Everton against Leeds United was supposed to be an engaging contest considering both the sides’ exciting scoring form. But they have been leaking goals as well and the Goodison Park outing this evening was no short of excitement with both the outfits creating a number of chances. It, however, took almost 80 minutes to break the deadlock when Raphinha finished exquisitely beyond Jordan Pickford to earn the Whites a much-needed victory after a few difficult gameweeks.
Below are the Leeds United players rated in their 1-0 win against Everton.
Illan Meslier: 8.5
Has exceeded all expectations with his excellence between the sticks. The young custodian was nervy at times with his gripping but pulled off some impressive saves to deny the Toffees. A hard-earned cleansheet for the youngster as a couple of Everton goals were disallowed for offside.
Luke Ayling: 8
His tireless and energetic runs never allowed the likes of Richarlison and Alex Iwobi to dominate from the wide. Although the Brazilian created a few chances with his pace, power and flair, Ayling was a step ahead of him with timely recoveries, tackles and blocks.
Robin Koch: 7.5
The Germany international has been decent with his positioning and towering presence. Despite being a bit nervy while defending set-pieces, the centre-half was impressive enough to contain the deadly Dominic Calvert-Lewin throughout the occasion.
Liam Cooper: 7
The skipper had some scary moments defensively while being engaged into duels, but he settled in eventually and was spot on with his tackles and clearances. Helped the Whites to build the game up from the back in this fast-paced and free-flowing encounter.
Ezgjan Alioski: 7
Mostly operated from the left-hand flank but was not entirely utilized as a fullback as he was often seen altering position with Stuart Dallas. The North Macedonian got dispossessed twice but was determined enough to make recoveries and win the duels. Linked up well with Raphinha and Jack Harrison.
Kalvin Phillips: 8
His return from injury has been a significant boost. The Englishman worked extremely hard in such a high-pressing tie and orchestrated from his deep-lying role by maintaining the shape and moving the ball across the wide. He was combative enough to regain possession, and also exhibited his passing traits to open up space in the opponents’ half.
Raphina: 8.5
What a signing he has been for Leeds! The Brazilian earned his second consecutive league start and delivered a stellar show with his footwork and expertise. Kept Pickford busy and kept on rotating his position with Harrison before finding the net with a stunning effort through Ben Godfrey’s legs. Made way for Ian Poveda with five minutes remaining of the normal time.
Mateusz Klich: 7.5
Had a few attempts off target but his work ethics in the centre of the pitch allowed the Whites to win the midfield battle. Linked up well with his teammates, tracked back to help the defensive line and often carried the ball forward to operate in and around the box.
Stuart Dallas: 7.5
The versatile Northern Irishman covered a lot of grass, kept on changing position with Alioski, Klich and the others, and also made three key passes that led to goal-scoring opportunities. Struggled physically at times against the likes of Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure.
Jack Harrison: 8
Played his part in Raphinha’s goal as he showed great understanding with the Brazilian in terms of switching flanks and combining high up the pitch. Wasted a glorious opportunity in the early minutes, denied off the line by Godfrey around the half-hour mark and hit the woodwork right before the half time whistle while attempting to head home Dallas’ cross. Made way for Helder Costa in the closing minutes of the match.
Patrick Bamford: 7
Wasted a big chance and forced Pickford to make one smart save as the in-form ‘number 9’ failed eventually to find the target. But he was pretty direct and dynamic forcing the Toffees to be on their toes defensively. Made way for Rodrigo in the final seconds.
Substitutes
Ian Poveda: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Helder Costa: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Rodrigo: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
