Reality check for Eustace

BIRMINGHAM boss John Eustace admitted any revival of his club is going to be a huge task, after his side were outplayed in defeat to Cardiff yesterday.

The 1-0 reverse was the first under his command, with Aston Villa loanee Jadon Philogene-Bidace grabbing the decisive goal for the Welsh side in the 17th minute.

When the breakthrough came for the hosts, it was no surprise. Ryan Wintle fed Callum O’Dowda with a slide rule pass through the righthand channel and the Irish winger, who joined from Bristol City this summer, delivered a measured low cross for Philogene-Bidace to gleefully side-foot home.

Eustace must have concerns about what lies ahead after a display which was largely dismal save for an upturn early in the second half.

‘I was disappointed with the way we started the game, but the second half was more competitive and more like us,’ he said.

The disappointment contrasted sharply with the mood in the Cardiff camp.

Manager Steve Morison witnessed the sort of cohesive and slick performance from his players which suggested his methods and philosophy are beginning to bear fruit.