Cardiff City have failed to book their place in the Championship playoffs following a 1-1 draw with Leeds United this afternoon.
In an opening 45 minutes of few goalscoring chances, the first opportunity fell to Cardiff striker Kenny Miller. However, the Scotland international saw his drilled effort blocked by Alex Bruce.
Just as it looked as though the two sides would be heading into the break level, hosting Cardiff took a 42nd-minute lead. Peter Whittingham crossed for Joe Mason, who slotted the ball beyond the reach of Andy Lonergan from close range.
Leeds provided a greater attacking threat after the restart and went close to drawing level in the 62nd minute. However, Danny Pugh's strike from distance just went wide of the target.
The away side eventually restored parity 17 minutes from time courtesy of Luciano Becchio, who headed in a cross from Paul Connolly.
Filip Kiss had Cardiff's best chance to regain the lead, but his effort from eight yards out went wide of goal.
Cardiff will be guaranteed a spot in the top six if Middlesbrough lose to Southampton this evening.
Liam Apicella
