Cardiff City’s Carabao Cup Triumph: Player Ratings and Analysis
Jak Alnwick – 8
Alnwick’s performance was commendable, with solid goalkeeping and impressive distribution.
His exceptional performance during the penalty shootout, saving all three shots, made him a standout player.
Mahlon Romeo – 6
Romeo displayed lively bursts down the right flank and effectively contained Colchester’s left-hand side.
A decent overall performance.
Xavier Benjamin – 6
On his competitive debut, Benjamin handled Colchester’s physical threats well.
Unfortunately, he left the field due to an injury.
Jack Simpson – 5
Simpson had a challenging game, getting beaten for Colchester’s second goal and delivering a few poor passes.
Jamilu Collins – 4
Collins struggled throughout the match, contributing to Colchester’s first-half goals due to defensive lapses and errors.
A boost in confidence is needed.
Andy Rinomhota – 8
Though he started slowly, Rinomhota grew into the game.
His partnership with Sawyers facilitated play disruption and he created opportunities for his teammates.
Romaine Sawyers – 6
Sawyers displayed his usual tidy passing and ball control, although his performance was not exceptional.
He occasionally dropped deeper than necessary.
Rubin Colwill – 8
Colwill shone as one of the standout performers.
He showcased skill by nearly scoring a spectacular goal, eventually netting after controlling an awkward cross.
Fatigue set in later, and he missed a penalty.
Kieron Evans – 6
Operating on the same flank as the struggling Collins, Evans had limited impact.
Nonetheless, he exhibited good link-up play when opportunities arose.
Ollie Tanner – 8 (star man)
Tanner’s raw talent was evident, contributing significantly to City’s attack.
He initiated the move leading to Etete’s goal, created chances, and displayed his potential with a solo run.
Kion Etete – 5
Although he scored a goal by being in the right place, Etete missed a crucial chance and displayed frustration throughout the match.
Substitutes
Joel Colwill (Sawyers 60) – 6
Making his debut, Colwill made an important defensive intervention shortly after entering the field.
His contribution down the line was noteworthy, despite a few mistakes.
Ike Ugbo (Etete 76) – 6
Ugbo had a chance that hit his thigh and missed a golden opportunity.
Nevertheless, he redeemed himself by scoring the winning penalty.
Joel Bagan (Benjamin 76) – 6
After being subbed in, Bagan delivered a couple of excellent crosses that contributed positively to the team’s attacking efforts.
Sheyi Ojo (Evans 76) – 5
Although Ojo’s end product lacked, he managed to convert his penalty during the shootout.
Cian Ashford (Tanner 87) – Not Applicable
Ashford made his debut during the final minutes of the match.
Cardiff City’s Carabao Cup journey continues with a resilient performance, led by standout players and a few areas for improvement.
