Fantastic Cardiff City player ratings as special talent shines again and defender really impresses
Ethan Horvath 7
A rare start and his distribution remains sub-standard. It is simply not good enough - smashing it out on four or five occasions. Had to save a few shots from range and did so well. Made a top save off Rhian Brewster after the break.
Ronan Kpakio 7
READ MORE: Sheffield United 0-1 Cardiff City: Ashford's solo stunner sees Bluebirds through to FA Cup 4th round
A deserved start for the teenager and had a fascinating battle with Sam McCallum. Linked well with Ashford but had to be on his game defensively. Shame he had to head off at half time due to injury.
Will Fish 7
A pretty seamless return to the team. Little fuss, few mistakes and generally assured.
Jesper Daland 8
Mopped up really well and Cardiff needed his physicality at times. A very solid presence at the heart of defence. Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
Joel Bagan 8
Probably the pick of the defenders. Made a couple of big interceptions and as careful as you like with the ball at his feet. Pushed into midfield second half and did a very good job. Really impressive outing.
Perry Ng 6
A mixed bag in an unfamiliar position. Caught once or twice with the ball but also cut out Blades attacks in the middle of the park. Looked better at right-back after the break.
Joe Ralls 7
A positive return to the starting lineup for the skipper, on his 400th appearance. Kept play ticking, passed well and got stuck in.
Ollie Tanner 8
Dropped into a wing-back role on occasion but was a willing runner and outlet throughout. Fashioned one chance after the break before blazing a right-footed volley over the bar. Defended fantastically well.
Rubin Colwill 7
Was dangerous in broken play and caused some issues. Made the wrong decision once or twice but produced some exciting moments too.
WHATSAPP: Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community
Cian Ashford 9 (star man)
The standout player. Produced a stunning moment when he spun his marker to set up an early chance before his top solo effort proved the winner. Had a wonderful 25-yard strike saved, too. Special talent.
Kion Etete 6
His ring-rust was evident, but that's to be expected given it's his first outing of the season. Missed two excellent chances early on but did get in good positions. Off at half-time.
Subs
Luke Pearce (Etete 46) 7 - Showed real willing on debut. Ran his lungs out and had one or two openings.
Tom Davies (Kpakio 46) 6 - Put in a big block after coming on and defended manfully late on.
Alex Robertson (Colwill 63) 7 - Defended well, kept play ticking and was generally very tidy.
Andy Rinomhota (Ng 76) 6 - Slotted in at right back for the closing minutes. Did OK but conceded the odd foul.
Manolis Siopis (Ashford 76) 7 - Important late on with some interventions and good break-up play.
