Leeds United vs QPR: Player Ratings – Leeds Secure Comfortable Victory
Leeds United continued their impressive form with a dominant 2-0 win over Queens Park Rangers (QPR) today. Here’s a breakdown of how each player performed in what was a largely comfortable afternoon for the Whites at Elland Road.
Illan Meslier – 6
Meslier had a quiet game, with little to do in the way of shot-stopping. His only notable action was collecting a cross in the 92nd minute. While he didn’t have to make any crucial saves, his presence at the back was solid enough to help his defence keep a clean sheet.
Jayden Bogle – 9 (Man of the Match)
Bogle was a constant threat down the right flank and undoubtedly the standout performer of the match. He opened the scoring with a scrappy yet well-taken strike in a crowded penalty box, which proved crucial in breaking the deadlock against a QPR side that had been sitting deep. His pace and attacking intent caused QPR constant problems, and he was involved in almost every Leeds attack. An all-action display from the right-back, who also looked composed defensively.
Joe Rodon – 6
Rodon had a relatively quiet game, with QPR offering little in terms of attacking threat. However, the Welsh international did well when called upon, making a few timely interceptions and playing some nice, incisive passes to progress the ball forward. Overall, it was a solid and unspectacular performance.
Pascal Struijk – 7
Struijk was rarely tested defensively but still enjoyed a strong performance. He was calm on the ball and contributed to the team’s attacking build-up, moving the ball forward effectively and starting several counter-attacks. His positional awareness was solid, ensuring that QPR never got a sniff at goal.
Sam Byram – 7
Byram was solid in his return to the starting XI after Junior Firpo’s suspension. Like the rest of the backline, he wasn’t forced into action too often but showed his quality in getting forward. His overlapping runs down the left created some dangerous moments, and he was unlucky to see a header from a great run go just wide. His defensive work was tidy, and his link-up play with the attackers was encouraging.
Joe Rothwell – 8
Rothwell was excellent in midfield, playing a key role in dictating the tempo of the match. His quick feet and intelligent passing helped unlock QPR’s defensive setup. A particularly notable moment was his run and cross to set up the opening goal. Rothwell’s dribbling also allowed him to move past defenders, and he looked a constant creative outlet for Leeds.
Ao Tanaka – 7
Tanaka partnered well with Rothwell in the middle of the park. His ability to switch play and deliver a perfectly timed cross-field ball to Byram was one of the highlights of the game. While he didn’t need to do too much defensive work, his tactical intelligence and passing were key to controlling the match.
Willy Gnonto – 5
Gnonto had an off day. While there were occasional flashes of his trademark skill, he was largely ineffective and lacked sharpness in the final third. He had several opportunities to make an impact but either misjudged the pass or failed to make the right decision in the final moments. A frustrating game for the young forward.
Brenden Aaronson – 8
Aaronson played a pivotal role in Leeds’ attacking play, showcasing his creativity and work rate. His thunderous shot that rattled the crossbar was a standout moment, and he was involved in the build-up to the disallowed goal. The American was a consistent threat, linking up well with teammates and driving the team forward with energy and purpose.
Manor Solomon – 5
Solomon’s first start for Leeds was a mixed one. He struggled to make a real impact, often trying to do too much on the ball, which led to wasted possession. However, he did deliver a couple of dangerous crosses into the box. His disallowed goal was a sign of his potential, but overall, it was a disappointing performance considering the opportunity to impress.
Mateo Joseph – 5
Joseph was given the chance to lead the line in place of Joel Piroe but failed to make a significant impact. He struggled to hold up the ball and wasn’t able to link play effectively. His lack of presence in attack was noticeable, and it came as no surprise when he was substituted for Piroe in the second half.
Substitutes
Joel Piroe – 7
Piroe made an instant impact after coming on in the 71st minute, nearly scoring right away if not for a brilliant block from a QPR defender. He was more involved than Joseph and found the back of the net late in the game, sealing the win for Leeds. His clinical finish will likely see him return to the starting XI after the international break.
Dan James – 6
James provided a much-needed injection of pace after coming on for the final 20 minutes. His direct running added another dimension to Leeds’ attack, and he helped stretch the QPR defence, even if he didn’t get on the scoresheet.
Joshua Guilavogui – 6
Guilavogui helped to see out the victory, offering fresh legs and composure in midfield. His intelligent tackling and distribution allowed Leeds to keep possession and control the game in the final stages.
Isaac Schmidt – 6.5
Schmidt looked bright in his brief cameo. He showed good movement and awareness in the build-up to the second goal and looked to offer another option going forward. His performance in the short time he was on the pitch was promising.
Final Thoughts:
Leeds United were comfortable winners in this encounter, with Jayden Bogle’s early goal settling nerves. The Whites controlled the match from start to finish, with strong individual performances across the pitch. The win was a well-deserved three points, and despite a few quiet outings from some players, Leeds never looked in danger. With Joel Piroe’s return and the attacking options available, Leeds will be confident heading into the international break.
