Here is how the Bluebirds players rated in the clash with Northampton Town
17:15, 25 Apr 2026
Ollie Tanner of Cardiff City celebrates scoring(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd)
It was a fitting send-off at Cardiff City Stadium as the Bluebirds signed off their promotion-winning campaign with a dominant 5-1 victory over Northampton Town.
Brian Barry-Murphy’s side played with freedom and flair, blowing their opponents away with a ruthless attacking display.
Here’s how the players rated on a day that perfectly captured the mood around the club.
Harry Tyrer 7
Barely tested early on but made a couple of sharp saves when called upon and handled everything comfortably on his debut.
Ronan Kpakio 6
Showed energy driving forward but was a little loose in possession at times before settling into the game.
Will Fish 7
Solid throughout and alert to danger, throwing himself in front of shots and dealing well with Northampton’s rare attacks.
Dylan Lawlor 8
Another assured display. Read the game brilliantly, timed his tackles well and showed real composure under pressure.
Joel Bagan 8
A constant outlet down the left. His overlapping runs caused havoc and he played a key role in multiple goals.
David Turnbull 7
Dictated play nicely in midfield and kept Cardiff ticking, while also putting his foot in defensively when needed.
Joel Colwill 7
Took his goal well and linked play cleverly in advanced areas, continuing his strong attacking form.
The story of the Bluebirds’ return to the Championship
The South Wales Echo have produced this stunning, 48-page promotion special looking back at the key moments for boss Brian Barry-Murphy and his squad as they booked their place in the second tier next season. Pre-order your copy here. Online postage and packaging costs apply.
Rubin Colwill 7
Lively and inventive throughout, driving at defenders and creating problems with his movement and passing.
Ollie Tanner 9 (star man)
Outstanding. Took both goals brilliantly and was a constant threat, full of confidence and end product.
Callum Robinson 8
Alert to pounce on a defensive error for his goal and led the line well with clever movement and link-up play.
Chris Willock 7
Dangerous in wide areas and involved in plenty of Cardiff’s best moments, providing quality delivery and creativity.
Subs
Yousef Salech (R. Colwill 55) 7 – Took his goal well and added energy and presence in the final third.
Alex Robertson (J. Colwill 55) 6 – Neat in possession but caught out for Northampton’s goal.
Omari Kellyman (Willock 65) 6 – Bright cameo with a couple of driving runs, though couldn’t quite find the target.
Isaak Davies (Tanner 65) 6 – Lively and stretched the defence, winning a corner and offering pace in behind.
Rob Tankiewicz (Turnbull 86) N/A – A brief but memorable league debut for the youngster.