Leeds United hosted Brentford at Elland Road, and they continued with their excellent start to the season as they registered a last gasp 1-0 win over the Bees.
The game lacked any cutting edge for most parts of the first half, and meaningful action only started to take place after the first 20 minutes. Brentford hit the post through Mbeumo as Casilla was well beaten. Klich got a decent chance as well soon after, but Raya was behind it to save the attempt. Bamford too registered a few tries, and he headed over from a scorable opportunity as both teams went in level at half time.
United were in the ascendency in the second 45, but it seemed like the tie would end in a goalless draw. However, United’s two summer signings, Helder Costa and Eddie Nketiah combined to give the Whites a lead which turned out to be a winner in the 81st minute.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared on the night.
Kiko Casilla 6
Had just one big test throughout the game as Mbeumo came close to scoring as he hit the post. Apart from that, made some regulation saves.
Liam Cooper 7
Kept Brentford’s forwards under check and was comfortable in leading the side from the back.
Ben White 7
Dealt with whatever came his way and the youngster once again came up with a composed performance at the back.
Ezgjan Alioski 6
Got his chance due to Douglas’ injury. Made some decent attacking contributions but often dwelled on the ball too much. Not too terrible, not too great.
Stuart Dallas 8
Was brilliant down the right with his forward runs. Linked up play well and used his energy and pace to trouble the opposition.
Kalvin Phillips 6.5
An easy game for Phillips as he spent most of the time in opposition’s half. Moved the ball well. Nothing spectacular but an assured performance.
Mateusz Klich 7
Got in some good positions in the attacking third but failed to come up with the final delivery. Looked lively and sharp.
Adam Forshaw 7
Played with high intensity and firepower. Linked up play well and always looked to move forward quickly. Provided an impressive work rate.
Pablo Hernandez 6
Not the best of the game for the Spaniard. Tried to be too intricate sometimes. Did okay but not at his usual standards today.
Jack Harrison 5.5
Was ineffective in the final third and him and Alioski just didn’t have the link-up play going down the left. Was trying to be too cute on occasions instead of keeping things simple.
Patrick Bamford 7
His movement was once again sharp as he found himself in some good positions. Can improve with his finishing. Worked hard and kept the opposition defence on edge.
Substitutes
Helder Costa 8
Provided the much-needed energy and impetus after coming on. Made some lively runs down the right and presented the goal for Nketiah on a plate.
Eddie Nketiah 7.5
Made some incisive runs as soon as he came on and he was in the right place at the right time to finish for the goal. Making a good case to start in the near future.
Gaetano Berardi N/A
Wasn’t involved much after coming on. Made a howler of a pass at the very end which could have cost Leeds dearly in the end.
