Leeds United racked up another victory where they didn’t play their best game as a scrappy 1-0 win against Bolton Wanderers was enough to put pressure on the league leaders Norwich City.
The first half lacked quality for the most parts, and both teams were wasteful in possession and were guilty of giving the ball away cheaply. Credit should go to the home side who played with a heart even though they weren’t able to muster anything while going forward.
However, their resistance came to an end in the second half as Pablo Hernandez laid a through ball beautifully in Bamford’s path who slotted the ball home with a first time shot. The home team showed grit to create some nervy moments in the end but the Whites had enough in the tank to see out a clean sheet. That’s five wins in a row now, and they go marching on towards promotion.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared on the night.
Bailey Peacock Farrell 6
Wasn’t troubled much. Dealt with some crosses well and his handing was good.
Barry Douglas 6
Always intent on going forward. Crucial header off the line in the last few minutes to keep his side’s lead intact. Could be better with his crossing and set piece deliveries.
Kalvin Phillips 5
Was caught napping in possession quite a few times as Bolton pressed high up the pitch. Wasn’t tested much defensively but the manager would want him to improve in possession.
Pontus Jansson 6
Didn’t have many defensive duties to do. Was strong when required in his challenges.
Jamie Shackleton 7.5
Made some darting forward runs and looked positive throughout the game.
Adam Forshaw 6.5
Read the game well and sat back deep and protected the back four when Bolton were looking to break. Always looking to get on the ball and dictate play from deep areas.
Lewis Baker 4
Poor in possession and often cut a sorry figure on the pitch. Substituted at halftime. Doesn’t seem like he is going to grab the place of Saiz in his absence.
Mateusz Klich 5.5
Did the basic things right but the manager would want more quality from him in the final third. Nothing too special to write about today.
Ezgjan Alioski 5
Another ineffective game in terms of producing something meaningful in the final third. Tracked back well when required and worked hard.
Pablo Hernandez 7
Sometimes sloppy in possession but once again an influential performance from the Spaniard. Assisted the goal brilliantly by passing it through the defender’s leg.
Kemar Roofe 5
Was hardly involved in the game as other players weren’t able to create much. Got substituted in the second half for Bamford.
Substitutes
Jack Clarke 7
Should be starting the next game as he took the game on in the second half. His runs and intensity to drive forward was there to see and made the team tick in the second half after a shoddy display in the first.
Patrick Bamford 7
A massive impact from the bench as he calmly tucked the ball away in goal. Bielsa would be relishing having his summer signing back. Looked sharp and ready. Probably has Roofe worried about his position in the starting eleven.
Aapo Halme N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
