Leeds United travelled to the Valley to regain their top spot after Nottingham Forest’s win on Friday. However, they failed to conjure up anything as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat.
The Whites started well but lacked the invention to break down the Charlton defence. United had 71 per cent of the ball in the first 45 minutes, but the home team were comfortable when defending at the back. Charlton scored against the run of play through a corner around the half-hour mark. The Whites applied some late pressure, but they only had to be content with some half chances. The home team went into the half-time break with a 1-0 lead.
Bielsa made some changes at half time, but that wasn’t enough as the Whites failed to find the equaliser. Nketiah earned a decent chance late on in the game, but his volley went agonisingly wide off the post from six-yards out. United had 19 attempts on target but they were once again guilty of being wasteful in the final third. Even with less possession and with fewer shots, Charlton deserved their three points today.
Here is how Bielsa’s men fared on another frustrating afternoon.
Kiko Casilla 5.5
Could have done slightly better for the goal he conceded. Made two decent saves. Was a spectator other than that.
Ben White 7
The youngster produced another assured performance in defence as he swept up everything that came his way. Let down by his team-mates while defending the corner, which led to the goal.
Liam Cooper 6
Had some tough times while defending set-pieces but was mostly alright. Comfortable in possession.
Stuart Dallas 5.5
Played with intent but lacked the final product. Put in a few decent crosses but not too effective apart from that.
Ezgjan Alioski 5.5
One of his attempts was cleared off the line. Provided his usually energy and tenacity but like many of his team-mates, ineffective in the final third.
Kalvin Phillips 4
Usually produces a steady performance but the Englishman was visibly out of form today. Was caught in possession several times. Misplaced a few passes as well.
Mateusz Klich 6
The only player who looked like creating and doing something in the final third. Took a few decent attempts. Played with his usual energy.
Jamie Shackleton 4
Ran around like a headless chicken in the first 45. Couldn’t provide anything meaningful and was substituted at half time.
Helder Costa 4
Got his first league start but was anonymous for the most part. No driving runs or intensity. Improved as the game went on but still could do better.
Jack Harrison 5
Put in some delightful crosses down the left which fell in no man’s land. Was wasteful in the final third.
Patrick Bamford 3
Was hardly able to get into the game. Dropped in deep a few times and that was the only time he was visible. Had a half chance but nothing much apart from that.
Substitutes
Adam Forshaw 6
Came on for Shackleton and brought much more control in the middle.
Tyler Roberts 4
Came on after a lengthy injury spell. Looked rusty and his touches were slightly off.
Eddie Nketiah 5.5
Had one decent chance but apart from that nothing to feed on. Brought some much-needed pace after coming on.
