Leeds United regained their place at the top of the Championship table in emphatic fashion, securing a 3-0 win over Fulham. It was an important win for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, who looked out of pace in their first post-lockdown game against Cardiff City. But, despite early first-half pressure from Fulham, goals from Patrick Bamford, Ezgjan Alioski and Jack Harrison ensured all three points for the Whites.
Leeds United Player Ratings Vs Fulham
Illan Meslier 7.5/10
A much better performance from Illan Meslier, who once again managed to preserve a clean sheet. The Frenchman stepped up to the plate whenever it was needed, notably making a couple of important saves in the first half. Barely had to sweat after the restart.
Luke Ayling 8/10
A tremendous display from Luke Ayling, who had to operate in a deeper role to deal with Fulham’s offensive threat. The right-back was quite competent against the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Neeskens Kabano, playing a key role in helping Leeds preserve their clean sheet.
Ben White 9/10
One of the best performers this afternoon, Ben White was simply brilliant. The centre-back showed incredible defensive prowess to keep Mitrovic quiet throughout the game. He also looked confident in his defensive actions and passed the ball forward without any real problems. A comprehensive display at the back.
Liam Cooper 8.5/10
Complemented the efforts of White, providing ample coverage throughout the game. Liam Cooper’s commitment, in particular, was undoubtedly commendable as even in the final stages of the game, the defender was willing to launch himself to preserve his side’s clean sheet.
Stuart Dallas 8/10
Much like Ayling, Stuart Dallas’ impeccable defensive performance was critical in minimising Fulham’s attacking potential. Indeed, the left-back didn’t allow Anthony Knockaert any space whatsoever on the far side. Also ventured forward when it was necessary.
Kalvin Phillips 8.5/10
A top-class display from Kalvin Phillips this afternoon. The midfielder showed incredible work-ethic, technical prowess and leadership to help Leeds United seal a 3-0 victory. His athleticism, in particular, caught the eye while the number six was also willing to venture forward and pick out useful passes in the final third.
Helder Costa 7/10
Helder Costa didn’t have the best of games this evening. .He initially struggled to break the Fulham defence from the right flank and became virtually useless when the opposition started to dominate the game. He was rightly taken off at half-time, though it was his squared pass that led to the all-important opener from Bamford.
Mateusz Klich 7.5/10
It was yet another hard-working display from Mateusz Klich this afternoon. The Pole covered a lot of ground and provided ample cover for Phillips when the Leeds star was venturing forward. He was taken off late in the game.
Tyler Roberts 7.5/10
Although Tyler Roberts didn’t enjoy as much freedom as he would have liked in the number ten role, he always tried to make things happen in the first half. After the restart, he was always a threat for the Fulham backline, making useful runs and dropping deep when necessary.
Jack Harrison 7.5/10
Harrison struggled to maintain his consistency throughout the game. But, the Manchester City loanee delivered when necessary, notably getting an assist for the Alioski goal while scoring the third himself to help Leeds United seal all three points.
Patrick Bamford 7.5/10
Bamford certainly enjoyed a better time than he did in the last game. He was willing to drop deep and influence the game while letting Costa shift into a more central role. He was rewarded for his efforts, though credit should be given to the striker for making full use of his chance with an excellent finish. However, the ex-Chelsea starlet was shockingly taken off at half-time.
SUBSTITUTES
Pablo Hernandez 9/10
Pablo Hernandez was by far the most impactful player as it was his creative essence that changed the game entirely in the second half. Initially replacing Bamford during half-time, the Spaniard announced his return to full fitness in an emphatic fashion, threading a host of delightful passes in the final third. His through ball to feed Harrison for the third goal is a strong contender for the assist of the season.
Ezgjan Alioski 8/10
Replaced Costa during half-time and provided the spark and the athleticism that was missing in the final third. His work ethic was also met by a pinch of luck as a Fulham mistake led to his goal in the second half, effectively killing the game.
Barry Douglas N/A
Replaced the tiring Klich in the 80th minute as Marcelo Bielsa opted for fresh legs.
Ian Poveda N/A
A late replacement for substitute Hernandez.
