How they rated

DILLON PHILLIPS

Made one really eye-catching save in the first half to deny Cauley Woodrow and dealt with a barrage of corners and crosses really confidently. Sibbick’s strike was tucked in the corner, would have been an excellent save if he got to it.

PERRY NG

Not the right-back’s finest outing in a City shirt but by no means a disaster. Misplaced the odd pass and didn’t contribute as he would have liked at the top end of the pitch, but we know what he’s capable of. Better after the break.

MARK MCGUINNESS

A little sign of things to come. Looked confident in his first game at this level. Really good with his feet and a frame comfortable with dealing with the physicality of the Barnsley forwards.

ADEN FLINT (CAPT)

The pick of the bunch at the back, it has to be said. No matter how many high balls came his way he batted them back from whence they came. Nipped in front of his man to quell the odd attack, too.

CURTIS NELSON

Had one hairy moment when a pass slipped through his legs and Dominik Frieser scored, only for it to be chalked off for offside. Other than that a very solid outing.

JOEL BAGAN

One who took 20 minutes or so to settle but when he did he showed his quality. He struck lovely balls down the channel, defended astutely and actually caused some danger high up the pitch. Narrowly missed out on his first goal, too.

JOE RALLS

Settled into the game nicely after bit of a quiet start. Found his place and kept things ticking in there, as per his remit. Taken off after the hour through injury.

LEANDRO BACUNA

Frustrating one. He has to be given credit for getting into dangerous areas, but his last action was so disappointing. A scuffed shot, the wrong pass or that glaring miss at the back post. On another day could have had three and should have proved the difference.

MARLON PACK

Tidy enough in possession as the deepest midfielder. Brought calm when Cardiff needed it and organised the midfield in a chaotic game. His header was superb to give City the lead.

JAMES COLLINS

A very impressive debut. The sort of player City fans will love. Chased lost causes, harried defenders and made opportunities from nothing. Created as well as tested the keeper.

STAR MAN RYAN GILES

The undoubted bright spark in City’s attack. His cross into the box were nothing short of superb and should have yielded at least a couple of goals. Will be key this season.