Warnock's brought the fortress factor back
By Chris Wathan
Friday 11th August 2017
One of Neil Warnock's favourite memories is of taking a QPR side to Cardiff City Stadium and grabbing a draw that put his Hoops side on course for promotion.
Granted, the fondness came at Cardiff's expense and there is a smile when he has recalled an entertaining game including a special showing from Adel Taarabt.
Yet it has sprung more into Warnock's mind in recent years because of the atmosphere he knows is capable at Cardiff City Stadium and how it's a ground that away teams would be happy to sneak a point with them for their trip back over the Severn.
It's not been the case often enough in recent years for a number of reasons – rebrand disconnection, dwindling crowds, lack of anything to play for, uninspiring football – and there have been times where the fearsome noise of Ninian Park felt like it belonged to a different club.
But Warnock's trusted No.2 Kevin Blackwell said not long after their arrival that turning the Bluebirds' home back into a venue where opposition squads would not look forward to was a key priority.
It was actually the New Year's visit of Villa last season that showed what can be possible, a raucous atmosphere and a committed, disciplined display combining in unison for the first time in a long time to thwart a fancied visitor.
Warnock wants more of the same and knows that, as it was the last time the Bluebirds won promotion, making Cardiff City Stadium a place where confidence is drained from the moments sides step off the bus is key.
He has the players – suddenly you look around the Cardiff team and there are physically imposing figures prepared to go to the wall for each other – but now what's required is the fans to play their part.
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