How they rated

NEIL ETHERIDGE

Clung on well under pressure time after time, one of his better performances this season and that’s saying something.

BRUNO MANGA

A couple of moments when he switched off aside, he was a man mountain. Consider that he’s playing out of position and that’s even more impressive.

SEAN MORRISON (CAPT)

Absolutely crucial clearance off the line after Etheridge’s one and only handling error in the game in the second half. His finishing at the other end is the only thing that marks him down.

SOL BAMBA

He was solid, and no-nonsense in a game that suited him. All the while his name was being sung around the stadium to the tune of Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’. He must love this time of year.

JOE BENNETT

Made a number of vital interventions at the back, along with excellent distribution to his midfielders.

ARON GUNNARSSON

Defensively impeccable, helping out his back four whenever called upon while showing some crucial composure in midfield. Continuing his excellent form,

VICTOR CAMARASA

Playing in his preferred central midfield spot and carried Cardiff forward at times during the first half, then played the vital ball through that eventually led to Paterson’s goal.

NATHANIEL MENDEZ-LAING

A welcome return for the only out-and-out right winger in the Cardiff squad, who looked a threat on the break but lacked end product.

JOSH MURPHY

Yet again he caused havoc in the opposition defence and yet again got his right-back both booked and hauled off at half-time. Quieter in the second half and replaced, but still excellent.

CALLUM PATERSON

A constant battering ram up front and eventually got his reward for putting Vestergaard and Bednarek under pressure when the former dallied and allowed the Scot to slot coolly home.

STAR MAN HARRY ARTER

Some quality touches and typically energetic running, which forced Southampton errors. He seemed to be everywhere and was deservedly given a standing ovation from the Bluebirds faithful.