83– That’s the minute when the stars and planets perfectly aligned for Leeds United. That’s the exact minute when Leeds United scored the winner against Millwall by scoring their third goal and eventually winning 3-2. That is also the exact time when Sheffield United went behind against Bristol City and succumbed to a 3-2 defeat.
Leeds United played an enthralling encounter at Elland Road and showed that they have the stomach for a proper promotion charge. They were under the cosh for most parts of the game as they trailed from the early stages of the match. However, a brace from Pablo Hernandez and a goal from Luke Ayling ensured crucial three points for the Whites as they came back from behind twice to win the game in the end. With this, they also regained the all-important second spot as a major favour from Bristol City helped them open up a two-point gap over the Blades.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared on the day.
Bailey Peacock Farrell 6
Looked shaky with his distribution. Made one smart save in the first half. Couldn’t have done much to prevent either of the goals.
Liam Cooper 6
Gave a penalty when Millwall had a clear scoring opportunity. Apart from that moment, the captain looked in control and can’t be blamed for much.
Pontus Jansson 5
Looked shaky and rusty and it seemed like Bielsa made a mistake by starting him straight away after the injury lay off. Got booked and was substituted early in the second half.
Luke Ayling 7
Scored a simple goal which brought the Whites level in the game. Overall he did a fine job down the right. Nothing too flashy, nothing too wrong.
Ezgjan Alioski 5
Was poor in the first half as he couldn’t affect much while going forward. Barry Douglas substituted him at half time.
Kalvin Phillips 6
Was definitely troubled by Millwall’s pressing and the Whites were slow to get off the blocks. Played as a centre back in the second half after the substitution of Jansson.
Mateusz Klich 5
Not much impact from the Polish midfielder. Neither was he able to find his team-mates with killer passes nor was he able to get much on the ball.
Tyler Roberts 6
Assisted the winner but can still do better in the final third. Nevertheless, did enough on the day.
Pablo Hernandez 8
Definitely, the best player on the pitch for the Whites as he scored a brace. Wasn’t at his best with his movement but put the ball in the back of the net when it mattered.
Jack Harrison 6
His work rate is probably the only reason why he gets into the team. Missed a glorious chance to score. Needs to improve with the ball at his feet but his movement often allowed his team-mates to be in free spaces.
Patrick Bamford 5
Took a poor penalty and missed. Would be the most relieved man on the pitch after his first-half miss. Worked hard apart from that but not much result to show for his effort.
Substitutes
Barry Douglas 6
On the attacking front, provided much more quality than Alioski. Can be blamed for the second goal. Had a mixed game overall but definitely created more of a positive impact after coming on.
Jack Clarke 5
Wasn’t able to influence much after coming on.
Adam Forshaw 6.5
Did a fine job in midfield and dictated the tempo well.
