Leeds United 2 Wolves 1 - Graham Smyth's player ratings from fightback including stellar debut
Leeds United began the new Premier League season with a gutsy 2-1 victory at home to Wolves – but how did we rate the performances?
Bruno Lage’s visitors went ahead in the sixth minute as Daniel Podence struck after Pedro Neto had raced away from Rasmus Kristensen down the left flank but United’s continued high press led to Rodrigo equalising in the 24th minute.
Leeds were then subjected to around 20 minutes of continued Wolves pressure after the break but the introduction of Mateusz Klich helped United finally get going and the Pole played a crucial role in the build-up to Brenden Aaronson forcing a Rayan Ait-Nouri own goal with 16 minutes left.
United are now off to a winning start for the first time since their Premier League return and Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a thrilling afternoon at Elland Road.
1. Illan Meslier
8 - Some big saves at important times, could do little with the goal.
Photo: Marc Atkins
2. Rasmus Kristensen
6 - Error for the first goal and some shaky moments defensively. Took a clattering from Sa and kept going. Stuck in there. Vital tackle on Ait-Nouri.
Photo: Marc Atkins
3. Diego Llorente
7 - One awful pass aside, dealt with the ball well in the main. Seemed to grow into the game. Made some important interventions, produced some late magic.
Photo: TREVOR COLLENS
4. Robin Koch
8 - Lots of blocks, headers and clearances. Used physicality well up against a big, strong striker.
Photo: James Worsfold