Cardiff City rose into the play offs places after proving too strong for a struggling Nottingham Forest side. Strikers Kenwyne Jones and Joe Mason struck in either half as Michail Antonio's late strike proved to be just a consolation.
The Bluebirds were the first to cause problems in the final third though, as Jones’ strong turn led to early opportunities for Mason and Anthony Pilkington, Dorus De Vries saving well on both occasions. An outstanding through ball from Peter Whittingham fed Mason again soon after, however the strikers effort was easily held by De Vries.
Breakthrough
Cardiff made their pressure tell as Whittingham's early cross found Jones who wriggled between both centre backs and headed home from 12 yards out for his second goal in a week.
City almost doubled their lead as Mason turned very well before seeing his effort beat De Vries but falling the wrong side of the post for the away side.
The last chance of the first half fell to Forest as Welsh international David Vaughan who found youngster Tyler Walker who tested David Marshall from distance with a powerful shot.
Lead doubled
Cardiff doubled their lead as a Whittingham corner wasn't cleared, it fell to Pilkington who turned and curled an effort towards goal, it was possibly going in but Mason's glancing header made sure Cardiff had a comfortable and deserved lead.
Antonio causing problems
Forest's only threat throughout was Antonio, he broke clear and looked set to pull one back for the home side, but his effort could only sting the palms of Marshall.
However Antonio did give Forest hope late on as he showed his electric pace once more, sprinting through the middle of the park before slotting under Marshall.
Mason had a gilt-edged chance to make it three but his heavy touch made it simple for De Vries to gather the loose ball. The missed chance from Mason didn't prove costly as City held on to head into the international break unbeaten.
Verdict
Nottingham Forest have just one win in their first five games as manager Dougie Freedman now has a tougher job on his hands than he expected. Antonio was a constant threat throughout as his strength and pace causes problems for any defence at this level and today was no different. Forest's long injury list is hitting them hard and they will gladly welcome back strikers Matty Fryatt and Britt Assombalonga when they return to match fitness.
A different story for Cardiff as manager Russell Slade has responded to all his critics very well. His starting strikers scored and influential midfielder Peter Whittingham had a fantastic game as well youngster Joe Ralls. Republic of Ireland international Anthony Pilkington was the best player on this pitch as he now looks back to his best.