Leeds United hosted West Brom at Elland Road and came up with a 1-0 victory on the night to stop their slide which saw them win just one game from the last four clashes. What would satisfy the fans was that they were able to hold on to their lead.
The Whites dominated the proceedings, to begin with, but West Brom showed promise from time to time. United were dealt a blow as Liam Cooper went off early in the first half due to an injury. The home team took the lead through Ezgjan Alioski after some good work from Klich and Costa. They could have doubled their lead, but Sam Johnstone pulled off a blinder to keep his team in the game.
West Brom got a golden chance to equalise early on in the second half when Phillips came close to scoring. The Baggies enjoyed more of the possession in the second half, but they couldn’t find the equaliser. Bielsa would be glad that his side were finally able to keep a one-goal lead intact to secure maximum points on the night.
Here is how they fared on the night.
Kiko Casilla 7
Saved an impressive attempt from Matheus Pereira. Almost gave his side a heart attack as he came 40 yards off the line to clear a long ball. Nevertheless, an assured performance overall from the Spaniard.
Liam Cooper 6
Had to go off with a groin injury around the half-hour mark. Looked decent until that point.
Ben White 6.5
Made an error as he misplaced a pass but apart from that, nothing troubled him much and had a comfortable game overall.
Stuart Dallas 7
Known for his offensive qualities, Dallas held his own at the back and dealt with all the dangers that came his way. Played with his usual intensity and made some darting forward runs.
Ezgjan Alioski 7.5
His perseverance and tenacity paid off as he scored the only goal of the game. Always looked to support his team in attack. Did his defensive job astutely.
Kalvin Phillips 7
After a poor game last time around, the fans got to see the usual performance from Phillips; snapping into challenges, winning some duels and safe passing. A decent game for the Englishman.
Jamie Shackleton 7
Provided his usual energy in the middle and looked sharp with his movements as he occupied some good positions. Surprising that he was taken off at half time after a good first half.
Mateusz Klich 6
Played a smart pass for the only goal of the game. Made a few wrong choices in the final third. He made some needless attempts at goal. Misplaced a few passes as well.
Helder Costa 7
An improved performance from the new signing as he used his pace to good effect. Linked up play well with Dallas down the right. Played a part in the goal.
Jack Harrison 6
Continues to frustrate with his final product and was lucky that Alioski was able to hammer in a shot for the goal to save his skin. Apart from that, did a fine job with his movement and was able to beat his man with some smart skills.
Patrick Bamford 7.5
Didn’t score but can’t really fault him much for today’s performance. Excellent work rate and his constant movement was too tough for the opposition to handle. Linked up play well.
Substitutes
Luke Ayling 6
Played the last fifteen months after months of injury layoff. Did alright.
Tyler Roberts 6.5
Came on as a substitute but had to go off with an injury. Looked bright for the 25 minutes he was on the pitch as he combined well with Bamford.
Gaetano Berardi 7
Filled in for the injured captain well. Played it safe and was never really troubled.
