Leeds United hosted Preston North End in the league encounter tonight, and Marcelo Bielsa’s men were dominant in their performance as they ran out 3-0 winners. Just starting in his second game of the season, Tyler Roberts managed to score a brace and showed that the Whites attacking force is in decent hands after the injuries to Patrick Bamford and Kemar Roofe.
Liam Cooper scored the opener through a header, and even though Preston tried hard, there was an apparent gulf in quality between the two sides. Alex Neil’s men decided to press high up on the pitch but United were too good on the night, and they carried on with their unbeaten run in the Championship.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared in the game:
Bailey Peacock Farrell 7
Made a smart save from Callum Robinson’s shot in the first ten minutes of the game. There were few dangerous situations for Preston but the Northern Ireland custodian had an answer to everything that was thrown at him.
Barry Douglas 7
Solid performance from the former Wolves player and added to his assist tally from which Cooper headed in the opening goal. Was always a menace while going forward.
Pontus Jansson 7
Looked assured with the ball on his feet. Defensively he was solid for most parts, and the Swede put in a dominant performance at the back.
Liam Cooper 8
The Whites were dominant throughout the game, but it was the captain who had to step up and open the scoring. Defensively he put in a good shift and was a strong force in the air. Spread the ball well while building from the back.
Luke Ayling 6
Was caught napping on quite a few occasions early on in the game. Got his act together as the match progressed and was a significant threat down the right flank while going forward.
Kalvin Phillips 7
Like always, he was one of the safest players with the ball at his feet and dictated the game from the deep areas. His ball for Tyler Roberts’ first goal was sublime as it eliminated Preston’s entire team in one move.
Mateusz Klich 6.5
Assisted Roberts’ third goal, however, he was guilty of missing some decent goalscoring options himself. Nevertheless, the Polish midfielder put in a decent shift.
Samuel Saiz 8
Was outstanding on the night as he was relentless in the game with his running on and off the ball. The Spaniard was always a big threat for Preston’s defence as he twisted and turned and almost toyed with them in the attacking third.
Ezgjan Alioski 6
Did improve from the Millwall game but one of the few players who let down the team on some occasions. Scored a goal which was cancelled out due to a close offside call.
Jack Harrison 7
The late goal in the last game showed today as Harrison played with a lot more confidence and mixed his game well. Was impressive with the link up play in the attacking half of the pitch.
Tyler Roberts 8.5
There were many questions about whether the young Englishman would be able to lead the line in the absence of the two main strikers. The 19-year-old scored a brace, and that would certainly do his confidence a world of good. The first goal was indeed a special one as he lobbed the ball over the incoming Preston goalkeeper. Can undoubtedly improve with his link-up play but he is definitely on the right path.
Substitutes
Lewis Baker N/A
Didn’t play enough to affect the game.
Stuart Dallas N/A
Didn’t play enough to affect the game.
Adam Forshaw N/A
Didn’t play enough to affect the game.
