Cardiff City score professional 2-0 win away at Luton Town

Cardiff City made it four wins from their last four matches as they battled to an impressive 2-0 victory over Luton Town.

The first half was largely uneventful, the Hatters shading possession stats but Cardiff did well to nullify them.

However, a five minute capitulation at the beginning of the second half saw the Bluebirds in the driving seat. Harry Wilson curled home a delightful finish from the edge of the penalty area and four minutes later, Will Vaulks hit a volley that took a decisive deflection into Simon Sluga’s net.

The two goal lead never really looked in doubt. Cardiff were set up in a way that not only produced the goals needed to win the game, the Welsh side also set up to play to their strengths defensively. That is a testament to the work Mick McCarthy has done since his arrival and the way he is getting his team to play.

There is something special about a set up with three centre halves when it is executed right. A good example being Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United. The way McCarthy has configured this Cardiff side so far since his arrival has been impressive, and he is getting the best out of all of his players.

This was particularly evident last night in midfield. Vaulks and Marlon Pack stuck to their tasks and were a real force in the middle of the park at Kenilworth Road.

The two central midfielders had a clear understanding of what their role was and how best to help their team. They kept things ticking with good tempo going forward whilst stifling the Luton midfield, resulting in the home side struggling to create any real chances.

The goal scorer, Vaulks, was particularly impressive. His defensive capabilities help to make Cardiff a solid outfit, but he also has a great eye for goal and forward play in general. McCarthy’s side boast a wealth of great forward players and having Vaulks in the middle, linking defence and attack is perfect for the way Cardiff are playing.

The victory sees Cardiff just three points from the top six, after gaining 14 points from the last possible 18. Luton remain in 15th.

The league table looks promising for the Bluebirds, and a play-off spot is well within reach. Whilst it remains to be seen whether this is just a honeymoon period for McCarthy, his side have shown all the characteristics of an outfit gunning for a top-six spot and have worked their way up the table to be within touching distance.

The form of Bournemouth and Reading has been unconvincing at best and if the Cardiff boss keeps his current winning system, there is no reason why the play-offs can’t be a realistic proposition.

Many weren’t convinced that McCarthy’s appointment was the correct one for the situation Cardiff were in. But, he is proving every doubter wrong and has the Bluebirds playing winning football.

Luton gave them a stern test and have shown enough to prolong their stay in the Championship yet again, they do not look like relegation contenders.

It was certainly a battle, but, with confidence flowing, Cardiff look unstoppable at this moment.

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