Bellamy Gives Cardiff City Psychological Edge

Cardiff City have made an unfortunate habit out of conceding late goals, and allowing teams to raise their tempo and fight back in matches we should really have won. As we approach the final few games - there remains a realistic chance of acheiving promotion, and a great deal left to play for.

Unfortunately for Cardiff City, this is often the time of year we fall apart and have been accused of 'bottling it'. Last year, we were OK but had no chance of making second spot, and always looked a shoe-in for the play-offs. No-one needs reminding of seasons past when we have capitulated miserably, missing out on play-offs.

This season, there is an altogether different feel. Morale was incredibly low just a few weeks ago, with indifferent performances and some desperately disappointing results. The International break revitalised the Bluebirds, and an emphatic win over Derby was following by a late show against Doncaster Rovers - 6 vital points for City, though neither was a vintage performance.

Whilst Jason Koumas inevitably grabbed the headlines, hugely welcomed by everyone associated by the club - it was captain Craig Bellamy's contribution that was also worthy of note.

It simply cannot be exaggerated the sheer work-rate that Bellamy showed throughout the 90 minutes. It was non-stop, 100% committment as he chased every ball, slosed down at every opportunity and gave no Donny player a moments peace. The rest of the Bluebirds benefitted from this determination, but certainly weren't spared as the charismatic forward was in his team-mates ears constantly over the 90 minutes.

Football players are paid huge amounts, and should rightly give 100% every game. The majority do, but Bellamy's contribution was way above that. A 31 year old striker, on-loan at a lower level with a chequered injury history and at the end of a gruelling season..... Craig's work-rate was phenomenal and if he can inspire his team-mates to similar levels over the remaining few games - you feel this year could be different, after all.

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