Cardiff City extended their lead at the top of the League One table with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Exeter City at Cardiff City Stadium, pushing the visitors back into the relegation zone. The win marked Cardiff’s sixth consecutive home league triumph and secured crucial points during a busy festive period.
Cardiff Break Down Stubborn Exeter Defence
The first half was a tense, goalless affair, with Exeter City proving difficult to break down. Gary Caldwell’s men defended resolutely, staying compact and pressing effectively whenever Cardiff advanced. Despite enjoying around 70% possession, the Bluebirds struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Goalkeeper Joe Whitworth was called into action multiple times, saving a long-range free-kick from Alex Robertson and a close-range effort by Isaak Davies. Exeter also threatened on the counter and from set-pieces, with Jack Aitchison forcing Cardiff goalkeeper Matt Turner into a fine save.
Alex Robertson’s Goal Secures the Win
The deadlock was broken eight minutes into the second half when teenager Dylan Lawlor delivered a perfectly weighted long ball over Exeter’s defense. Midfielder Alex Robertson controlled the pass exquisitely and finished neatly to score his first goal since January 1.
Cardiff had opportunities to extend their lead. Cian Ashford hit the base of the post following a one-two with Robertson, and Yousef Salech’s rebound was superbly tipped over by Whitworth. However, Exeter could not mount a sustained response, with only Reece Cole volleying over in a late attempt to equalize.
Cardiff Remain at the Summit
The victory ensured Cardiff retained their three-point advantage at the top of League One, though second-placed Lincoln City and third-placed Bradford City each scored stoppage-time winners, preventing the Bluebirds from opening a five-point gap.
For Exeter, the defeat dropped them into 22nd place, two points adrift of safety, highlighting the challenges they face in the relegation battle.
Managers’ Reactions
Brian Barry-Murphy, Cardiff manager, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance:
“There was motivation to put that Boxing Day record right. We knew it would be a tough game against a well-organised Exeter side, but the lads showed resilience and deserved the win.”
Exeter manager Gary Caldwell reflected on his side’s efforts:
“We can be more competitive against bigger sides. Cardiff had the better chances, but the lads defended well and created some opportunities of our own. There are positives to take even from a narrow defeat.”
Key Takeaways
- Final Score: Cardiff City 1–0 Exeter City
- Goal: Alex Robertson (53’)
- Cardiff Highlights: Sixth consecutive home win, maintained top of League One, strong midfield and defensive control.
- Exeter Highlights: Resilient defensive display, occasional attacking threat, dropped back into relegation zone.
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