Five changes were made from our fixture against Bolton Wanderers last time out, with Ronan Kpakio, Calum Chambers, Ryan Wintle, Joel Colwill and Cian Ashford coming into the starting XI.
City made a bright start to the contest as Joel Colwill found space on the edge of the area and had an effort blocked. After a swift break at the other end, Nathan Broadhead fired narrowly wide of the post. The Bluebirds were rewarded for their positive start, taking the lead in the 13 minute. Rubin Colwill played in Omari Kellyman, whose effort was saved by goalkeeper Callum Burton, only for Salech to tap home the rebound.
Having taken the lead, Brian Barry-Murphy's side continued to show confidence in possession and created a chance to double the advantage. Kellyman found space on the right side of the box once again, with his effort this time being parried wide by Burton. In another positive attack, Joel Bagan shrewdly played in Ashford, whose driven effort at goal was tipped over.
Rubin Colwill's influence was again evident as he won a free-kick in a dangerous position which he stepped up to take himself. The City playmaker fired a brilliant effort onto the woodwork. After a positive first half performance, the Bluebirds went into the break with a 1-0 lead.