Leeds United kicked off their campaign in a winning fashion as they travelled to Ashton Gate to beat Bristol City 3-1. The Whites started brilliantly, and it seemed clear that they meant business. Bristol City are likely to be in the mix for playoff spots, so Leeds United’s super-fast start was even more praiseworthy. Pablo Hernandez got in the thick of things, and he scored the opener with a brilliant finish.
Patrick Bamford joined the act in the second half as Hernandez assisted him. Leeds United got the third goal on the break as Bristol City tried to push to make a comeback late in the second half. Jack Harrison scored with a simple finish after the ball fell kindly in his path. City didn’t give up, as they kept on pushing and dominated the last 15 minutes. Weimann got one back as Casilla was beaten on his near post, but it only turned out to be a consolation.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared in the opening day victory.
Kiko Casilla 6
Made one smart save from Brownhill’s attempt. However, he continued with his eccentric way by coming out of the line now and then. Almost took out Liam Cooper by needlessly trying to punch the ball when the defender had the situation under control. Seems like he will continue to play with Leeds fans’ hearts even after the playoff debacle last season. Could have done better for the goal as he was beaten on his near post.
Ben White 8
Proved why Leeds United would probably not go for Jansson’s replacement. White looked calm and comfortable in possession and dealt with almost everything that came his way.
Liam Cooper 7
Did his job well at the back and kept the defensive line organised throughout the game. Might want to have a chat with Casilla after the match as he was almost knocked cold by the keeper.
Stuart Dallas 6
Struggled to cope up with O’Dowda for the most parts. Provided a lot of attacking outlet from the right.
Barry Douglas 5
Bristol City’s most attacks came from his side, and Douglas was struggling to get his positioning right. Didn’t provide much while going forward.
Kalvin Phillips 6.5
Had a tough and feisty game in the middle. Did his job alright. But we have seen better from him.
Mateusz Klich 6.5
Worked hard and put in a significant shift. Was decent with his performance, but could have been more incisive with his passing.
Adam Forshaw 7
Took some decent long-range attempts. Was slightly off the pace in the beginning, but contributed as the game went as he moved the ball well.
Pablo Hernandez 9
Once again, called most of the shots in the attacking third for his side. Scored through a classy finish then presented Bamford with a straightforward chance in the second half. The heartbeat of the team.
Jack Harrison 7
Got the third goal as he scored from close quarters on the counter. No complaints about his work rate as usual. Looked better in the final third from the last season.
Patrick Bamford 6
Scored through a simple finish. Couldn’t get into the game much apart from that. Definitely looks like a weak point in the lineup.
Substitutes
Ezgjan Alioski 5
Provided fresh legs after coming on
Helder Costa N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Leif Davis N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating
