The Sunday afternoon fixture between Leeds United and Middlesbrough was supposed to be another usual Championship outing between two historic football clubs who were aiming a promotion glory following their 2016-17 misfortune. But the return of Garry Monk at Elland Road added more relevance following his surprise step down as the Leeds United boss in summer, particularly after such a sensational upsurge last season that almost earned the underdogs a playoff spot.
The former Swansea City defender, however, opted to quit as the Peacocks boss despite a new contract offer and decided to take charge of Middlesbrough, who got relegated from Premier League last season.
Leeds are currently in deep trouble with consecutive defeats to their names and Monk might have been expecting a hostile reception from the home crowd, despite his latest interview revealing that the lack of intention from the owners forced him to take such a difficult decision after a productive 2016-17 campaign.
Middlesbrough had a slow start but picked it up in recent weeks with three consecutive victories and were placed sixth in the league tally ahead of the outing.
It was a must-win game for Thomas Christiansen to have a lifeline as the Leeds boss and his boys did not let him down this time, pulling off an emphatic 2-1 win against Garry Monk’s men.
Below are the Leeds United players rated in their win against Boro.
Andy Lonergan: 6
Made a decent stop to deny Stewart Downing’s venomous strike in the first half. Lucky not to concede as Braithwaite’s effort was blocked off the line by a combined effort of Luke Ayling’s head and the post. Failed to stop Assombalonga’s spot-kick that seemed to be a harsh decision from the assistant referee.
Luke Ayling: 7.5
Much better display from the Leeds right fullback who concentrated on his defensive work and saved Braithwaite’s effort off the line. Made some ambitious runs and linked up well with Alioski down the right-hand flank. Was unlucky to concede a penalty after bringing down Ayala what looked like a harsh decision as the Boro centre-back fouled him at first place which the referee overlooked
Pontus Jansson: 8.5
Excellent defensive work from the Swedish international who never let Boro take control inside the box. He was combative, pulled off crucial blocks, tackles, clearances, and interceptions. Also won some important aerial duels.
Liam Cooper: 8
The skipper was as good as his defensive partner and looked menacing from set-pieces. Headed just wide once in both the halves following set-piece situations.
Gaetano Berardi: 7
Berardi did not offer much creativity going forward but concentrated on his defensive duties and never let Stewart Downing pose threats from the left flank.
Ronaldo Vieira: 7
The youngster broke down Boro’s moves in the middle of the park and impressed with his passing and ball control. Lost the possession dangerously towards the end, which the visitors could not capitalize on. Helped his defence when needed.
Kalvin Phillips: 8
Phillips, once again, impressed in midfield, marched forward and his driving runs often created space in the attacking third. His headed flick from Alioski’s cross helped Hernandez to break the deadlock from a close range.
Ezgjan Alioski: 8.5
Alisoki was excellent throughout the afternoon with his pace, runs and cut insides. His cross was flicked into the path of Hernandez who scored the opener. He himself netted Leeds’ second after picking up Hernandez’s cross from the left-hand flank and finished it from close range. Was taken off in closing minutes and replaced by Matthew Pennington.
Samuel Saiz: 7.5
His impressive footwork, twists, and turns created opportunities for the Peacocks inside Boro half. The Spaniard linked up sensationally with Hernandez, Roofe, and Alioski throughout the game. Was unlucky as his effort from distance hit the woodwork. Was replaced by Eunan O’Kane in closing minutes.
Pablo Hernandez: 8.5
Hernandez scored one and set up another in Leed’s much-needed victory against the former gaffer, who brought the Spaniard to Elland Road last season.
Kemar Roofe: 6.5
Roofe started as ‘number 9’ and played his part in the build-up of Alisoki’s goal. Impressed with his passing and link-up play but did not offer much in front of goal other than that. Was replaced by Ekuban late in the game.
Substitutes
Caleb Ekuban: 6.5
Worked hard to win back possession in closing minutes, troubled with his pace and physicality up front. Crucial game-time for the striker following his return from a lengthy injury spell.
Eunan O’Kane: 6
Helped the midfield to retain the shape against Middlesbrough’s pressure in closing minutes.
Mathew Pennington: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
