In a match that seemed headed for a draw, Brian Barry-Murphy’s men found the resources they needed to win 4-3 against Doncaster at Cardiff City Stadium. Here’s a look back at a completely crazy game.

After beating direct rivals Stevenage in midweek, the Bluebirds needed to win to maintain their lead at the top of the league and boost their confidence ahead of the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Chelsea. In a great atmosphere on Saturday afternoon, Cardiff didn’t really get into the game and struggled to create any real chances. It was Doncaster who opened the scoring in the 15th minute through O. Bailey after a fine team move (0-1). But Brian Barry-Murphy’s men reacted quickly and equalized 10 minutes later. Isaak Davies made a magnificent run down the wing and passed back to Omari Kellyman, who converted with a beautiful half-volley (1-1). Still on a roll, the Bluebirds scored again in the 34th minute thanks to C. Ashford, who beat the opposing goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation (2-1). But just before the break, the Welsh side took their foot off the gas and left Hanlan alone in front of Nathan Trott, who won the duel (2-2). A goal that perfectly encapsulates the sometimes overconfidence that has occasionally let them down this season. They return to the dressing room with this score.

And that was just the beginning of a historic match !

Brian Barry-Murphy made three changes at halftime, and the freshness of these players seemed to have an immediate effect on the game. Five minutes into the second half, Yousef Salech scored his 10th goal of the season, fighting hard against the opposing defenders (3-2). But little by little, the pace slowed, the Bluebirds fell asleep and failed to create any more chances. Doncaster pushed forward and even equalized in the 72nd minute through Clifton (3-3). From that goal onwards, the stadium woke up and the crowd pushed their team to continue their winning streak. The assistant referee announced seven minutes of added time, but the visitors wasted time and the referee allowed Cardiff City one last chance. Cian Ashford struck a fine long-range shot, which the Doncaster goalkeeper parried, but Joel Bagan, lurking in the box, scored to send the stadium into raptures.

Thanks to this goal, Brian Barry-Murphy’s men secured their fifth consecutive league victory and remain at the top of League One. Their next match is on Tuesday, December 16, in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals against Chelsea, one of the most important games of the year.

Picture : Tom Delourme / Sport W