Mats Moller Daehli

The Norwegian international made his debut for the Bluebirds in a fourth round FA Cup tie victory away at Bolton. The youngster proved a breath of fresh air out wide after snubbing former club Manchester United to join his former boss, Ole Gunnar Solskaer.

Daehli put in many stupendous performances with his time at the football club. Leaving Ashley Cole for dust on numerous occasions, making Seamas Coleman look like Seamas lost-man. But, most memorably his last gasp goal at the Hawthornes that salvaged a point in a stunning 3-3 draw which was one of the games of the Barclays Premier League season.

Centre Attacking Midfield: Craig Bellamy

Bellamy had two spells in the Welsh capital, and made sure any play-off heart break from his first spell at the club was mended by winning the league in his second.

Bellamy had already gained a credible reputation among some of the big guns within the Barclays Premier League including West Ham, Liverpool and Manchester City.

The former Wales skipper can be utilised on either wing, behind the striker and playing up top. With his work rate, direct pace and a rocket of a right foot, he could pose a major threat to any side.

Following City’s relegation from the top flight, Bellamy announced his retirement from football stating “I guess over the years I’ve become accustomed to the pain from various injuries, but for the last three to four years I’ve been on anti-inflammatories every day. I’m not sure my body will think that’s a wise thing in due course, but it kept me playing for that period. The time has come to stand aside and say enough. My body can’t take anymore.”

Bellamy scored 17 goals in 90 appearance for his hometown club and now has a part-time role in the clubs academy set up.

Striker: Jay Bothroyd

It can be fair to say, that Bothroyd’s career lit up shortly after he put pen to paper on his Bluebirds contract in 2008. Then manager Dave Jones telling the striker on his arrival “I’ll give you the stage and you go out and perform on it.”

Even with a staggering height of 6 ft 3 inches, it did not hold the strikers pace back one bit. Bothroyd also possessed a sweet left foot that caught the eye of many Premier Leagues sides.

His great link up play could bring any other attacker into the game and assisted the likes of Michael Chopra, Ross McCormack and Crag Bellamy on many occasions.

On 13th November 2010, his impressive performances and goal ratio earned him an England call-up in a 2-1 defeat to France coming off the bench. Bothroyd became the first ever Cardiff City player to represent the England senior team in the clubs 111-year history.

Bothroyd went on to score 41-goals in 116 appearances for the club.

By Sam Hardwell
@HardwellSam

 

 

Does Heaton deserve England call-up?

By Sam Hardwell,

@HardwellSam

Current Burnley shot-stopper Tom Heaton earns surprise England call-up after having his Premier League dream short lived after just a single season in the top flight with the Clarets.

Heaton and his Burnley side conceded 53 goals in the 14-15 Premier League season, but England boss Roy Hodgson has overlooked the statistics and has stuck by his decision to call-up the Chester born goalkeeper.

Heaton finds his name alongside a more experienced England pairing between the sticks in both Robert Green and Joe Hart, which indicates minutes maybe limited for the ex-Cardiff and Bristol City keeper. However, he has described the call-up as “indescribable”.

“It’s been a dream of mine since I was a little kid and pretty much everything since I started playing has been geared towards trying to get there.

“Sometimes it’s difficult to see the wood for the trees when you got relegated, but it certainly feels a long way away from that feeling now.”

Heaton praised by Burnley gaffer Sean Dyche

The former Manchester United youth product will be no stranger to a Wembley appearance, if in Hodgson’s future plans, after making an incredible 2012 Carling Cup Final performance for his former Cardiff City side against Liverpool.

It was Heaton himself who helped the Bluebirds on their way to Wembley with two penalty saves in the semi-final versus now Premier League side Crystal Palace.

Heaton proved to be a real pest between the sticks for penalty takers, as he frustrated Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard in the shoot-out with a stupendous save… Maybe something England require in their woeful penalty shoot-out record?

Heaton will now take matters into his own hands (literally) when England travel to the Republic of Ireland on June 7th.

The friendly will be a chance for new comers such as Heaton to make a claim for their place in the XI, as the squad then travel to Slovenia on June 14th in a European Championship Qualifier.

QPR forward Charlie Austin and Leicester’s Luke Vardy have also been selected in Roy Hodgson’s XI.

All three players will be looking to impress in order to consolidate their places for their beloved country.

Does Heaton deserve England call-up?

Why Joe Mason can be Cardiff City’s catalyst next season

By Sam Hardwell

Twitter: @HardwellSam

Irish forward Joe Mason has been in fine form for the Bluebirds towards the end of the 14-15 season since returning from his loan spell at Bolton back in January. 

Throughout most of the 14-15 season, the Bluebirds seemed to lack creativity and a rock hard defense. However, upon Joe Mason’s return from injury after a more than remarkable loan spell at Bolton, one of these problems were at least rectified.

Plymouth born Mason marked his return from injury being subbed on in the second-half of Cardiff’s away trip to Reading back in early April, as the Bluebirds trailed the Royals one-nil. The 24-year-old showed signs of flair yet to be tapped as he saw his side grab a late point courtesy of Connor McAlaney’s stunning strike.

Mason found himself in Slade’s first-team plans sooner rather than later following the departure of Kenwyne Jones who was loaned to eventual Championship title winners Bournemouth, much to the disbelieve of the Cardiff City faithful.

Despite having no realistic target man up-top in a 4-4-1-1 system, Mason fitted just in behind former Chesterfield striker Eoin Doyle, and the pair seemed to gel quicker than expected in the final six games of the season.

With only six goals between both Mason and Doyle, gaffer Russell Slade was quick to praise the movement of the Bluebirds’ front duo.

“The movement between the pair is key, they compliment each other.” Slade told Wales Online

“One will go long and one will go short and the link up has improved as a partnership for the sake of the team.”

With the summer transfer window soon approaching, Slade has been given the green light by owner Vincent Tan to obtain his potential targets for the 15-16 Championship champagne .

“Vincent’s already given the go ahead for a couple of targets,” he said.

“We’ve got two or three little packages lined up for him to review and see if we get some joy from them.”

Whoever Slade will bring into the Welsh capital this summer, it is without a doubt that Mason is a gem of a player within the club and can surely create as well as find the back of the net.

Mason is rumoured as a transfer target for Championship rivals Wolves in a potential £3 million bid to lure the striker to the midlands.

The Bluebirds will play Forest Green Rovers and Shrewsbury away before setting off to Holland on July 19th for a week.

By Sam Hardwell,

Twitter: @HardwellSam