A patched up Cardiff City side went down 1-0 to play-off hopefuls Leicester City with Martin Waghorn taking advantage of some static defending to give the Foxes the win.
With Gabor Gyepes ruled out (back), Kevin McNaughton was utilised out of position and despite his physique – he put in a solid shift, adding pace and a caalming influence at the back. However, our lack of height was exposed at times, especially at the set piece and Andy King was able to direct his header to allow Waghorn to pounce after a throw-in.
Cardiff’s Mark Kennedy was on hand twice to deny Leicester as we creaked under pressure. The two goal-line clearances saved certain goals and gave us a chance. The midfield included McPhail and Whittingham, both returning from lay-offs and off the pace. Youngster Darcy Blake was again included, a big ask but he applied himself well.
Although somewhat fortunate to be in the game, the Bluebirds fought well after the break and enjoyed a great spell in which Leicester were under real pressure. Whittingham saw an effort fly wide, and another brilliantly saved (though the hapless referree inexplicably gave a goal-kick). McCormack’s clever control and flick went narrowly over while Bothroyd’s low effort was saved and City went home pointless.
Difficult to defend the team’s form, but also difficult to criticise as surely neither McPhail or Whitts would have played if we had a decent sized squad. With our captain Mark Hudson, centre-back Gyepes, midfielder Ledley and striker Chopra – we are missing the backbone opf our side and that will hurt any side. We desperately need to stop the rot, but imprtant match fitness will have been gained, and hopefully lessons learned – on to Coventry City tomorrow night.
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