Leeds United had a much-needed rest after congestion of fixtures and were expected to run riot on a depleted Bolton backline which conceded four goals at home against Norwich City in their previous fixture. But the contest at the Elland Road proved to be yet another lucky escape for the Whites who managed an edgy 2-1 win, thanks to a bizarre winner from Ezgjan Alioski.
Below are the Leeds United players rated in their narrow win against Bolton Wanderers.
Kiko Casilla: 7
The Spaniard conceded one despite making a splendid save to deny the original attempt. But he could have done little to stop Mark Beevers who made it 1-1 from the rebound. Had a comfortable outing otherwise as he made some routine saves in Leeds goal.
Luke Ayling: 7
The fullback kept on making relentless runs from the wide areas and did well to combine with Hernandez, whipping in crosses and threatening from set-pieces. Had some nervy occasions at the back but balanced his game in both ends before being replaced by Jamie Shackleton in the closing seconds.
Pontus Jansson: 7.5
Had some difficulty while defending set-pieces. But he stood tall and exhibited his supremacy throughout the game. Bolton had a late corner which, however, was headed clear by the towering centre-back to ensure all three points for the hosts.
Liam Cooper: 7
The skipper was calm and composed as well. Made some timely blocks, interceptions as well as clearances. Also helped the Whites to form attacking moves from the deep with his distribution traits.
Ezgjan Alioski: 8
Although he started as a left fullback, Alioski spent the majority of his time in the attacking third with pinpoint crosses, cut insides and one-twos from the flank. His cross bizarrely fooled Remi Matthews in Bolton goal and proved to be the decider in this highly-contested encounter.
Kalvin Phillips: 7.5
Phillips was handed a role to marshall the ‘back four’ and break down the opponents’ moves one after another. His destructive game stopped the visitors from having control of the midfield game. Therefore, he made it easy for his teammates to concentrate more on finding the net.
Pablo Hernandez: 7
The veteran worked hard from the left. Kept on whipping in crosses inside the box and creating chances with his stunning passing skills, vision and smart link-up play.
Tyler Roberts: 7.5
Started in midfield but mostly operated as the ‘number 10’ behind Bamford. Earned a spot-kick early on and also came close to finding the net on a couple of occasions. The youngster is expected to have a run of games in the absence of Kemar Roofe and must work on his finishing skills to make a greater impact in securing a long-pending promotion for Leeds. Received a standing ovation while making way for Stuart Dallas late in the game.
Mateusz Klich: 7.5
Played his part in Leeds’ winner as he won back possession in midfield before setting it up for Alioski. Was combative in the middle of the park and delivered an all-round display to make things easier for Marcelo Bielsa.
Jack Harrison: 6.5
The youngster found the net against the Swans. Worked hard, had a few attempts but failed to make an impact similar to his previous outing.
Patrick Bamford: 7.5
Converted the spot-kick with great confidence and scored against the Trotters for the third time in a row. Had a few more chances but failed to convert those and add to his tally.
Substitutes
Stuart Dallas: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Jamie Shackleton: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
