Mon Jan 04, 2016 8:21 am

Mon Jan 04, 2016 1:09 pm
Forever Blue wrote:http://insidecardiffcity.co.uk/three-things-we-learnt-from-cardiffs-win-against-blackburn/
16/01/04
by Michael Jones
THREE things we learnt from Cardiff’s win against Blackburn
Cardiff City ended the busy Christmas period with an uneventful 1-0 win at home to Blackburn Rovers. Contrasting with the pervading pessimism surrounding the club, I take a look at three positives that we can take from the game.
Clean Sheet![]()
For the first time in the league, since a 2-0 win over Reading, the Bluebirds held out for a clean sheet. Granted, the City defence had little to deal with as Blackburn’s attack was pitiful at best. However, it’s a sign that Slade’s men are returning to the defensive solidity that saw then concede just one goal in the league in October.
Indeed, Slade seems to have learnt from his mistakes; even if it is 7 games too late. Taking off Joe Mason for Stuart O’Keefe was a shrewd decision, ensuring a compact three man-midfield. This added layer of protection nullified the Blackburn attack, which included the invariably threatening Jordan Rhodes. Alongside this, it allowed for even greater possession towards the later stages of the game, helping subdue a late Rovers’ revival. Even shouts of ‘hurray’ at each pass echoed around the CCS as the Bluebirds retained possession for an extended period of time.
Hard to beat at home![]()
City’s last defeat at home came way-back in September against a Hull side that now sits 3rd in the table. In fact, Cardiff have only lost once in the league at home all season and 7 points from 9 at home over this Christmas period is an agreeable outcome.
However, only 8 wins from 14 games at home paints a slightly different scene. Whilst Slade’s men are resilient in the Welsh capital, they have a tendency to allow the away sides back into the game, leading to 6 draws.
If the Bluebirds can maintain their solidity at home and add a greater potency to their attack, then the CCS can become a daunting place for opposition teams. If this is to occur then Slade needs to impress upon his players the importance in killing a game off; too often have City sat back after taking the lead, allowing the visiting team a way back into the game.
Gunners firing on all cylinders![]()
Aron Gunnarsson, or ‘Gunners’, is back to his best. His return to form has been previously mentioned at Inside Cardiff City, but the Icelandic captain appears to have fully regained the quality that City fans expect.
Breaking up play, initiating attack and leading the team, City’s no.17 did it all on Saturday afternoon. The fiery way in which he plays his game complements with Ralls’ composed manner: the two have formed a strong partnership, which has benefited the side greatly.
The January transfer window is crucial for City: recruit well and we can conceivably push for the play-offs, but fail to do so will mean mediocrity. However, Kenwyne Jones’ departure, whether it be a positive or negative one (definitely positive), is another example of the diminishing budget available to Slade, suggesting that he will have limited resource. Yet, there are things that show promise, and fans shouldn’t be all doom and gloom.
Mon Jan 04, 2016 3:19 pm
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Mon Jan 04, 2016 7:09 pm
Tue Jan 05, 2016 8:23 am
Tue Jan 05, 2016 12:02 pm