The game had an extraordinary build-up given the ‘spy saga’, and it seems like Bielsa’s spy had enough time to pass on the information before the Rams got to him. Jokes apart, Leeds United dominated the proceedings against Derby County and secured their first league double over them since the 2001-02 season by securing a comfortable 2-0 win against them.
Kemar Roofe scored the opening goal after some brilliant work from Jack Clarke down the right flank. Jack Harrison added comfort at the beginning of the second half and that was enough to end Derby’s chances as they never looked like making a comeback. United are back to winning ways after losing their last 3 games in all competitions.
Here is how they fared in the evening.
Bailey Peacock Farrell
Didn’t have much to do apart from claiming some crosses and high balls. Did a decent job overall.
Ezgjan Alioski 7
Looked threatening while playing as a left back. Delivered some good crosses and was always high up the pitch. Improved remarkably from his previous performances.
Liam Cooper 7
Calming influence at the back and looked unbeatable for the most parts of the game. Good comeback from injury for the captain. Missed an easy chance to score in the first half.
Pontus Jansson 8
Didn’t put a foot wrong throughout the game. Smothered everything that came his way. Looked assured on the ball and was strong in his challenges.
Luke Ayling 7.5
Was at his best in the right back position and looked assured and committed in his challenges. Always looked to drive forward and it was a tireless performance from the fullback. Made a crucial goal-saving block in the first half.
Adam Forshaw 8
An outstanding display from the former Boro man. Always looked to get on the ball and distributed it well. Was all across the pitch and made some smart challenges and stopped quite a few Derby attacks from developing.
Mateusz Klich 7
Improved display from the midfielder and it seemed like he was back to his best. Linked up play well and showed an immense work rate.
Pablo Hernandez 7.5
Was a concern for the game due to injury but went on to start. The Spaniard was again the focal point of almost every attack. An assured display from the experienced man.
Jack Clarke 8.5
Finally got a start and showed why everyone has been crying out to give him the full 90 minutes. Was in the thick of things in almost all the bright moments for the Whites. Played a big part in both the goals and a man of the match display from the youngster.
Jack Harrison 6.5
Scored a tap in which should boost his confidence. Had an average game overall, apart from the goal he scored.
Kemar Roofe 8
Made a smart run to get to Clarke’s ball for the first goal and finished without fuss. Was a constant threat in the attacking third with his movement and often dropped deep to get more on the ball. A complete all-round performance.
Substitutes
Jamie Shackleton 7
Provided fresh legs later on and looked sharp.
Leif Davis N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.