Jones hails back-to-form Bluebirds

06 December 2009 10:54
Chris Burke's third goal of the season, 10 minutes after the break, gave Cardiff a deserved victory after four games without a win.[LNB]Both sides looked short on confidence during an even first half but the impressive Jay Bothroyd flicked on to Burke when the Bluebirds were down to 10 men and the former Rangers midfielder cracked a left-footed shot into the roof of the net.[LNB]"Overall we deserved the win and after we scored we never sat back but kept pushing on because that is the way we play," Jones said.[LNB]"I never felt they could open us up during normal play but set-pieces were a worry.[LNB]"All the players want to do well and you could see the difference after we scored. It was a great result and I am really pleased for them."[LNB]Preston striker Jon Parkin had forced a superb save from David Marshall in the Cardiff goal in the 13th minute, and the big frontman went close to breaking the deadlock in the 47th minute when his close-range header was cleared off the line by Kevin McNaughton.[LNB]Five minutes after the break Anthony Gerrard was forced off for repairs to a cut head after being kicked by team-mate Mark Hudson.[LNB]While he was off the field receiving attention the 10 men took the lead, and the goal calmed City's nerves.[LNB]They began to take control as Mark Kennedy replaced Gerrard who failed to return to the action.[LNB]Both sides used all three substitutes but Cardiff held on for victory.[LNB]Jones reported: "Anthony Gerrard's wound was too big to allow him back on and Joe Ledley has turned his groin but fortunately Riccy Scimeca came back in today and did well for us as did Kevin McNaughton.[LNB]"Normally I would have replaced both players as they haven't played competitive football for some time but due to the injuries they both had to stay on."[LNB]Preston boss Alan Irvine was disappointed his side left with nothing.[LNB]"There was not much between the teams and I thought it would end in a draw but the one moment of quality in the game produced the goal. That gave Cardiff a boost and we looked a little tentative after that," Irvine said.[LNB]"We have now conceded three top-quality strikes in the last four matches and Andy Lonergan had no chance today.[LNB]"We have lost 1-0 and shouldn't have done so but we didn't deserve to win the game as we never made enough chances even though Jon Parkin had two great opportunities.[LNB]"Cardiff are a very good side but if you are not quite right you lose games but today they were lifted by the goal."[LNB][LNB][LNB]

Source: Team_Talk