Leeds United secured their first Premier League victory after 16 years, winning 4-3 against fellow promoted club, Fulham. The Whites were in control for most of the game, notably taking an unassailable 4-1 lead at one point. However, some defensive mishaps, combined with an inspirational comeback from the Cotaggers saw the game go right down to the wire.
Leeds United Player Ratings Vs Fulham
Illan Meslier 7/10
Illes Meslier showcased his technical ability by producing a couple of incredible long passes, one of which resulted in the third goal of the evening for Leeds United. The young goalkeeper may have done a little bit better in keeping out Bobby Reid’s effort, but it was overall a promising display from the Frenchman.
Luke Ayling 6/10
Luke Ayling wasn’t as active as Stuart Dallas on the opposite flank. The right-back may have done a better job of keeping Fulham out, especially in the second half.
Robin Koch 7/10
Robin Koch had an excellent start to the game, showcasing his brilliant range of passing as well as his ability to read the game. Unfortunately, the German conceded yet another penalty, though this was also a harsh decision from the ref.
Koch had a few nervy moments in the second half, but he did show good communication with Liam Cooper. A promising performance, even though the defender still has much to improve upon.
Liam Cooper 7/10
Liam Cooper added that composure and experience that was missing in the Leeds United defence for the past two matches. Although the captain lost a headed duel with Aleksandar Mitrovic for Fulham’s third goal, his overall influence on the game helped the Whites become more stable defensively.
Stuart Dallas 7/10
Stuart Dallas was phenomenal when it comes to his work-rate. The left-back covered a lot of ground and was always willing to win the loose ball. However, even though the defender was great off the ball, he was poor on it.
Kalvin Phillips 6.5/10
Kalvin Phillips had a breezy first-half, playing a central role behind Leeds United’s sheer dominance on the proceedings. The English international found a bit difficult to maintain that level of composure when Fulham pushed forward and also got dispossessed on some occasions.
Mateusz Klich 8/10
Mateusz Klich continues his excellent run of form with yet another impressive display in Leeds United midfield. He calmly converted the penalty to score the second goal in the first-half before providing an excellent pass to open up Bamford for the third. The Pole did look tired during the end, but it was only warranted given the amount of work he had put in.
Helder Costa 9/10
Helder Costa was simply the best player on the pitch this afternoon. The Portuguese attacker was everywhere as he always tried to cause Fulham problems with his clever movements, brilliant passes and quick footwork. Opened the scoring with an amazing finish and replicated such composure in the second half as well, putting home Bamford’s cross to score the fourth goal.
Rodrigo Moreno 5/10
Started instead of Pablo Hernandez in a late change by Marcelo Bielsa as the Spaniard had picked up a training injury. Unfortunately for Rodrigo, however, he failed to make full use of his opportunity.
He wasn’t the most active player on the pitch despite Leeds dominating the first-half. Should become more effective as time goes on.
Jack Harrison 7/10
Jack Harrison wasn’t as involved as the likes of Bamford or Costa. However, the winger had a key role to play in the build-up to the fourth goal as his clever headed flick found Bamford in behind the opposition defence. Would have preferred to be more productive.
Patrick Bamford 8.5/10
A fantastic game for Patrick Bamford, who led the line with aplomb. He won the penalty for Klich’s goal in the first half before scoring one himself with an excellent finish in the second. It was followed by a magnificent run out wide to deliver a cross for Helder Costa for Leeds United’s fourth goal of the game. Aside from his productivity, the ex-Chelsea starlet was heavily involved in the press and often made crucial interceptions in the final third.
SUBSTITUTES
Tyler Roberts 7.5/10
Replaced Rodrigo at the start of the second half and provided the dynamism that was missing in the number ten role. The Welshman used his body well, becoming a menace for the Fulham defence. An effective sub.
Ezgjan Alioski 7/10
Replaced Bamford during the final phase of the game, providing the energy and some added work-rate on the flanks. He also had an excellent chance to score a goal for himself, though his shot was wide.
