The defeat all but confirms the Seasiders’ relegation to League One as they now sit seven points adrift of safety with just six games remaining.
Here’s how Pool’s players rated:
1. Dejection
Morgan Rogers can't hide his disappointment at the full-time whistle Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
2. Chris Maxwell - 4/10
Rooted to his line for Cardiff’s opener and failed to dominate his box. Did make a couple of good saves though. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
3. Jordan Gabriel - 5/10
Preferred to Andy Lyons at right-back and gave his all. At least tried to make things happen down the right with Bowler. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
4. Curtis Nelson - 4/10
Beaten in the air too easily for Connor Wickham’s goal. Spooned far too many clearances awry against his former side. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
5. James Husband - 4/10
Struggled against the powerful and lively Sory Kaba. Arguably at fault for the second with his weak headed clearance. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth
6. Dom Thompson - 4/10
Failed to close down crosses and caught out of position too often. Seemed intent on hacking down Cardiff’s players too. Photo: CameraSport - Dave Howarth