Rubin Colwill’s thunderous free-kick inspired Cardiff City to a comeback win as League One life began with a flourish.
The Bluebirds overturned a first-half deficit to beat Peterborough United 2-1 in front of an upbeat home crowd in South Wales.
Bright Start to Barry-Murphy Era as Bluebirds Impress
It may have taken Cardiff City 22 years to return to League One, but there was no hint of a hangover as Brian Barry-Murphy’s youthful side delivered a statement performance on the opening weekend.
Despite falling behind to a 33rd-minute penalty from Peterborough United’s Bradley Ihionvien – awarded after Will Fish was controversially adjudged to have fouled Declan Frith – the hosts dominated for large spells. Colwill, wearing the armband in Calum Chambers’ absence, restored parity with a dipping 20-yard free-kick just three minutes into the second half. It was the kind of strike that underlined why the 23-year-old has long been viewed as a player of immense promise, even if his career to date has been stop-start.
That goal galvanised the Bluebirds, and it was teenage right-back Ronan Kpakio who stepped up next, curling in a delightful finish on the hour mark after good work from Ollie Tanner. It was a goal worthy of winning any game – clipped off the underside of the bar and met with a roar from the 19,615-strong crowd at Cardiff City Stadium.
Barry-Murphy’s new-look side, the youngest Cardiff have fielded in a league match this century, played with real intensity both in and out of possession. Their high press and pacey attacking transitions bore little resemblance to the more conservative setups under recent managers.
While they might have extended their lead – Colwill, Tanner and Callum Robinson all had further chances – the hosts were good value for their three points, delivering a performance full of energy, technical quality and tactical cohesion.
Rising Stars Take Centre Stage
Colwill’s showing will have delighted both Barry-Murphy and Wales boss Craig Bellamy, who also has high hopes for Kpakio. The vice-captain led by example, not only with his stunning equaliser but also through his work ethic off the ball and link-up play in attacking areas. His younger brother Joel was handed a full league debut, further emphasising Cardiff’s shift towards youth and homegrown talent.
Kpakio, meanwhile, shone in both defence and attack. His willingness to bomb forward created several overloads, and his composure for the winner highlighted the maturity he already possesses at just 18. Bellamy, who has namechecked the defender’s potential as “incredibly high,” will have taken note.
Writer’s View
This was a performance full of hope for Cardiff fans. After seasons of stagnation and a grim slide into the third tier, there’s a freshness about Barry-Murphy’s side that could signal the start of something genuinely exciting. It’s far too early for bold predictions, but the signs are promising: a young, hungry squad, an identity on the pitch, and players like Colwill and Kpakio stepping up to the occasion. The atmosphere in the ground reflected that optimism. For once, Cardiff feel like a club looking forward, not back.
