Cardiff City's Magnificent Quinn Steps Up

Cardiff City defender Paul Quinn produced a magnificent performance last night in what was undoubtedly his best game for the Bluebirds since joining from Motherwell in the summer.

Former 'Well Captain Quinn cost £250k and raised eyebrows in South Wales after disciplinary problems and a number of other players in the right back position. However, he started the season first choice and has showed determination and passion.

However, couples with that has been some rash tackles, decisions and some erratic performances. His sending off against Preston North Endd for fighting off the ball was a particular low point but the Scotsman has lost his place on a number of occasions, partly though poor form and partly through the emergence of Adam Matthews.

Last night, Quinn was exceptional. In fact he carried on where he left off in the second half against Palace on Saturday. At right back early on, he coped well with the threat of Danny N'Guessan and was strong and tidy throughout. The injury to Darcy Blake saw Quinn moved inside to centre-half - purely out of necessity with Hudson, Gerrard, McNaughton (and now Blake) injured.

That moved proved to be the making of him as he grew in stature and confidence to put in an exemplary shift alongside Gyepes, and then with Capaldi after the red card. In truth, it was a game made for Quinn with the grit and never-say-die attitude needed. It wasn't just his determination and willingness to put his body on the line, Quinn stepped up as a leader, a vocal presence who constantly lifted and inspired those around him.

Although lacking the defensive class of Roger Johnson, he organised, instructed and encouraged those around him - with the impressive performance to back it up. This was by far Quinn's best contribution to date for the Bluebirds, he loved the adversity and came through it with great credit. Hopefully he can continue to build and become a mainstay in the team.

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