Cheltenham produced a much improved performance and were unlucky to come away without a point. There was a cup-tie atmosphere inside Ninian Park, with the vociferous home fans there usual partisan self. The 321 Robins fans were making themselves heard as well though and the players were giving them something to cheer about.
Devaney was a constant threat to the Bluebirds and he came close to giving his side a shock early lead as his cross almost dipped inside Neil Alexander’s far post. Cheltenham had enjoyed a bright start, but it was the home side who were celebrating after eight minutes. Peter Thorne finished after the Cheltenham defence failed to deal with a Graham Kavanagh cross from the right.
Cheltenham hit back and were on level terms ten minutes later following a fine move. Milton picked up the ball in a central position and found Julian Alsop on the edge of the area, Alsop crossed to the far post where John Finnigan was waiting to slot home the equaliser. Cheltenham were playing with renewed confidence and were producing some slick passing football with Finnigan and Milton prominent. However, Cardiff went in at half time 2-1 up as Robert Earnshaw netted his 23rd of the campaign. Kavanagh’s corner was not cleared and after Thorne’s shot was blocked, Earnshaw powered home from close range.
The second half saw Cardiff in control for long periods, but the Cheltenham defence held firm, with Brough, Duff and Griffin outstanding. Devaney was denied by Alexander and Book made a wonderful stop from Earnshaw after the Welsh international had been played in by Kavanagh.
Tony Naylor made his return to action, much to the delight of the travelling fans. The diminutive striker has been out for several months with a series of injuries and it was a real boost to see him back on the field with partner in crime Julian Alsop. Damian Spencer was also given a chance to find an equaliser and the best chance of the closing stages fell to the former Bristol City target man. A long ball caught out the Cardiff defence and Spencer held of a challenge in the box, but his shot was straight at Alexander and the breakthrough never arrived.
Cardiff’s side, packed with internationals, was pushed all the way and the Cheltenham players and temporary managerial team were applauded off the field for their efforts. A draw would have been a fair result, but Cheltenham now have to focus on next week’s clash with Chesterfield at Whaddon Road - a game they need to win.