Callum Sheedy felt Cardiff’s control and composure were decisive as the Blue & Blacks ground out a hard-fought victory against Benetton.

In what the fly-half described as “one for the purists”, Sheedy highlighted the importance of game management, territory and taking points when they were on offer, with Sheedy kicking over two early kicks in the first half to set the tone for the match.

“It was definitely one for the purists,” said Sheedy. “In games like that it’s really important to be ahead on the scoreboard. We took the threes early on and that was massive because it’s so hard to chase a game with a greasy ball.

“We wanted to play the game as much as possible in their 22, which is why we played fairly minimal rugby around halfway. I thought we did that really well and managed the last 15 to 20 minutes especially.”

Sheedy also praised the tactical control shown late on, with Cardiff repeatedly turning a powerful Benetton pack and keeping the visitors pinned back.

“Ben Thomas was outstanding with those little kicks from the edge,” he added. “It was about constantly turning them. They’re a big pack and when they get momentum, they’re really hard to stop.”

“We talk a lot about fight and enjoyment. It’s not always going to be pretty. At the end of the season, no one’s going to care what that game looked like – it’s four points and that’s the important thing.

“We were six-nil up at half-time and probably could’ve been further ahead, but it is what it is. It’s a big four points for us.”

Sheedy also acknowledged the significance of the win in the context of the league table, while stressing the importance of keeping perspective with plenty of rugby still to be played.

“We don’t want to get too carried away with the table, but we’re not stupid, we knew it was a big game,” he said. “There’s still eight or nine games to go, so there’s a lot of rugby left to play.”

One player who caught the fly-half’s eye was Josh McNally, whose influence extended far beyond the obvious moments.

“Tonight was a Josh McNally game,” Sheedy said. “A lot of the unseen work he does is massive – being niggly in the maul, getting a big turnover in the first half, staying in contact and just fighting for everything.

“He’s been around the block, he’s a great leader, and when there’s a lull in the game he’s the one who lifts you. He’s brilliant for the environment and I thought he was outstanding tonight.”

With four valuable points secured, Cardiff now look to build momentum as they face Ulster in the final weekend before the beginning of the Six Nations.