Leeds United moved one step closer towards securing the direct promotion to the Premier League next season by registering a narrow 1-0 win over Swansea City. The Whites were made to work hard for the victory as the Swans defended in deep blocks. And just when it seemed that the game was heading to a goalless draw, a neat finish from Pablo Hernandez helped Leeds seal all three points.
Leeds United Player Ratings Vs Swansea City
Illan Meslier 7.5/10
Illan Meslier made an important save to deny Connor Gallagher’s header while his punching clearance in the dying embers of the game was crucial as Leeds United managed to hold on to their one-goal advantage. Another deserved clean sheet for the youngster.
Luke Ayling 7.5/10
Luke Ayling had a busy afternoon, marauding up and down the right flank. Defensively, he was always there to provide a passing option in the build-up play while the right-back also moved forward whenever it was necessary. It was his cross that led to the opener.
Ben White 8/10
Ben White had an excellent game at the back. The Leeds United centre-back imposed his presence with some smart display of defending. Also, the Englishman was confident with his passing and forays down the midfield.
Liam Cooper 8/10
Liam Cooper marshalled the Leeds United backline with his sheer determination and aggression. His experience was also key in dealing with the likes of Rhian Brewster and Andre Ayew. A top display by the Whites captain.
Stuart Dallas 6.5/10
Stuart Dallas looked bright in the first half, often marching forward and moving infield. In fact, he was one of Leeds’ main sources of inspiration but was taken off after half-time.
Kalvin Phillips 7/10
Kalvin Phillips had a decent game after initially struggling to impose his authority in midfield. He was composed with his passing game and offered more assurance during the possession phase for Leeds United.
Helder Costa 7.5/10
Helder Costa may not have been as influential as he was against Stoke City, but the Portuguese winger provided a constant attacking threat for his side. He notably made some vital runs from the wide channels while his smart combination play with Ayling was key in the lead up to the Hernandez goal.
Mateusz Klich 7/10
Mateusz Klich also had a decent game, hovering around the attacking areas of the pitch. He provided his teammates with a vital passing option while his relentless running and closing down made Leeds much more effective in the first line of press.
Tyler Roberts 5/10
Tyler Roberts once again failed to make any noticeable impact today. In fact, he has mostly been anonymous and must improve if the Welshman is to establish himself as a first-team regular for Leeds United. Hooked off at half-time.
Jack Harrison 7/10
Just like Costa, Jack Harrison wasn’t as influential as he would have liked due to Swansea’s strong defences. However, the winger provided the flair and dynamism that was essential in helping Leeds United provide relentless pressure throughout the game.
Patrick Bamford 7/10
Patrick Bamford once again looked sharp in his movements, running tirelessly throughout the game. But, the striker should have netted a goal in the second half, but his header from close range went straight into the arms of Freddie Woodman.
SUBSTITUTES
Pablo Hernandez 9/10
Marcelo Bielsa made the customary change in the second half by bringing on Pablo Hernandez, at the expense of Roberts. And that move made all the difference as the Spaniard offered a lot of creative essences and opened up a host of possibilities for the Leeds United attack. Produced an accurate finish to score the all-important winner late in the game.
Ezgjan Alioski 7.5/10
Replacing Dallas on the left flank at the start of the second half, Egzjan Alioski camped himself in the Swansea City half. The combined pressure of him and Harrison made the Welsh side a little more vulnerable while the Macedonian himself produced a lot of dangerous crosses from the wide areas.
James Shackleton N/A
Replaced the tiring Costa in the late stages of the game in an attempt to eat away a few additional seconds.
Gaetano Berardi N/A
A late replacement for Harrison as Bielsa opted for more defensive bodies to preserve the lead.
