Ledley Always Steps Up For The Big Occasion

Cardiff City face a massive game on Sunday when Arsenal bring their superstars to Ninian Park for a highly anticipated FA Cup clash. One man who always seems to thrive in the big games is Joe Ledley - the Bluebirds midfielder in excellent form at present too.


During this season and last we've had 3 absolutely massive games - Joe Ledley has starred in them all:


1) FA Cup semi-final vs Barnsley


Cardiff City's first visit to new Wembley saw us marginal favourites against Barnsley and we were expected to give the Tykes a hard time. We did dominate largely but none more so than Ledley on the left who showed a new array of tricks on the wide Wembley surface. It was Ledley's stunning hooked shot that gave City the lead and eventually decided the match. It was no suprise that Joe was named man of the match, and subsequently the entire round.



2) FA Cup Final vs Portsmouth

Cardiff City returned to Wembley this time as real underdogs against a strong and organised Pompey outfit full of quality and experience. One of those players was Glen Johnson, the England and former Chelsea right-back but he was made to struggle against Welshman Ledley. Numerous times Ledley skipped past or was brought down by Johnson with several pundits commenting he was lucky to remain on the field after a torrid first half. As testiment to Ledley's threat Pompey changes their system to provide more cover on their right flank.



3) Swansea City 2-2 Cardiff City (league)


The league meeting between the South Wales rivals was always sure to be a massive occasion and fiery encounter. Swansea City went ahead, while Ledley was given abuse on almost every touch. It was the Bluebird however who made the impact crashing in a superb drive from 20 yards following a corner. The resulting Ayatollah and shirt pointing was not greatly appreciated at the Liberty stadium! City got their noses in front but a petulant red card saw McPhail dismissed and Swansea grab an equaliser.



This season, Ledley has scored against the likes of Reading, Birmingham City and Crystal Palace - all hoping to play in the Premiership next season. Add to that he scored the winner in the Algarve Cup against Celtic meaning we won the trophy and it seems Mr Ledley enjoys the big stage and this Sunday at Ninian Park vs the Arsenal superstars promises to be another opportunity to impress!

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