Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman says his side will be in better shape for the second leg of their Carling Cup semi-final in a fortnight.
The Eagles will take a 1-0 lead to Cardiff thanks to Anthony Gardner's strike despite their preparations being disrupted by a virus which affected the goalscorer, goalkeeper Julian Speroni, skipper Paddy McCarthy and midfielder Mile Jedinak.
"We had to patch up a couple of players and get them out there," said Freedman, who was unable to call upon young defender Nathaniel Clyne.
"Jedinak and McCarthy were on their sick beds and nearly didn't make it. But full credit to the guys. I asked them to show real character and they did.
"I looked them in the eye at 5pm and asked them if they were prepared to put their bodies on the line for the club and they said 'yes'.
"Clyney couldn't actually get out of his bed to be here. We'll be stronger for the second leg. We'll prepare better and have a fitter squad."