How they rated

GREG CUNNINGHAM

Thrown in at the deep end on what was his first league start for the Bluebirds and did well to limit the threat of Sterling early on. But Man City’s lethal frontline soon hit top gear and the away side enjoyed plenty of success on the flanks.

SEAN MORRISON

Almost turned into his own net early on and miscommunication with Neil Etheridge put his side back under pressure soon after. Conditions certainly made life more difficult, but this wasn’t Morrison’s best showing.

BRUNO MANGA

Back in his preferred centre-back role, the Gabon international won plenty of aerial duels to keep the visitors at bay and interceptions also proved vital too in the opening half an hour. Sloppy for Gundogan’s goal and his error led to Mahrez scoring a fifth for Man City late on.

LEE PELTIER

Left for dead by Leroy Sane in the opening stages but was otherwise very solid at right-back early on. But – as with Cunningham and the two centre-backs – Man City’s front three carved Cardiff’s defence open at will after going ahead. Forced off through injury after the break.

HARRY ARTER

Typical industrious display in the middle of the park but was unable to do his usual dirty work as Man City knocked the ball around for fun.

JOE RALLS

Started well, but was quickly overrun as Man City’s midfield dominated proceedings. Collected a booking for a very poor challenge on Gundogan on the stroke of half-time. Vital block to deny Bernardo Silva in the 73rd minute.

VICTOR CAMARASA

Full of confidence early on and was at the heart of things whenever the Bluebirds did manage to bypass Man City’s midfield. But a few nervy moments put his side under pressure, and the Spaniard was unable to carry any kind of attacking influence after the Bluebirds went behind.

JUNIOR HOILETT

Battled in vain to relieve the pressure on the men further behind him and did manage to threaten on the right flank on one or two occasions. Replaced by Josh Murphy.

BOBBY REID

Positive early on as the Bluebirds carried a threat on the counter attack. But became increasingly isolated and was unable to give any kind of support to Ward as the visitors controlled possession.

DANNY WARD

Fed off scraps and was rarely given any time on the ball. Tested Ederson from distance in the first half and put in a real shift, but there was little Ward could do to prevent this mauling. Hooked just after the hour mark.