Bellamy Boost For Bluebirds

Cardiff City forward Craig Bellamy grabbed the most important goal of Cardiff City's 4-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers in what will hopefully provide a welcome boost for the striker - who has been his usually hard-working self but playing withing himself somewhat as personal problems affect him off the pitch.

Since Gary Speed's death, Bellamy has struggled and he moved out of his home some months ago. Recently, it was announced that he and his wife had decided to separate and with Bellamy's playing time also curtailed by injury - it has been a very difficult time for the former Manchester City and Liverpool man.

You can't fault his work-rate, and though his impact has not been all he is capable of - his very presence worries defenders and he creates space for his team-mates by his speed across the ground and his movement. That said, Bellers has not been 100% right and it's apparent to all. He may well have been dropped on Friday, with Craig Noone returning from suspension but Mackay opted to include Bellamy against his former club.


The decision paid off, and though his first effort his the bar after an intricate team move - it was Bellamy's one-two with Helguson that bought him the space to fire past Paul Robinson and restore our lead. With Rovers equalising, the nerves would have been jangling for City - and Rovers visibly grew in confidence during the 2nd half. Bellamy's effort was incredibly timely and without it - we may well have lost the game rather than running out comfortable winners.

Hopefully Bellamy will take heart from his goal, and all-round contribution and his confidence will become more apparent. He has not hit the net as many times as he would have liked this season, especially since he has more often operated in attack rather than on the left wing. With Maynard out, Bellamy provides the raw pace and class up front - a run of goalscoring form now would be a huge bonus for the Bluebirds as we head into the busy festive period. .

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.