Leeds United: Patrick Bamford disappoints, Illan Meslier in 8/10 – Player ratings v Sunderland
Leeds United failed to take advantage of Leicester City’s unexpected defeat to Millwall as they drew 0-0 with Sunderland at Elland Road on Tuesday (9 April).
It was a disappointing night in Yorkshire as the teams cancelled each other out, with Leeds failing to score for the first time since the 1-0 defeat to West Brom in December.
Ipswich Town are the real winners from the match, who are set to face Watford on Wednesday 10 April, though the tense Championship title race continues to go down to the wire.
Here, MOT Leeds News rated Leeds players’ performances out of 10.
Illan Meslier saves the day as Leeds United draw v Sunderland
Illan Meslier – 8
Any shots from Sunderland seemed to be straight at the shot-stopper. Nonetheless, he needed to be switched, especially against the threat of Jack Clarke. Man of the match.
Archie Gray – 5
Had a mixed night against Clarke on the right flank, allowing the Sunderland winger into the box. Being busy in defence meant he was unable to help Dan James further up the pitch as much.
Ethan Ampadu – 8
Almost slipped at a crucial time in the first half but picked himself up, dusted himself off, and performed well during a tricky match at Elland Road. Made an incredible block to deny Clarke.
Joe Rodon – 7
Continued his strong centre-back partnership with Wales partner Ampadu. Seemed the calmest presence on the pitch, standing strong and dictating play with accurate passing.
Junior Firpo – 4
Tried to fly up the pitch in support of Crysencio Summerville. Gave up possession far too much, however, leaving his defence to mop up any Sunderland attacks.
Ilia Gruev – 5
Struggled to get involved higher up the pitch. Did his job at the base of midfield, though, securing the middle of the park with Glen Kamara.
Glen Kamara – 6
Went under the radar somewhat, quietly keeping the midfield at bay with arrowed passing, while pushing his team up the pitch. Sacrificed for an attacking change with 20 minutes remaining.
Whites attackers fail to make desired impact
Dan James – 5
Looked the most threatening out of the front four, attempting to get in behind Trai Hume. Final ball, like his teammates, was not good enough. Thought he’d won a penalty before the offside flag was raised.
Georginio Rutter – 3
Was trying too hard to take on the Black Cats all by himself, rather than finding the easy pass or firing a shot when given the opportunity.
Crysencio Summerville – 3
One of his worst displays in recent weeks, totally invisible apart from one blocked shot in the first half that bounced off Daniel Ballard’s elbow in the penalty area, though the referee would award a penalty.
Patrick Bamford – 2
Sluggish in attack, sloppy on the ball, careless in possession. Only managed one shot in a must-win match, which sailed high into the Elland Road stands.
Substitutes
Wilfried Gnonto (On for Glen Kamara 71′) – 4
Brought on to spice up the attack but had no real effect on the game.
Joel Piroe (On for Dan James 82′) – N/A
Mateo Joseph (On for Patrick Bamford 83′) – N/A
Connor Roberts (On for Archie Gray 83′) – N/A
In other Leeds United news, a guarantee shared by Don Goodman has already come true.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.