SOLE REPLY: Raphinha pulls a goal back for Leeds United against Arsenal from the penalty spot. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.SOLE REPLY: Raphinha pulls a goal back for Leeds United against Arsenal from the penalty spot. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
SOLE REPLY: Raphinha pulls a goal back for Leeds United against Arsenal from the penalty spot. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

Leeds United 1 Arsenal 4: Graham Smyth's player ratings as Illan Meslier prevents further Gunners damage

An injury-hit Leeds United were beaten 4-1 by Arsenal in Saturday evening's Premier League clash at Elland Road - but how did we rate the performances?

Arsenal continually caused chaos in the first half and Mikel Arteta's side led 3-0 at the break as a brace from Gabriel Martinelli was followed by a Bukayo Saka strike.

Leeds improved after the break and Joe Gelhardt earned the Whites a 75th-minute penalty after being fouled by Ben White, Raphinha blasting home the spot kick into the top right corner.

But Arsenal bagged a fourth goal with six minutes left when Martin Odegaard played in substitute Emile Smith Rowe who volleyed home past Illan Meslier.

Graham Smyth, the YEP's chief football writer, hands out the scores.

But Arsenal bagged a fourth goal with six minutes left when Martin Odegaard played in substitute Emile Smith Rowe who volleyed home past Illan Meslier.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.