Rashford’s pursuit of his first goal continues as he was denied on several occasions, but his growing contribution will be a big boost for Villa ahead of next week’s Champions League last-16 first-leg tie at Club Brugge.
Asensio could be the man to help them as he has proved a real hit since his January move, with his fourth goal in three games, with Manchester United loanee Rashford setting up three of them.
This might have been the fifth game in 14 days for Villa, but Emery named a strong side with Rashford, Ollie Watkins and Asensio all starting.
Cardiff boss Omer Riza openly said before the game that he would prioritise upcoming league fixtures in their bid for second-tier survival and he made several changes, including handing a first start for 19-year-old Dylan Lawlor.
After being frustrated for 68 minutes, the on-loan Paris St. Germain midfielder broke the deadlock from a Marcus Rashford assist before killing the game 10 minutes from time.
