Malky ' Everyone wants to beat us '

Malky Mackay says Cardiff City must come to terms with favourites tag

Jan 15th 2013


Malky Mackay has warned his Cardiff City players they must come to terms with the fact they are the team everyone wants to beat in the Championship.

The Bluebirds moved eight points clear at the top of the table on Saturday with a 0-0 draw at home to Ipswich.

But it was a far from convincing performance from City, who had to rely on those chasing them to drop points to keep their momentum going.

Mackay believes his side are there to be shot at with opposing teams raising their game as they attempt to claim the scalp of the table-toppers.

“You always want to be the side at the top of the table that is only natural,” said the Cardiff manager.

“We are the league leaders and people are going to up their game when they play us. We have to accept that, we have to embrace it.

“That really is the extra challenge that we have to take on.

“But we have already shown this season that we are up for that kind of challenge. I’ve got a very honest group of lads here.”

Results-wise the Bluebirds have been in excellent shape with a perfect record over the festive season.

But some critics have suggested when it comes to performances, Cardiff have dipped the high standards they set earlier in the campaign.

Mackay disagrees.

“I don’t really see that,” continued the Bluebirds boss . “Of course you are always looking to play better and I think we can play better.

“But it is about opportunities. The fact is sometimes you are going to play well and other times not so well.

“But in the end you can only beat the team that is in front of you. The situation is, that we need to win the battles if we are going to win the war.”

...... With such mediocrity in the championship ..... I wouldn't worry Mr Malky .... Just don't end up in the play-off !!!

Agree with that - quality not so good this season in Championship. Let's make the most of it and be less average than all the others!

We were poor away at Ipswich but got 3 points and poor at home against them and got a point. I'll take that.

Personally I think Ipswich were more concerned with getting a result to help keep them up, rather than because we are top.