Leeds United did the double over Sheffield United with a much-deserved 2-1 win at Elland Road.
The Whites came into this game knowing a win over the Premier League’s bottom club would lift them into the top half.
They were well worth their lead when Jack Harrison rolled into an empty net in the first half, but were pegged back against the run of play by Ben Osborn.
However, the Blades weren’t on level terms for too long as Phil Jagielka diverted Harrison’s cross into his own net to seal the win.
It was a hugely dominant performance over 90 minutes and Leeds could easily have extended their lead in the second half.
Here, we deliver our player ratings for Leeds’ win over the Blades at Elland Road…
Illan Meslier – 8
Could do nothing for the goal he conceded and will regret not keeping a clean sheet but dealt with the rest comfortably.
Claimed crosses and passed out superbly.
Luke Ayling – 7
Ayling was in the action from the outset and did well to deal with what was thrown his way.
Not his best in attack but still did enough to help Leeds to a win.
Diego Llorente – 8
So classy throughout the game and reads play beyond most in our side.
Intercepts passes with great speed and picks the right pass most of the time; a cut above.
Liam Cooper – 7
Solid return to the lineup after illness.
Wasn’t outstanding but did his job well and there can’t be complaints after he replaced Pascal Struijk.
Gjanni Alioski – 6
Shaky again and it does seem more and more by the week that Alioski is the weak link.
Never looked assured at the back in and out of possession.
Kalvin Phillips – 8
Back from international break and keeping up his strong momentum.
Dominated midfield as usual and didn’t really have to break stride to keep pace with the visitors’ attacks.
Raphinha – 8
Dazzling from start to finish, and just a class above his Sheffield United counterparts.
Set up the goal with brilliant play down the right, and would have scored if not for Phil Jagielka’s intervention.
Tyler Roberts – 7
Pulled strings in midfield once again but lacked a cutting edge once breaking into the box.
Pushing on an eight rating but needs to make his hard work deeper in the pitch count with something at the end of it.
Stuart Dallas – 8
Ally McCoist named him Man of the Match and while it’s a controversial choice, it’s justified.
His work in central midfield has been exemplary and another game here where he’s shown he can cut it.
Jack Harrison – 8
A goal and an assist (we’ll give him it) to continue his fine run in 2021.
A great shift out wide and never stopped running, but what else is new?
Patrick Bamford – 7
Bamford toiled up front for no reward in terms of a goal but was always involved in attack and worked very hard until he was brought off.
Subs
Rodrigo – 6
Some smart runs to get in behind but couldn’t make it stick.
More minutes in the tank though and that’s the main thing for him.
Mateusz Klich – N/a
Came on late and barely had the chance to do much even with the game stretched.
Robin Koch – N/a
Came on in added time and more minutes again for him, nice to see he’s getting towards a full return.