TURNER SEEKING CITY MOMENTUM
Derby-day hero looking for more of the same in the Midlands
spoke in the aftermath of Sunday’s derby-day victory over Swansea City, reflecting on the positivity in camp and the determination of the squad to build momentum with further success at Aston Villa this Saturday.Ben TurnerCity centre-half
“Sundaywas a big game, the first South-Wales derby in the Premier League,” said Ben. “What’s more, we needed to start getting points on the board again so it’s important that we were able to do that.
“It was really important that we started picking up points again. We obviously managed to win the game, the main thing is that we've picked up the points.
“I don't know how much is known [of the rivalry] outside of Wales, but it's a huge derby. The fans demand 100% effort in these games. I think we got that bit right and tactically we got it right too.”
Commentators have since speculated that the partnership of Ben and goal-scorer Steven Caulker was exceptional in such an intense environment – their defensive work and strength key to the Bluebirds’ ultimate success.
“In the modern game, tackling is almost like a last resort now because every time you do tackle you run the risk of getting it wrong and getting booked,” Ben commented. “You need to put yourself in the position and get the timing right; luckily we got that right on the weekend.
And as for the season going forward – starting with Saturday’s trip to 14th place Aston Villa – Ben believes optimism should reign in the Welsh Capital.
“We've got a tight-knit group at Cardiff City,” said the defender. “I think anyone who knows something about the club knows that. The manager won't have anything else.
“Everyone he brings in, he almost has them vetted to the point that he knows what kind of character he's dealing with. I'm happy to be in that kind of environment; I think that's the way in any walk of life that you're going to get the best out of each other - by having good people around you.
“It's standing us in good stead so far; we've made that step to the top flight and now it's important that we stay here.
“We were disappointed with the 4-1 score-line at Chelsea a few weeks ago, because until the 70 minute mark we were well in the game. We took the lead and were unfortunate with their equaliser.
“We're going to come up against teams who are deadly at finishing and Chelsea won that game, fair play to them. I still think, it sounds a bit crazy but in losing 4-1 we showed a lot about ourselves and we haven't let it affect us since.
“We’re looking forward to going to Villa Park on Saturday now for another big game. I’ve got quite a lot of family and friends coming to that one as I’m from Birmingham originally, so they’ll be hoping we win the game too.”
