Most of the media is today reporting that Cardiff City and Bristol City played out a poor quality encounted which the Bluebirds sneaked courtesy of a fortuitous own goal. For me, that wasn’t the case and while Bristol City offered precious little going forward, Cardiff actually played pretty well.
A makeshift XI, especially the midfield always leaves us vulnerable but Cardiff dominated that area despite the central area being occupied by crocked Ledley, the winger Peter Whittingham or younster Aaron Wildig.
Chopra entered the game after 30 minutes, and took some time to get going but caused problems thereafter. McCormack was busy and had a few efforts go close while Whittingham saw the best chance of the first half when his shot was blocked after a brilliant backheel.
For Bristol City, only a long shot or set-piece ever troubled our defence and Nicky Maynard was the only real threat. The recalled Gyepes was solid and the defence dealt well with the few BCFC attacking moves.
In the second hald, Bothroyd went close after collecting a Marshall long ball and rounding the keeper, while Chopra saw two efforts saved and McCormack hit the bar. The deadlock was broken when a through ball from Whittingham found Chopra onside, he raced at goal and beat Gerken only to see his shot rebound off the post. Fortunately for the Bluebirds, it hit the unsuspecting Bradley Orr and flew into the net.
Although Bristol tried to attack, they created little and Cardiff looked just as likely to add to the lead. Chopra really should have but his touch was a little strong. On another day, he’d have had a hat-trick.
Cardiff were superior in all areas and deserved the win. Particularly pleasing was the attitude and work-rate of an underfire and severely depleted squad. Ledley, Bothroyd and McCormack worked tremendously hard, while Whittingham showed some sublime moments of class to set Chopra in space. Fourth round now beckons on Saturday with Leicester City the visitors to CCS.
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