Tue Sep 28, 2021 8:57 am
Engine room's smooth partnership in the Cardiff U23’s.
v Millwall U23’s yesterday.
The more this midfield pairing of Eli King and Keenan Patten play together the more encouraging it looks from a Cardiff City perspective.
They can be a little difficult to distinguish, given they are both a similar height and have the same light-coloured blond tinge to their hair, but they are both also forward-looking and progressive in the way they play.
King has had to wait for his chance, with Sam Bowen having been the mainstay in the middle of the park before his graduation to the first team, but he is taking it with both hands now.
Both King and Patten showcased their industry in retrieving the ball but it was heartening to see just how attack-minded they were when in possession, something which, in truth, has been in short supply in that area of the pitch for the first team.
Neither are shy in terms of shooting from range, too, and trouble the Lions keeper on more than one occasion.
Patten in particular looked impressive, as he has done for a number of games now. He looks to have grown in confidence this season, maybe shouldering the burden of leadership in the middle of the park after Bowen's first-team promotion, and that is a very positive sign for Cardiff.
They were made to work in the second half, too, when Millwall gained momentum and control, but showed doggedness to to try and stymie the visitors' attack when possible.
Solid outings from both again.