Steve Morison's first game as official Cardiff City boss ended in a 2-1 win win over Preston North End, thanks to goals from Mark McGuinness and James Collins.
Here's how the Bluebirds players rated:
Alex Smithies 8
Kept Cardiff in the game in the first half, making a handful of really tidy saves. Produced another corker to stop Ryan Ledson after the break as well.
Perry Ng 7
Booked for a nasty challenge on Greg Cunningham in the first half, but really got motoring after the break. Made space and created chances.
Mark McGuinness 7
A terrific second half after being caught out once or twice before the break. Scored an excellent header and grew in confidence.
Aden Flint 7
A very solid performance from Cardiff's centre back. Kept Preston's dangerous forwards relatively quiet, especially as the game wore on.
Curtis Nelson 7
Same as above, really. Was very good in the air and won his fair share of duels. Also put in a few important blocks, too.
Ryan Giles 8
Looked to take the game to the opposition with varied success. Provided a lovely chance for Flint in the first half and put it on a plate for Collins' goal.
Will Vaulks 8
A little clumsy in the tackle and lost possession a couple of times in the first half. But looked a different animal after the break. Was everywhere and far more confident in and out of possession. Led the team well and produced a lovely ball for McGuinness' goal.
Marlon Pack 7
Couldn't quite control the game early on but looked far more confident when City were in the ascendancy. Mopped up well at the back when things got tetchy. A very solid outing.
Rubin Colwill 8
Tried to use his flair to get things going but found it hard at times. But when his tail was up after the break he was an utter menace. So exciting to watch.
Isaak Davies 6
Ran his guts out chasing balls down the channel but didn't get any decent service, really. Out-muscled a couple of times but wasn't deterred.
Chanka Zimba 6
Started slowly and struggled to act as a target man when City tried to escape. A tough ask for the youngster and he was taken off at half time.
Subs
James Collins (on for Zimba '45) 9 (star man) - The dictionary definition of an impact sub. Completely altered the dynamic of Cardiff's attack. Scored the winner and was absolutely superb.
Mark Harris (on for Davies '62) 7 - Another who made his mark from the bench. Stretched Preston and made it uncomfortable for them. Had a couple of chances to score but did his job well.
Leandro Bacuna (on for Colwill '86) NA - Not on long enough.
- For the latest Cardiff City news and analysis delivered straight to your inbox, you can sign up for our newsletter here.
