City's U21s began their campaign with a 4-1 victory over AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League Cup.
MATCH SUMMARY
The Bluebirds produced a brilliant first half display to head into the break with a 1-0 lead thanks to Jack Sykes' opener, reacting quickest in the box after a corner was played in to tap into the net.
City had further chances to add to the lead in the opening period, with Rob Tankiewicz and Paul Moreno both impressing.
Our visitors came out of the blocks quickly in the second half and got themselves on level terms, requiring Matthew Bloxham's side to show character.
They did exactly that, with Tankiewicz netting a fine strike to put City back ahead.
All of the Bluebirds' substitutions made an impact when they came on but it was Troy Perrett who stood out, adding a third and fourth goal to City's tally.
Both of Perrett's strikes were full of quality, picking out the top corner for the first and showing great feet to find space for the second.
Following victory over the Cherries, next up is a Professional Development League clash against Barnsley on Tuesday afternoon, kicking off at 2pm.
REACTION | MATTHEW BLOXHAM
Speaking to Cardiff City TV after the final whistle, Matthew Bloxham said: “We always knew Bournemouth would be a tough team to face. They’ve just transitioned into being Category One so it was a difficult challenge. I thought the boys were excellent in the way they executed the gameplan and showed the identity that we want to play with, both in and out of possession.
“After half-time, there was a difficult 15 minutes, which is something we need to learn from. We have to make sure that we keep our levels high and keep doing what got us into good positions in the first half.
“We were much more positive after that period. I thought the boys who started the game were excellent but the substitutes made a good account of themselves and in the end, we were deserved winners.
“We’re searching for consistency. We’re not going to qualify in this tournament tonight. We’re not going to win the league on Tuesday but what we want to find is a level where we’re consistent in what we do both on and off the ball. I think if we continue what we’ve done tonight, we’ll give ourselves a really good chance for Tuesday [against Barnsley] and for the rest of the season.”
REACTION | JACK SYKES
Striker Jack Sykes, who netted the opening goal, added: “It’s the start that we wanted. We’ve prepared well for the season and have spoken all week about starting strongly against a good side like Bournemouth. It was important that we began the game well and it was great to get an early goal.
“It’s always nice to get a goal and get off to a flying start with the team. Set-pieces are so important in football these days and I was lucky enough to get across the back post and fire home early. Credit to the boys, I think we’re all bringing something to the team, which is positive.
“Tuesday is a massive opening game in the league for us. We want to get off to a flying start. It’s about building consistency now. We’ve had a good pre-season with games to learn from. What’s key now is being relentless in every game and work well in training.”
PRE-MATCH | ISAAC DAVIES
Ahead of this Friday's fixture, we caught up with midfielder Isaac Davies to reflect on the side's preparations.
"The games in pre-season against senior teams have been a top experience to understand the level that they're playing at. They're such high-quality teams to compete with and that helps us to develop physically, our understanding of the game and details like set-pieces.
"We've also played against some top academies like Chelsea and Liverpool. They've been good experiences to push us forward into the season.
"Physically, we're all ready to go for Friday. Mentally, we're all excited. Pre-season is always fun but the competitive season and playing with three points on the line is what you're in the game for.
"My role in the team as a six, it does change in games depending on whether the team have much possession of the ball or not. You're sat in front of the backline so you have to do a lot of screening.
"On the ball, I've learned so much since joining the Club but I would say the main developments in my game since coming here have been out of possession, which have been very important for me."
RECENT RESULTS
The young Bluebirds have been preparing for the new campaign with a series of challenging pre-season fixtures.
Facing a range of senior opposition, City claimed a draw against Poole Town and a win over Bath City, prior to being defeated by Yeovil Town and Torquay United.
The side also faced off against U21 opponents, recording a goalless draw at Chelsea and a 4-3 win at Liverpool, before a 4-0 loss against Fulham.
TICKET INFORMATION
Entry for the match at Cardiff International Sports Campus will be free for all supporters.
REACHING THE GROUND
Supporters planning on attending should use the following address:
Cardiff International Sports Campus, Leckwith Rd, Cardiff, CF11 8AZ.
The ground is located an 11-minute walk away from Ninian Park station and a 32-minute walk from Cardiff Central station.