Cardiff | Port Vale unlucky to not take three points against Cardiff City

Port Vale 0 - 0 Cardiff City

Cardiff City escaped with a point after being second best in a goalless draw at Port Vale.

Author | Jeremy Watson

Stadium | Vale Park

Vale had the better of the contest, imposing themselves physically and going close in the first half when Jesse Debrah’s header forced a save and a wayward clearance from Cardiff captain Calum Chambers struck the post.

The visitors offered little improvement after the break, struggling to deal with Vale’s set-pieces and creating almost nothing in attack.

Home captain George Byers headed against the bar from an offside position as Darren Moore’s side continued to press, but they had to settle for their first point of the campaign at the second attempt.

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Cardiff had looked promising on the opening weekend under new head coach Brian Barry-Murphy, fielding their youngest league line-up of the century in a fluent win over Peterborough United. Their performance at Vale Park, however, was a sharp reminder of the challenges ahead in League One this season.

Cardiff boss accepts it might be a good point

Cardiff head coach Brian Barry-Murphy said his side would gladly take the clean sheet and point, but admitted there were aspects of the performance that needed improvement, particularly in front of what he described as “an incredible travelling support”.

Speaking to local radio, Barry-Murphy conceded his team were fortunate to leave with a draw given Port Vale’s display. He added that certain elements of Cardiff’s game had to improve.

He pointed to poor positioning, a lack of composure in wide areas and a tendency to rush possession. These, he stressed, were not issues limited to the wide players but to the team as a whole. The final ball and the finishing touch, he said, had not been of the required standard.

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Which players stood out for Cardiff?

Many Cardiff players struggled against a fairly impressive Vale side. However, a couple did perform ok and helped their side to what might prove to be a valuable point.

Nathan Trott

A lively debut, showing composure on the ball and security with his handling. There were a couple of stray passes late on, but overall it was a solid and assured first outing.

Ronan Kpakio

Another encouraging performance from the youngster, who, after catching the eye in attack in the opening match, looked more composed and reliable in defence this time.

Will Fish

The former Manchester United defender helped steady the back line after coming on in the 61st minute, delivering a composed and positive contribution.