“Leeds United Player Ratings vs Sunderland: Pascal Struijk Steals the Show, But One Teammate Slips to a Shocking 4/10

“Leeds United Player Ratings vs Sunderland: Pascal Struijk Steals the Show, But One Teammate Slips to a Shocking 4/10

Leeds United found themselves chasing an equalizer in their promotion battle against Sunderland on Monday night. In a dramatic twist, they managed to secure a 2-1 victory.

The match at Elland Road was a crucial promotion clash, with both teams looking to secure a vital win.

Leeds had just thrashed Watford 4-0 in their previous match, while Sunderland had beaten Luton Town, leaving seven points between the two teams in the Championship table before kick-off.

Sunderland took the lead through Wilson Isidor, who skillfully turned Ethan Ampadu and finished off the post for a 1-0 advantage.

It wasn’t until the 78th minute that Leeds found their equalizer, with substitute Pascal Struijk heading in a Joe Rothwell corner.

In dramatic fashion, Struijk netted a last-minute goal in the 95th minute to keep Leeds’ promotion hopes alive.

Leeds United player ratings vs Sunderland:

Illan Meslier – 6/10

Made a couple of decent saves early on but had a quiet night overall, ending his streak of six consecutive clean sheets.

Junior Firpo – 6/10

Linked up well with Manor Solomon in attack, but struggled against Sunderland’s resilient right side. Didn’t have much impact on the game.

Ethan Ampadu – 5/10

His performance was marred by being easily turned by Isidor for Sunderland’s opening goal. Otherwise, he was solid, but that error was crucial.

Joe Rodon – 6/10

Started strong but lacked communication with Ampadu later in the game. Defended less in the second half and focused more on passing.

Jayden Bogle – 7/10

Arguably Leeds’ best player, both in defense and attack. He had a couple of sloppy moments but made several runs forward, troubling Sunderland without creating any standout moments.

Ilia Gruev – 4/10

Struggled in midfield and frustrated many fans with his sideways passing. He was substituted in the second half after failing to make an impact, including on set-piece duties.

Ao Tanaka – 6/10

Had a tough game and didn’t contribute much in the first half. Though he improved as the game went on, he didn’t have his usual impact.

Manor Solomon – 7/10

Leeds’ biggest attacking threat but struggled to make a major impact. He had a physical battle with Sunderland’s Trai Hume and may have been hindered by an early knock.

Brenden Aaronson – 5/10

Quiet throughout the game with only a couple of decent turns and passes. He struggled to get involved in a crowded midfield.

Dan James – 6/10

Only showcased his pace a few times. Sunderland appeared to have planned for his speed by sitting back and defending, limiting his impact.

Joel Piroe – 6/10

Had little to work with, particularly in the first half, as the game didn’t suit his style. He had a couple of chances, including a long-range shot, but overall, it wasn’t a standout performance.

Pascal Struijk – 8/10

The hero of the night, Struijk came off the bench and scored two crucial goals, including a well-taken dramatic equalizer.

Joe Rothwell – 7/10

Instantly made an impact with his set-piece delivery and proved he should be starting in important games like this one.