Omer Riza apologised to Cardiff City's supporters following their 7-0 hammering at Leeds United. The visitors got off to the worst possible start at fortress Elland Road, falling two goals behind inside the opening 13 minutes. Brenden Aaronson and Manor Solomon netted as the Whites dominated the first half for long periods.

Daniel James was a constant thorn in City's side and deservedly got the on scoresheet just after the restart, grabbing his eighth goal of the season. Leading marksman Joel Piroe (2) and substitutes Wilfried Gnonto and Mateo Joseph also found the back of the net to pile more misery on the Welsh club.

Riza said: "First time being on the end of that result as a manager. If you don't show desire to get back into spaces, they will carve you open. Very humbling.

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"We started poorly. The ideas was to come and stop Leeds but be solid and disciplined. We gave the ball away cheaply. We left holes and spaces between back lines. (They) Played off the back of us too easy. So many things we didn't get right today.

"I apologise to the fans. They've been great. Today is very disappointing for the fans and it can't happen."

Table-topping United remain on course to win the league after stretching their unbeaten run to 12 matches. "They're in a very strong position and good luck to them," acknowledged Riza.

The result condemned the Bluebirds to a first Championship defeat since Boxing Day. The Welsh club remain in the lower reaches of the Championship table and are far too close to the relegation zone for comfort.