Heaven knows Middlesbrough have wobbled alarmingly in recent weeks, but this potentially priceless victory reignited their play-off hopes when they needed it most.
Chris Wilder's men had failed to win in five games before the visit of Cardiff to surrender vital ground in the race for a top-six finish.
Yet timing is all and goals from Marcus Tavernier and Riley McGree lifted Boro up to seventh - two points behind Sheffield United with two games remaining.
Could the Teessiders yet end a turbulent campaign in the play-offs? You would have your doubts.