I'm not going to be too downbeat about what I saw today, it confirmed that we don't really have any players who are currently Championship standard...which is probably to be expected. Cardiff were at us right from the off and a combination of not being quite snappy enough with our passing and slow decision making in defence probably contributed to our downfall, whenever one of our players had the ball it looked like our opponent had twice as many on the pitch as we did. In the second half we did come into the game a bit more, agree with @Dougal that Patrick and Kelly looked good, lovely finish from the latter through a crowded box, can see why Liverpool rate him.  

 

The positive is that we won't be playing any teams in the league next season who are as good as Cardiff.

A good work-out - puts minutes in legs. You appreciate the difference in class and ability - what we can aspire to. Have played in games like this - you end up chasing shadows, and waiting for the final whistle !!.  You cannot get away from the simple plan of an effective spine of a team = strong CB's , combatant CM, and big CF who puts himself about and scores goals. Will work at this level - why muck about with fancy formations who do not deliver IMO.

What did we learn today. Cardiff are a very good side fresh from promotion and their starting 11 was littered with international players. The gap between the levels was the same as when we played at Bishops Cleeve or Merthyr. The only player we had with anything like the close control and passing ability was Kyle McAllister but as we know he wouldn't get in that team because he lacks the physicality.

 

Pagel lacks confidence and doesn't command his area. He was sold short for one goal but still didn't challenge the striker. For their penalty (very harsh - ball off the post with his arms at his side) he got caught in no mans land. Either come and take everything lock, stock and barrel or stay on your line.

 

Despite all my concerns Kengni had another good game. The two centre backs haven't figured out a relationship yet. Obi looks very promising but Ajayi looks anxious. Agina is good going forward but will have nightmares about their very good winger tonight.

 

Ewing and Berry were vert passive today and their replacements Kelly and Patrick were more aggressive although Patrick is clearly not match fit. Good finish from Kelly. Mellor works very hard and wins good headers but was isolated today. News of Etaluku had obviously reached Cardiff who successfully put a three man block on him. He will have to learn how to use that to our advantage.

 

Clarke did well and although he is often second choice by RS he does deliver consistently.

 

We definitely need another centre half and left back and maybe a more physical midfielder but hey we were never going to beat a high quality Cardiff side.

 

Wednesday will be different and I assume major changes to give everyone game time. I would expect the Swindon game to be our starting line up for the league

 

 

EDIT : Just seen the RS interview and apparently that is exactly what we should expect on Wednesday & Saturday