By James Dow
CARDIFF City manager Sabri Lamouchi insists his side will avoid relegation after a 1-0 victory against Reading at the Cardiff City Stadium.
City had plenty of chances throughout the match however midfielder Romaine Sawyers found a winner in the 90th minute with a fantastic strike from outside the box.
Lamouchi described the game as a “perfect win” – and it has moved his side five points clear of the relegation zone overnight after two wins in four days.
“We took a lot of risks, and we created a lot, I think we deserved to score earlier than we did but to score like this, a few minutes before the end of the game it gives us more power and energy,” said Lamouchi.
“We didn’t start well in the second half, so we give them opportunities but thankfully nothing happened.
“I am very happy for the boys and the fans. It is a good moment that we need to enjoy tonight and have a rest because three games in six days is crazy, but it was a perfect game.”
FT here at the Cardiff City Stadium. A late goal by Sawyers in what was a dominant performance by the hosts who have now increased the gap to five points between them and the relegation zone. 🔵1-0👑 #USWSportsJourno pic.twitter.com/l0jJyq3QHJ
— James (@Jamesdow2002) February 17, 2023
Sawyers, who has been in and out of the team during his short spell with the club, was praised by the manager.
“He is a top player, I told him from day one,” said Lamouchi.
“I remember him from my previous club, and he was the best in his position. I told him that I know his qualities and I need him on the pitch.”
Lamouchi said the decision to play natural wingers Jaden Philogene and Sheyi Ojo was made to try and have more control of the game due to Reading’s the lack of wingers.
Lamouchi added: “I did it because I want to win.
“We are at home, we want to be able to control the ball and they don’t have wingers so I wanted to take this risk to try and get the three points. It was the right decision this time.”
Lamouchi is certain his side will stay up if they keep the level of performance they have showed over the last few matches.
He said: “We just need to focus on each game, our goal is to stay up but with this mentality and the quality we have we will do it.
“It will be tough with a crazy schedule of games, but now we need to prepare for Norwich. Tomorrow we will watch the results and hopefully we will have a good surprise.”