Leeds put an end to their ten-game winless streak in the Premier League with victory over 20th place Southampton at Elland Road. Junior Firpo’s late strike from inside the penalty area sent the home supporters wild and helped United climb back out of the relegation zone at the expense of last weekend’s opponents Everton.
Here are Graham Smyth’s player ratings from Saturday afternoon’s win.
1. Junior Firpo celebrates his goal
Junior Firpo celebrates his goal. Leeds United v Southampton. Premier League. Elland Road. Picture Bruce Rollinson 25 February 2023. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
2. Illan Meslier - 7
A spectator for the vast majority of the game. Late header from Summerville's miskick was about the height of it. (Pic: Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
3. Luke Ayling - 7
Recovered from a tough start when gave the ball away a few times, battled and helped Leeds play in the right areas. (Pic: Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
4. Robin Koch - 8
Did battle with a giant and somehow beat him in the air on multiple occasions, eventually seeing him off. Solid and steady. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Photo: George Wood
5. Max Wober - 7
If half marks were a thing he would be tucked in just behind Koch. One little wobble in possession that Firpo sorted out. Generally good. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) Photo: George Wood
6. Junior Firpo - 8
Performance was among his very best in a Leeds shirt. Produced good crosses, defended well, won the ball and won the game with the goal. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: OLI SCARFF