How they rated

NEIL ETHERIDGE

A fantastic double clearance in the first half to deny Mo Salah and Adam Lallana. Couldn’t really have prevented any of the goals.

BRUNO MANGA

Did as well as could be expected amid a first-half onslaught from Liverpool. A mistake for Mane’s first goal but otherwise pretty impressive.

SEAN MORRISON (CAPT)

Superb clearance off the line in the last moments of the first half and headed everything away. He was outrun for long periods by Liverpool’s excellent front line and always looked a little vulnerable.

SOL BAMBA

Did his best Keystone Cops impression in the opening 15 to 20 minutes, culpable for Salah’s opener and almost gifting another. He did improve as the game went on.

ARON GUNNARSSON

Overrun in midfield for long stretches but got in his fair share of meaty challenges. Some nice touches in the second half as Cardiff threatened, was then replaced.

VICTOR CAMARASA

The Spaniard looked to be the one to bring Cardiff forward at every opportunity. Outstanding moments on the ball, even if it didn’t quite run his way at times.

JOSH MURPHY

Penned in by Alexander-Arnold for longer than he’d have liked, but stretched the full-back whenever he was given the chance. Lacked that bit of quality end product and hobbled off with a knock.

BOBBY DECORDOVA-REID

Outmuscled and outfought by Liverpool’s fluid and clever midfield. Just looked a bit lost, despite the odd classy touch.

JUNIOR HOILETT

Barely saw the ball in the first half but grew into the contest and got an assist for Paterson’s goal via a deflection off van Dijk.

CALLUM PATERSON

An isolated bystander for long periods but worked his socks off and will be delighted to have breached the usually cast-iron Liverpool defence. Still looks the best option up front.