Leeds United continued their excellent start to the Championship as they secured a 3-0 victory against Stoke City. Stoke started well, but the Whites were the dominant side as they created waves of attacks after they settled in the first half. Klich had one half-chance early on. Fullback Stuart Dallas who was a doubt to start scored the opener as he finished off a slick move as Hernandez found him with a delightful pass. The away team went in 1-0 up at the half time.
The home team looked good initially in the second half, but United took control of the game soon. Alioski scored an easy goal as Bamford and Hernandez combined well. Bamford added the third after Hernandez played another impressive pass and Alioski’s shot fell kindly to the English striker who made it 3-0.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared.
Kiko Casilla 6
Was hardly tested in goal. Distributed the ball well.
Gaetano Berardi 7
Made some crucial blocks early on as Stoke looked bright. Did a decent job filling in for the captain.
Ben White 8
Another assured performance from the youngster. Looks mature beyond his years as his decision making always seems to be on point. Comfortable on the ball, won his duels and strong in the air.
Ezgjan Alioski 7
Showed great desire and commitment, and that lead to the second goal as he got to the ball first. Showed great energy and combined well.
Stuart Dallas 8
The run from deep for the first goal was a brilliant one. Finished calmly and looked threatening every time he got on the ball.
Kalvin Phillips 6.5
Stayed back and covered well in defence. Nothing too spectacular but a steady performance.
Mateusz Klich 6.5
Had some decent chances from the edge of the box where he could have done better. Showed high work rate like always.
Adam Forshaw 7
Played a part in the first goal. Could have scored himself but he failed to bury his chance. Moved the ball well and played with intensity.
Pablo Hernandez 8
Started slowly but showed his quality with a great ball to Dallas. Combined well for Bamford’s goal as well. Just looks like a seasoned artist at work when he is on a song.
Jack Harrison 5.5
Played in a central role but wasn’t too sharp with his link-up play. Held the ball a bit too much. Had one great chance to release Klich on goal but he failed to release for the pass.
Patrick Bamford 7.5
Combined well and his off the ball movement was smart again. Assisted the second goal and got his goal as well later on. Justified starting over Nketiah.
Substitutes
Eddie Nketiah N/A
Wasn’t involved much after coming on.
Helder Costa 7
Looked a significant threat and could have got United’s fourth as his shot was just wide off the mark.
Jamie Shackleton N/A
Played too little to warrant a rating.
