Here is how the Bluebirds players rated in the clash with the Hatters
17:20, 14 Feb 2026
Alex Robertson of Cardiff City (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
Cardiff City tightened their grip on top spot with a thrilling 3-1 victory over Luton Town, opening up a four-point lead at the summit and moving 10 clear of the play-off places after Lincoln and Bolton drew elsewhere. In a game that crackled with intensity, Brian Barry-Murphy’s side delivered a devastating first-half blitz that ultimately proved decisive.
Goals from David Turnbull and Joel Colwill showcased the craft and composure running through this young Bluebirds team, but it was Perry Ng’s breathtaking 25-yard thunderbolt that brought the house down and sent Cardiff into the break firmly in control. Luton briefly threatened after pulling level from the penalty spot, yet were blown away when Cardiff shifted through the gears.
The second half required grit as much as guile. Luton pushed, substitutes injected energy and there were nervy moments, but Cardiff stood firm to see out another statement win. Here’s how the players rated on an afternoon that felt significant in the title race. Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community.
Nathan Trott 8
Couldn’t do anything about Jordan Clark’s penalty, which was whipped into the side of the net. Impressive with the ball at his feet. Had to tip away a few dangerous crosses in the second half.
Perry Ng 8
Defensively, as solid as you like. In attack he came alive. The triangles between him, Robertson and Tanner were evident. Then he scored the goal of his life, sending a piledriver into the roof of the net from 25 yards. A truly stunning effort.
Gabriel Osho 7
Defensively aggressive and solid, but again one or two problems with his distribution which occasionally put his team-mates in trouble. Thundered a header against the crossbar before the break.
Calum Chambers 8
Stung Josh Keeley’s palms with a thunderous effort from range in the first half. Defended well against some threatening attackers and joined the attack when the time called for it.
Joel Bagan 7
Culpable for the first goal, bringing down Isaiah Jones with a bad challenge from behind to stop him getting a shot away one-on-one. Other than that, a solid outing packed with positive moments.
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David Turnbull 8
Took the sting out of things when needed but also showcased the quality in those boots. Produced a stunning first-time finish to open the scoring, latching onto Joel Colwill’s squared cross to sweep home first time.
Alex Robertson 9 (star man)
Quickly becoming undroppable in the middle of the park. Dictated tempo as well as we’ve seen anyone do this season. Picked the right pass at the right time and was industrious in defence. Just controlled the game.
Joel Colwill 9
Produced a monster performance against tough opposition. Was everywhere, creating, tackling, assisting and, crucially, scoring. What a finish from him, too, sending the ‘keeper the wrong way before sweeping home.
Ollie Tanner 8
Boy, what form this lad is in. Going through the gears as the season goes on. Caused a number of problems and almost curled home a decent effort in the first half. Left with his customary assist after robbing Kasey Palmer of the ball and feeding Colwill.
Omari Kellyman 7
Deployed in that false 9 role again and linked up with those around him really well. Perhaps didn’t have the influence of recent weeks.
Chris Willock 8
Has become so consistent in this Cardiff side. Linked up well with Joel Bagan and created a number of decent chances.
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Subs
Ronan Kpakio (Bagan 55) 6 – A bit sloppy in possession at times. Struggled to get up to speed compared to his team-mates. Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.
Cian Ashford (Willock 69) 7 – Really tidy in possession and won an important foul to get Cardiff up the pitch.
Rubin Colwill (J. Colwill 69) 7 – Back after three months. Looked a tad rusty but then send in a stunning cross for Robinson, who should have scored.
Callum Robinson (Kellyman 69) 7 – Again, worked really hard and aided the press, but should have buried that one-on-one chance presented to him by Colwill.
Dylan Lawlor (Robertson 89) N/a – Good to see him back after a month away.
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