Cardiff City See Off Nine-Man Charlton Athletic

Cardiff City virtually strolled to a comfortable win over Charlton Athletic after the visitors were reduced to 9 men. It could all have been so different if Luke Varney had kept his footing when through but Heaton managed to smother his off-balance shot. Soon afterwards, Cardiff took the lead when Whittingham's low drive was parried to McCormack and the striker slotted home.


From then on, Cardiff were in control and had the best chance to extend the lead - McPhail shooting over wrom a McNaughton cut-back.


Shortly into the second half, McCormack was sent through on goal only to be hauled back by Addicks substitute Semedo. It looked a clear penalty as Semedo received a straight red for a last man challenge. However, the referee gave a free-kick on the edge of the area only for McCormack to split the wall and grab his second.


Visiting captain Hudson was then dismissed for two yellow cards in quick succession for fouls on Parry and Bothroyd - both times racing out the the Cardiff left touchline. The sending off was perhaps a little harsh but you have to question his experience and he should have known better.



McCormack was denied a hat-trick when Bailed brilliantly blocked from 5 yards while McPhail and Bothroyd went close with half-chances. However the miss of the day went to Gavin Rae who strode clear of the defence only to lack confidence and screw a tame shot wide. The eleven men were clearly on top save for one Charlton effort after superb footwork from Matt Holland - his pull-back deflected.


A good win for Cardiff albeit in unusual circumstances. Whatever Alan Pardew says, his side were outplayed with 11, 10 and then 9 men on the pitch and we move up to 4th place.

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