Cardiff | New era at Cardiff City Stadium starts with a win

Cardiff City 2 - 1 Peterborough United 

Cardiff City opened their League One campaign with a comeback win over Peterborough United

Author | Jeremy Watson

Stadium | Cardiff City Stadium

Pre match in Cardiff

It was a promising start to the Brian Barry-Murphy era in a match full of energy and attacking intent. After a dreadful year in the Championship, Cardiff will be looking to bounce back over the next 9 months. 

A closer look at what happened

The hosts began on the front foot, carving out several early chances, but it was Peterborough who edged ahead against the run of play as Bradley Ihionvien calmly dispatched a penalty.

Cardiff regrouped and responded well after the interval. Rubin Colwill, wearing the captain’s armband for the first time, brought them level with a sublime free-kick from 20 yards, the ball dipping beyond the goalkeeper and into the top corner.

Away side have a free kick

The turnaround was completed by 18-year-old debutant Ronan Kpakio, who marked his first senior appearance with a composed, curling effort that clipped the bar on its way into the net.

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Cardiff continued to press and could have added to their tally, though their finishing fell short of the creativity shown in open play. Even so, the result and performance provided cause for optimism at Cardiff City Stadium following a turbulent period that culminated in relegation from the Championship.

Which players stood out

Matt Turner

A debut for the 23-year-old, who made an eye-catching save before the break and had little chance with the penalty, dispatched low into the corner. Produced a superb flying stop late on to keep out Gustav Lindgren and seal the win. This was very much an assured first outing.

Ronan Kpakio

Looked composed in defence and frequently pushed forward, sending in several dangerous low crosses. His standout moment came with a superb match-winning strike, a first-time finish hit with real conviction. A brilliant way to mark his first senior goal for the club.

Ryan Wintle

Brought composure to the midfield and picked out some sharp passes, particularly towards Tanner on the flank. Maintained his intensity deep into the game, pressing and chasing tirelessly. A quietly effective performance.