The Cardiff City v Blackburn Rovers player ratings as Smithies beaten too easily but Leeds United loanee shows promise
By Glen Williams
Alex Smithies 5
Probably shouldn't have been beaten with a side-footed effort at his near post from 20 yards. He'll want that one back.
Cody Drameh 7
Looked really sharp and lovely. Confident with the ball at his feet and offered a lot in attack. Showed real promise but faded a little.
Mark McGuinness 6
Solid enough and went through the game relatively untroubled. Made a good chance for himself late on which was saved.
Aden Flint 6
Was a constant threat in attack and was OK in defence. Showed Rothwell the angle for the shot and that's all he could really do.
Curtis Nelson 8 (star man)
Was impressive in the opposition box and had two big chances with good headers. Defensively very good, best showing in a while.
Perry Ng 7
Defensively was sound. Difficult task on the left flank, being right-footed, but offered himself well when he could moving forward.
Ryan Wintle 6
Sat deep and swept up well. Had one hairy moment when he under-hit a backpass, but moved the ball nicely when he got it.
Will Vaulks 5
Tired as the game went on and sent some errant passes before being hooked for Pack.
Joe Ralls 7
Looked the most likely to mount an attack from midfield. His set pieces were dangerous, too, and created the best chances.
James Collins 6
Ran his socks off and showed real physicality when he needed to. Had a couple of near misses when he tried to latch on to crosses.
Mark Harris 7
Put in a properly decent showing from the off. Was like a workhorse. Looked threatening running at defenders, too, but just couldn't find a goal.
Subs
Marlon Pack (on for Vaulks 66) 5
Lost the ball too many times when trying to force the issue late on.
Isaak Davies (on for Harris 66) 7
Bright cameo. Showed his pace and willing on the flanks and sent in dangerous crosses.
Rubin Colwill (on for Drameh 78) 5
Ran down blind alleys once or twice but he was trying to create.