Leeds United travelled to Moor Lane to take on newly-promoted League Two outfit Salford City in the Carabao Cup tie. The game ended in a United’s favour as they won by three goals to nil.
The game was surprisingly open in the first half as Salford City were able to create some good moments in Leeds United’s half. The Whites dominated, but they lacked quality in the final third in the opening 45. Nketiah opened the score as he slotted the ball from close range as Helder Costa set him up with a low cross.
The Whites doubled their advantage soon in the second half as Gaetano Berardi flicked the ball in from a corner which handed Costa his second assist of the game. Just before the hour mark, Klich scored a fantastic goal as he carried the ball well and finished with aplomb. Salford had their moments, but they failed to convert their chances. Bielsa might be disappointed that the League Two outfit managed 15 attempts in total.
Here is how the Whites fared on the night.
Kiko Casilla 7
Had some moments of miscommunication with Ben White. But apart from that, the Spaniard was solid in his display as he made some full stretched saves. His distribution was also on point.
Ben White 8
Looked assured and played with composure. Was strong aerially and dealt with whatever came his way.
Gaetano Berardi 7
Scored a goal with a smart finish. Defensively he found himself out of position and had to make some clumsy fouls. Improved as the game went on and made an impressive clearance off the line in the closing stages.
Leif Davis 5.5
Was troubled at the back as he failed to cope with the physicality of the Salford forward. Bielsa played a system of three at the back with Davis in defence which didn’t suit him. Improved in the second half as the Whites shifted to a back four.
Ezgjan Alioski 7
Worked hard and played with intensity. Could have done more with the ball but did alright.
Kalvin Phillips 6.5
Took one decent long-range attempt. Not his best performance but kept the game moving.
Mateusz Klich 7
Was quiet for the most parts but scored the most eye-catching goal of the night. Carried the ball well and scored with a thumping finish from a distance.
Jamie Shackleton 7
Played a brilliant ball to Costa for the first goal. Drove the ball forward with intensity and looked sharp.
Helder Costa 7
Was shrugged off the ball on occasions. Managed two assists which should help his confidence. Probably still some time away before he becomes a regular feature in th starting eleven.
Jack Clarke 6
Made a few good runs but still not at his best. Probably explains why he hasn’t played any minutes in the Championship so far.
Eddie Nketiah 8
Looked sharp and threatening. Scored a simple goal but provided a lot more apart from that. Held up play well and ran at the defence.
Substitutes
Alfie McCalmont 5
Provided a fresh pair of legs on the pitch. Played in a deep role in midfield.
Patrick Bamford N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Jack Harrison N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
