Andoni Iraola reveals where Leeds United were ‘a level above’ Bournemouth
Leeds United drew 2-2 with Bournemouth in an entertaining but heartbreaking game on Saturday.
Antoine Semenyo opened the scoring for The Cherries at Elland Road, but Leeds pulled ahead with goals from Joe Rodon and Sean Longstaff on 27 September.
However, Bournemouth had the final say with an equalising goal from Eli Kroupi in the 93rd minute.
Leeds will be kicking themselves after letting a lead slip so late in the game, but that’s a good indication of their progression in the Premier League this season.
The point takes them up to 11th in the league and keeps them five points clear of the relegation places, as things stand.
Andoni Iroala admits where Leeds were ‘a level above’
Bournemouth arrived at Elland Road in fantastic form, and the point keeps them in the top five.
However, after the game, Andoni Iraola admitted that Leeds were a level above when it came to certain basic aspects of the game.
Speaking to AFCB TV, he said: “We normally accept this kind of physicality, but I think today they were a level above us. Reading the situations, every free kick, every long throw, they put you under pressure here, and it became uncomfortable.”
Iraola’s comments are testament to the efforts of Leeds’ midfield. Sean Longstaff, in particular, was all over the pitch against Bournemouth, as well as contributing a goal and an assist.
The compliments from Iraola bode well for Daniel Farke’s side, who host Tottenham Hotspur in their next game in West Yorkshire on 4 October.
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Leeds have the players to compete well against most Premier League sides
Some pundits have suggested that home form will be key to Leeds’ survival, but the Whites have shown they have the players to cause problems in the Premier League at home and away.
Aside from the 5-0 mauling at Arsenal, Leeds have competed well in every game.
- They have looked strong and organised in defence.
- Longstaff, Ethan Amapadu and Anton Stach have dominated midfield battles.
- If they had held on to win this game, they would be cemented firmly in the top half.
Leeds are looking stronger in attack, with every passing game as well. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is showing signs of peak form, while the likes of Stach and Noah Okafor will only improve with more Premier League experience.
If Leeds can keep their key players fit and firing, it could be a memorable season for everyone connected with the Elland Road club.
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