We have shown a real lack of consistency in our last two home matches. We had a great Cup performance against Crystal Palace, but we didn't carry it on against Oldham. It should have given us confidence but, in a sense, we didn't see it when League points were on the line.

Against Oldham it was, without doubt, a very disappointing performance to follow up the Crystal Palace display. You always give yourself big problems when you let in early goals and bad goals.

The most disappointing thing was that when we had the ball we didn't use it, there was no movement. It was hit and hope. Players weren't accepting the responsibility of wanting the ball. Oldham played the better football and, even when we got back to 2-2, thanks to Martin Butler, I looked at it and I could see that Oldham were still looking more dangerous.

It's a real kick in the teeth when you lose after fighting back from two down, but in the end we weren't quite worth it. There are places up for grabs after a performance like this.

There are a number of players in the squad who, in a sense, I would have liked to have a closer look at in a competitive match. I was hoping to change things around a little for the Auto Windscreens match against Barnet, but the weather took away that opportunity.

But there is no point worrying about things we have no control over. Without doubt, it is up to everyone at this Football Club to work together to pull things around and get us back moving in the right direction.

Today's match gives us the opportunity to start the process. Cardiff, like ourselves, were promoted last season and are finding it a little more difficult than they, maybe, expected to find consistency in this Division.

Traditionally, matches over the Christmas period bring big gates and a good atmosphere. The supporters can play their part by getting behind the team from the start, but it's also up to the players to give them something to shout about. We managed to do this against Crystal Palace and this afternoon would be the perfect time to do so again.

As this is the final match of the millennium, it is important to go out on a high to give us the same kind of momentum to take into the year 2000.

ROY McFARLAND