Cardiff City finally turned their promising performances into a result, securing their first Championship win of the season with an emphatic display against Charlton Athletic. Brian Barry-Murphy's side had been searching for that breakthrough after seven league games without a victory, and they answered their critics in style.
Dominant display from the Bluebirds
Cardiff were excellent for large periods, dominating the ball and creating chance after chance against a Charlton side who struggled to live with their intensity. There were strong performances throughout the team, with Moylan, Tanner and Salech particularly influential in attack.
After seven league games without a victory, there was finally a cutting edge to go with the control. Moylan was the standout performer with a brilliant double, while there were also encouraging displays at the back from Osho and Bielik.
Player ratings
Nathan Trott 7 - Largely untested but really good with the ball at his feet and reliable enough when called upon.
Perry Ng 7 - Solid enough throughout and rarely looked troubled defensively. Offered his usual energy and willingness to get forward when the opportunity presented itself.
Gabriel Osho 8 - Another top performance against a huge centre-forward in Miles Leaburn. He dealt brilliantly with the physical battle and looked composed throughout.
Krystian Bielik 8 - Like Osho, had to contend with a physical striker but did brilliantly. Passed really well too and this was his best game since his arrival.
Joel Bagan 7 - Really added to the attack. His willingness to get forward gave Cardiff another outlet and he was a useful presence on the left.
Alex Robertson 8 - Dictated the tempo and launched many of Cardiff's attacks, setting up a number of chances. Looked increasingly influential as the game went on.
Joel Colwill 7 - Cardiff needed his bite in there against a really abrasive Charlton midfield. He provided plenty of energy and helped Cardiff win the midfield battle.
Jack Moylan 9 (star man) - An argument to say the best performance by any Cardiff player this season. What a find he's been.
Ollie Tanner 8 - Had his critics the last couple of weeks but hit back in perfect fashion with a top outing, including an assist. Looked dangerous throughout and gave Charlton plenty to think about.
Yousef Salech 8 - Like Tanner, answered his critics. Arguably scored his toughest chance and should have had another to his name, but a goal and an assist will do.
Chris Willock 7 - Had his full-back on toast for most of the afternoon. Caused problems whenever he got isolated and was a constant threat down the flank.
Substitutes' impact
David Turnbull (Willock 62) 6 - Knitted the midfield together well after his introduction without setting the world alight. Showed some nice touches.
Cian Ashford (Tanner 70) 6 - Similar to Turnbull, did well without impacting too much. Offered energy and helped Cardiff see the game out.
Calum Scanlon (Moylan 83) N/A - Should potentially have won a penalty at the end of the match.
Dylan Lawlor (Osho 83) N/A - First outing of the season for him. Good to see him back.
