Ahead of the start of the new season, Steve Morison suggested that supporters could look forward to seeing a different side to the one that flirted with a relegation battle in 2021-22.
With one game gone, Morison can claim to be living up to his word, Cardiff outfighting Norwich to prevail by the odd goal in a game which saw both teams have a man sent off.
Morison would have preferred not to have played 12 minutes of the closing stages at a player disadvantage, but it created a scenario where his players – new and old – needed to show a test of character.
They ultimately came through with flying colours, posting a result which has naturally increased expectations among a fanbase who want reassurance that last season was nothing more than a blip.
Nevertheless, Cardiff’s starting lineup last weekend featured as many as eight debutants, and it will take time for consistency to follow the energy and commitment which was provided against the Canaries.
In sharp contrast, Reading went down by a 1-0 scoreline to opponents in Blackpool who they may regard as direct rivals the longer that the season progresses.
The Royals lost out to a goal scored in the ninth minute, Paul Ince’s side unable to get back on level terms as they suffered defeat at Bloomfield Road.
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The club’s fans will be grateful for how Ince helped instigate change during the back end of last season, but he remains under pressure to produce a team who can avoid another battle against the drop.
Although Reading arguably have one of the more favourable starts on paper, they will need to raise their game considerably if they are not to feature in the lower echelons come the end of the month.
Curtis Nelson is expected to deputise in the middle of the backline, but Morison may select the remainder of the team which impressed last time
