Leeds United put to an end to Aston Villa’s amazing winning form in an emphatic fashion, securing a 3-0 victory at the Villa Park. The Whites were dominant right from the start, barely allowing any chance for the Villans to get a grip into the proceedings as a marvellous hat-trick from Patrick Bamford sealed all three points for the visitors.
Leeds United Player Ratings Vs Aston Villa
Illan Meslier 8/10
Made an extraordinary save early in the second half to deny Jack Grealish. Also saved another effort by Ezri Konsa. His distribution was top-notch, and it was yet another marvellous performance from the young Frenchman in between the sticks.
Stuart Dallas 7.5/10
Shifted into the right-back role effortlessly, providing adequate support to Costa going forward. He was also disciplined in the defence, minimising the threat of Grealish.
Robin Koch 8/10
Robin Koch was outstanding in defence this evening. He was strong and resilient while winning important duels throughout the game, thus making up for the absence of Liam Cooper and Diego Llorente.
Luke Ayling 8.5/10
Luke Ayling led the side by examples, making a host of great tackles throughout the course of the game. He most notably made an important goalline clearance to deny Grealish, making up for an error he made.
Ezgjan Alioski 8/10
Ezgjan Alioski’s compulsion to drive forward made life extremely difficult for the Aston Villa defenders. The Macedonian’s crosses, combined with his combination play with Jack Harrison, were one of the key reasons behind Leeds’ dominance in this game.
Pascal Struijk 5/10
A poor tackle on Jack Grealish early on earned him a yellow, effectively cut his night short as Marcelo Bielsa replaced him midway through the first half.
Helder Costa 8/10
Helder Costa was a constant threat for the Aston Villa defenders. He looked to probe the opposing defence, making use of his quick feet to craft chances in the final third. Taken off late in the game.
Mateusz Klich 8/10
Mateusz Klich had to operate in a deeper role following the substitution of Struijk early in the game. He played that role with aplomb, making it difficult for the likes of Douglas Luiz and John McGinn to impose their authority in the middle of the park. Played a key role in the second half too.
Rodrigo Moreno 9/10
While Bamford definitely stole the show, it was Rodrigo Moreno who instigated most of Leeds United’s counter-attacks, including the one that led to the opener. Martinez saved his amazing run and strike, but the rebound went straight to Bamford. An inspiring figure in the final third.
Jack Harrison 9.5/10
Jack Harrison was one of the best performers in this fixture, bombarding Aston Villa’s Matty Cash with his relentless forays down the byline. He provided numerous crosses and was the main source of creativity for the away side. Deserved a goal.
Patrick Bamford 10/10
Patrick Bamford looked rusty in the first half, missing a few great chances. However, a monstrous performance in the second half saw him secure his first career hat-trick after two years. His second and third goal was absolutely scintillating to watch.
SUBSTITUTES
Jamie Shackleton 8.5/10
Replaced Struijk around the twenty-minute mark and it made all the difference for Leeds United as the youngster provided that extra spark for the Whites going forward. Jamie Shackleton was indeed a constant outlet for them going forward, and the performance should help him gain some importance in the first-team.
Pablo Hernandez N/A
Replaced Rodrigo in the 79th minute. Looked rusty and missed a couple of chances, particularly with his efforts on goal.
Raphinha N/A
Produced an incredible pass to create a chance for Leeds United after coming on for Costa with just ten minutes remaining on the clock.
