For Leeds United, although they were managing to grind out results of late, a midweek defeat to QPR saw them slip to third in the Championship standings. But they had an opportunity to reclaim the leading spot tonight by grabbing a win over West Brom at the Elland Road.
The Baggies, also contesting for a return to the top tier, were tipped to throw a hefty challenge in this Friday night fixture. But in reality, it turned out to be the other way round as Marcelo Bielsa’s men secured an astounding 4-0 victory to demolish the visitors.
Below are the Leeds United players rated in their emphatic win against West Bromwich Albion.
Kiko Casilla: 7
The veteran Spaniard was protected by his backline but was confident as well as alert between the sticks. Pulled off a strong save in the first half to deny Jay Rodriguez from a distance and prevented the opponents from staging a comeback.
Luke Ayling: 7.5
Balanced his game with the timely defensive contribution alongside overlapping runs to combine with his teammates down the right-hand flank.
Pontus Jansson: 7.5
Was solid in the heart of Leeds backline with his physicality as well as aerial presence. Pulled off key blocks, tackles as well as interceptions. Made some no-nonsense clearances, and took the ball out from the deep to distribute it upfront.
Liam Cooper: 8
Made some clumsy challenges early on, but delivered a towering display otherwise. Was in the right place at the right time and frustrated Dwight Gayle throughout the match.
Ezgjan Alioski: 8
Once again started the game as a makeshift left-back. Had some initial struggle against the physicality of Hal Robson-Kanu and Rekeem Harper’s pace. But he kept on troubling the Baggies backline with his relentless runs, speed and crosses. Found the net in the closing seconds to make it 4-0 for the Whites.
Kalvin Phillips: 8.5
Was outstanding in his role in between the backline and midfield four. Kept on winning the ball back with hard tackles and carried it forward to form counter-attacking threats. Never let West Brom settle in and dominated possession in the middle of the park.
Pablo Hernandez: 9
A stunning strike from outside the box earned Leeds a breakthrough within 20 seconds of the game. Hernandez worked tirelessly to link-up from the flank, down the middle as well as in and around the box. Another exhilarating display from the veteran Spaniard.
Tyler Roberts: 8.5
The youngster impressed with his pace, swift skills, smart moves and one-twos. Kept on creating space high up the pitch and also assisted Patrick Bamford in both of his goals. Received standing ovation from the supporters while being replaced by Jamie Shackleton in the closing seconds.
Mateusz Klich: 8
Dominated the midfield game with his high work ethics and ability to orchestrate the flow with box-to-box movements. Tested Sam Johnstone in West Brom goal. Also kept on winning the back with timely tackles, blocks and interceptions.
Jack Harrison: 7.5
Assisted Hernandez for his opener and linked up well with Alisoki down the left flank. His crosses could have been a bit more accurate at times. However, the Manchester City loanee left his mark before making way for Stuart Dallas late in the game.
Patrick Bamford: 8.5
Had a disappointing occasion against QPR but exhibited his goal-poaching instinct tonight by netting twice – once each in both the halves. Worked hard and also helped the midfield by tracking back and making timely challenges.
Substitutes
Stuart Dallas: 6
Injected freshness on the pitch and helped the Whites to retain the tempo.
Jamie Shackleton: 6
Assisted Alioski seconds after his inclusion in the closing seconds.
