Town were the better side for much of the game but Cardiff scored at key moments as fine finishes from Joel Colwill and Chris Willock, plus Ethan Wheatley’s own goal, took them back to the summit. Wheatley himself equalised early in the second half but late missed chances left Cobblers frustrated. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields...
1. Ross Fitzsimons
Beaten three times but not a lot he could have done about any of the goals, though he did get a hand to the first. His handling and kicking was excellent throughout in very difficult conditions... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
2. Conor McCarthy
Defended well in the main and stepped in proactively to cut out Cardiff attacks and make timely tackles. The visitors scored three goals but two were from the edge of the box and the other was an own goal. Clear-cut chances were otherwise few and far between... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
3. Jordan Thorniley
Just couldn't get out quickly enough to close down Colwill but it was a very good finish. Salech was a physical presence throughout and the two had a good battle but generally Town's on-loan defender came out on top... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
4. Michael Forbes
A constant threat from set-pieces in the first half, twice rising well at the back post but couldn't direct his headers on target. His balls down the left channel towards Wheatley where a great source of joy for Cobblers throughout... 7 Photo: Pete Norton