Man of the Match – Neil Etheridge
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Loves life in the Premier League. He’s off to the Asian Cup in January and the Bluebirds will miss him. Made a series of outstanding saves 8
Bruno Manga
He’s a centre-back not a full-back, get him out of there! One of the best central defenders at the club and he’s doing his best at right-back. Watford went for what they felt was a weak link between the two right-sided defenders and it worked 6
Sean Morrison (capt)
Caught out for Watford’s first goal. He simply had to step out and confront the attacking player, who was running through the channel between full-back and centre-back. Manga was wary about a Watford player out wide and Morrison had to take responsibility 6
Sol Bamba
Inconsistent. There are times when Bamba looks a class act, but other when he flounders. Played a part in Cardiff’s second goal 6
Joe Bennett
Went off injured after an hour and Lee Peltier took over. Bennett is a Premier quality defender, but Peltier also did well when he went on 7
Junior Hoilett
The boy can certainly shoot. He followed his wonder strike against Wolves with another beauty. A superb goal, but we need to see more attacking danger from Hoilett. He has the ability 7
Harry Arter
A man who is crucial to Bluebirds’ hopes. Can make things happen and disrupts the opposition. Full of fire and venom, but Cardiff were always chasing this game 7
Aron Gunnarsson
Watford are a classy team despite a lack of positive results lately and they put Cardiff under pressure through the middle. Gunnar found it tough to cope at times, finally making way for Bobby Decordova-Reid 6
Victor Camarasa
Has the quality to make a real impact for the Bluebirds this season. With a two or three new signings in January, Camarasa will thrive alongside players of extra quality. Cool, calm and composed in possession 7
Josh Murphy
Love watching this guy play. He has pace which makes opposing players uncomfortable. Has to improve his responsibility when it comes to defending, but the Bluebirds must get the ball to his feet more often 6
Callum Paterson
Impossible to criticise the big Scot. Full of enthusiasm, intensity and commitment. He isn’t a natural centre-forward, but he gives everything to the cause. Wins plenty of aerial duels, but lives off scraps 7
Subs:
Alex Smithies (gk) – Not used
Lee Peltier for Bennett 60
Joe Ralls – Not used
Kenneth Zohore – Not used
Bobby Decordova-Reifor Gunnarsson 78
Nathaniel Mendez-Laing for Murphy 46
Kadeem Harris – Not used