"An exodus of senior players, constant managerial upheaval and an unpopular owner all contributed to relatively modest expectations at the start of this season, even in League One. Losing had become a habit, the style of play was somewhere between tedious and unwatchable, and some supporters had come to view attending games as a chore if they went at all. Six months into the campaign, however, and Cardiff are reborn."
"They are top of the table and playing exciting football with a core of young Welsh players, who are blossoming under the guidance of new head coach Brian Barry-Murphy. The Bluebirds have not known joy like this for an age, but it comes with a warning. Some believe Cardiff simply stumbled upon this transformation, a happy accident brought about by relegation - a rare triumph for owner Vincent Tan, whose dysfunctional running of the club had led to fan protests just a few months ago."
"Speaking to fans outside Cardiff City Stadium this season, it is hard to believe that, less than a year ago, some of the same people were here staging furious demonstrations. Now, the blue smoke from flares, the placards and the "Tan out" chants have been replaced with contentment and a newfound confidence. "We're going to win this league easily," says Richie from Blaenau. "The togetherness means it's different"
Cardiff City were relegated to League One after years of stagnation in the Championship, with fans frustrated by player exits, managerial upheaval and an unpopular owner. Expectations were modest and attendances sagged as losing became habitual and the style of play was tedious. Six months into the League One campaign, the club sits top of the table and plays exciting football centered on young Welsh players developing under head coach Brian Barry-Murphy. Supporters who previously staged protests have shifted to contentment, though some observers warn the revival may be a fortunate accident and temporary for owner Vincent Tan.
Read at www.bbc.com
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