Leeds United overcame a period of difficulty to win three back to back games and had a five-point cushion over third-placed Fulham ahead of Saturday’s early kickoff tie against Hull City at KC Stadium. The Whites suffered a major blow following Kiko Casilla’s suspension but reacted sharply this afternoon with a commanding 4-0 win over the injury-stricken Tigers.
Below are the Leeds United players rated in their win against the Yorkshire rivals.
Leeds United Players Rated In Their Huge Win Vs Hull City
Illan Meslier: 8
The highly-rated teenager marked his debut with a cleansheet in place of suspended Casilla. Made a couple of key saves to deny the hosts, and also mostly kept his composure between the sticks while playing it out from the back.
Luke Ayling: 8.5
Another impressive outing from the fullback with timely marauding runs, crosses and cut insides. Broke the deadlock in early minutes with a deflected strike from outside the box and set the momentum entirely in Leeds United’s favour for the remainder of the match.
Ben White: 7.5
The young centre-half was not comfortable against Middlesbrough playing in midfield in place of injured Kalvin Phillips. But he returned to his usual central defensive role this afternoon and kept on building up moves from the back with a 94% pass accuracy (stats via Fotmob). Lost a few duels against Josh Magennis, but was spot on with his interceptions once more.
Liam Cooper: 8
Was alert while protecting rookie Meslier in goal and kept on making no-nonsense clearances without inviting trouble. Dominated the duels and was effective with his tackles, blocks and interceptions.
Stuart Dallas: 7.5
The versatile Northern Irishman impressed once again as a makeshift left fullback. He balanced his game between attack and defence with timely tackles, recoveries, long balls and crosses.
Kalvin Phillips: 8
Marshalled the backline with sheer excellence. Got dispossessed a couple of times but recovered possession and distributed the ball upfront time and again to create opportunities for the frontline. Carried the ball from the deep to operate in the advanced areas.
Helder Costa: 7
Has been disappointing most of the season but left an impression on this occasion with an assist. Set it up for Pablo Hernandez from the right flank, and the veteran Spaniard made no mistake in making it 2-0 moments into the second half. Played his part in the build-up of Roberts’ first goal as well.
Pablo Hernandez: 9
Continues his exquisite form as he not only set it up for Ayling for the early opener but also doubled the lead after the break with a composed finish. Was unlucky as one of his efforts hit the woodwork minutes after Ayling’s goal. Made way for Jamie Shackleton in the closing moments of the game.
Mateusz Klich: 8.5
The Polish midfield ace created the most number of chances (5) during the match. Forced George Long to make a save, but exhibited his mastery late in the game when he assisted twice for Roberts’ brace. Dominated the show in the middle of the park as the Tigers were forced to chase the game all afternoon despite playing in favourable surroundings.
Jack Harrison: 8
Much improved display from the Manchester City loanee as he kept the Hull backline on their toes with his cut insides, crosses, link-up play, smart one-twos, swift footwork and mazy runs. Received plaudits for his influence on the game while making way for Ezgjan Alioski for the final moments of the match.
Patrick Bamford: 5
Drought continues for the ‘number 9’ as he rarely touched the ball before being replaced by Tyler Roberts midway through the second half.
Leeds United Substitutes
Tyler Roberts: 8.5
An impressive cameo from the Welshman as he found the net twice in quick succession to ensure the Whites’ fourth successive win recovering from a torrid spell prior to Valentines’ eve.
Jamie Shackleton: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Ezgjan Alioski: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
