Here is how the Bluebirds players rated in the clash against Doncaster RoversJoel Bagan of Cardiff celebrates with the fans at full time.(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)

Cardiff City saved their most dramatic moment for last, producing a scarcely believable late twist to sink Doncaster Rovers in a seven-goal thriller at Cardiff City Stadium.

Defensive frailties were again on show, but moments of real quality – and a never-say-die attitude deep into stoppage time – ensured Brian Barry-Murphy’s side found a way to keep their winning run going in unforgettable fashion.

Here’s how the players rated…

Nathan Trott 7

Had little chance with the opener after the deflection and was left exposed on several occasions as Doncaster broke through. Made two outstanding second-half saves, including a full-stretch stop from Gibson, to keep Cardiff alive late on.

Ronan Kpakio 5

Comfortable in possession and supported attacks well. But he was at fault for at least one of the goals. A mixed afternoon before being withdrawn at the break.

Will Fish 6

Unlucky to see Owen Bailey’s effort deflect off his leg for the opening goal and was caught out early in transition. Improved as the half went on but was replaced at half-time as Cardiff reshuffled.

Calum Chambers 5

Led from the back but endured a difficult afternoon, outjumped for Doncaster’s third and caught under a number of direct balls. Struggled at times with Brandon Hanlan’s physicality. Also involved in a chaotic defensive moment that almost gifted Clifton another goal.

Joel Bagan 8

A constant outlet down the left and delivered several dangerous balls, including the corner that nearly produced a goal. Capped a dramatic afternoon by smashing home the winner in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Had some tougher moments against the dangerous Luke Molyneux, though.

Ryan Wintle 8

Pulled the strings throughout and produced perfectly weighted balls over the top, one of which turned out to be an assist for Salech. Tireless in midfield, even if his booking summed up Cardiff’s frantic defensive moments late on.

Alex Robertson 6

Showed flashes of quality, including neat link play and intelligent positioning, but faded after the break. Booked for a rash challenge and replaced as Cardiff sought fresh legs.

Omari Kellyman 7

Took his goal superbly with a brilliant first touch and finish, albeit aided by a deflection. Continually targeted by Doncaster’s physical approach and never stopped demanding the ball.

Cian Ashford 9 (star man)

Simply electric. Scored a stunning solo goal in the first half and then produced the decisive moment with a sensational run and shot that led directly to Bagan’s winner.

Yousef Salech 8

Led the line superbly and took his goal brilliantly, showing strength, timing and composure. Worked tirelessly and came close to another when he headed over late on

Isaak Davies 8

A constant threat in the first half, driving at defenders and providing the assist for Kellyman’s goal. Replaced at half-time after another energetic display that unsettled Doncaster throughout.

Substitutes

Dylan Lawlor (for Fish, 46) 6

Struggled at times with the physical battle and was involved in a shaky defensive sequence that almost proved costly. But drove Cardiff’s attack forward with that confidence on the ball.

Chris Willock (for Davies, 46) 7

Injected flair and caused problems with clever movement and footwork. Went close late on but couldn’t quite find the finishing touch.

Perry Ng (for Kpakio, 46) 7 Added energy and made a couple of strong overlapping runs, including one that led to a chance for Robertson. Solid without being spectacular.

David Turnbull (for Robertson, 65) 5

Nearly grabbed a dramatic late goal with a swerving effort from distance. But still a little too slow and ponderous on the ball, especially when the games needs an injection or spark.

Callum Robinson (for Kellyman, 76) 6

Lively off the bench and involved in late attacking phases, including a scramble in stoppage time. Couldn’t quite engineer a clear opening but stretched Doncaster until the end.

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