Cardines made an instant impression on his first Championship start, playing the full 90 minutes as Bristol City drew 2-2 away at Birmingham City.
The 20-year-old recorded 12 defensive contributions and created three chances, but it was his assist that stole the show.
Picking up the ball on the left flank, Cardines worked it onto his right foot before whipping a superb low cross into the box, where Dom Ballard produced an outrageous backheel volley into the top corner from six yards.
With Ballard’s finish already doing the rounds on social media, Cardines can claim a slice of the credit for an outstanding goal that will already go down as one of the season’s best.
The Robins are back in action on Saturday (29th August), when Portsmouth visit Ashton Gate (KO: 15:00 BST).
Watch Rio's assist below!
