On Tuesday evening, the Bluebirds hosted Barnsley, who were 15th in the table before kick-off. The league leaders cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory in a great family atmosphere, thanks in large part to the impressive Chris Willock.

Brian Barry-Murphy decided to field almost the same team as against Stockport last Saturday, with only Kellyman replacing the injured Y. Salech and William Fish replacing Gabriel Osho. The start of the match was much better than in the last game. In the 10th minute, Ollie Tanner passed to Perry Ng on the right side of the box, who fired a powerful shot into the far corner to open the scoring (1-0). The Welsh side dominated the match but had a scare when Nathan Trott was forced into action with a magnificent save from a powerful shot that looked destined for the top corner. Although the Bluebirds are more accustomed to possession, it was on the counter-attack that they created their best chances. Just before half-time, Omari Kellyman launched a counter-attack and perfectly set up C. Willock on the left side, who finished the move with a fine side-foot finish (2-0). The break was made just before half-time.

An equally good second half

The second half was much the same as the first, with the Welsh side managing the game very well and showing real tactical cohesion in both attack and defence. Barnsley looked for fouls and even claimed a penalty during the match, but the referee did not budge. Cardiff City continued to roll, and in the 63rd minute, Willock continued to steal the show, perfectly setting up Kellyman in the box, who placed a beautiful low shot to give the Bluebirds a commanding 3-0 lead. But the show didn’t stop there. Six minutes later, Willock recovered the ball at the edge of the box and decided to shoot, beating the opposing goalkeeper once again (4-0). Of note during the match was the excellent performance of centre-back and captain Calum Chambers, who thwarted any hopes the opposition might have had and kept the team pushing forward.
The match ended with a smile and first place, still 5 points ahead of second-placed Lincoln. The next match is this Saturday away against Burton.

Picture : Tom Delourme / Sport W