Bristol City player ratings: ‘Electric’ 8/10 inspires comeback as Bell winner sinks Swansea

Bristol City came from a goal down at halftime to win 2-1 against Swansea City on Saturday afternoon.

Liam Cullen gave the hosts an early lead when he latched onto Charlie Patino’s through ball and slotted home.

The Robins dominated the remainder of the first half and had three goals ruled out before the break.

Mark Sykes drew Nigel Pearson’s side level early in the second half before Sam Bell’s left footed finish secured all three points.

Here’s how the Robins fared…

Player ratings:

Max O’Leary – 7

Was left fully exposed for the opening goal and had nothing else to do in the first half. Made a couple of comfortable saves from Cullen at the start of the second period and did well to react and push away Cabango’s header. Good performance.

Taylor Gardner-Hickman – 6

A couple of nervy moments but looked assured on his full debut, could’ve used the ball better at times but always looked to play forward.

Zak Vyner – 7

Had little defending to do but made some well-timed tackles, as well as progressive passes forward. A good display.

Kal Naismith – 6

Allowed Cullen to run in behind him too easily for the opening goal but Improved as the game went on. Was composed on the ball when in possession and would’ve had an assist for Bell but the winger was ruled offside.

Cam Pring – 7

Was fortunate that Cullen failed to take advantage when he was caught in possession early on. Linked up well with Bell going forward and got into some dangerous positions in Swansea territory.

Matty James – 7

Dictated play well from the middle of the park and controlled the tempo of the match. A high class display from the captain on the day.

Joe Williams – 8

Battled in the middle and was positive with the ball. Played the pass in behind the Swans defence which found Sykes who equalised. A very well-rounded performance from one of City’s most consistent players so far this season.

Jason Knight – 7

Popped up all over the pitch and pressed well all afternoon. Saw a long-range effort narrowly fly over the bar before another effort was cleared off the line by Grimes. Scored in added time at the end of the first half but the goal was ruled out.

Mark Sykes – 8

Looked sharp back on the right wing and gave the Swansea defence no respite, cut inside Wood and slotted home coolly to make it 1-1, before he forced his way through three defenders and crossed for Bell’s goal.

Could’ve had another when he reacted quickly to Bell’s deflected shot to convert acrobatically, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Electric at times.

Nahki Wells – 6

Held the ball up and linked play well but should’ve done better when shooting straight at Rushworth at 1-0. Blazed over the crossbar minutes later and was a frustrated figure in front of goal.

Sam Bell – 8

His pace posed a constant threat down the left flank and he mixed up his attack strongly to keep Ashby and Cabango guessing. Controlled Sykes’ cross excellently to put his side 2-1 in front on the hour mark. Delivered some excellent crosses into the area and was unfortunate not to have scored another when narrowly offside.

George Tanner (subbed on for Gardner-Hickman, 69’) – 7

Nullified Swansea’s threat down the wing well.

Harry Cornick (subbed on for Wells, 78’) – N/A

Rob Dickie (subbed on for Sykes, 84’) – N/A