How Leeds United rated in their opening day victory over Bolton Wanderers

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In an entertaining opening day win over Bolton Wanderers, Leeds United emerged with a 3-2 win over their newly promoted counterparts.

Two goals from Kalvin Phillips and a Chris Wood header seemed to have made the win safe by half-time despite Gary Madine drawing one back.

Adam Le Fondre’s second half penalty made for a nervous finish at the Macron Stadium but Thomas Christiansen’s side held on for a first victory of the season.

Here are how Leeds United rated…

Felix Wiedwald – 6

Perhaps a surprising choice ahead of Rob Green, he looked a little short of confidence and wasn’t exactly convincing.

Luke Ayling – 7

Crucially helped hold the defence together when injuries struck late on. Looked to get forward when possible and broke up play well.

Matthew Pennington – 8

An impressive debut until his injury. Looked more than comfortable in the Championship and could be a real asset to the squad.

Liam Cooper – 7

Questions may be asked of his marking at times but he was reliable and solid for the rest of the game.

Gaetano Berardi – 6

Bolton seemed to be threatening most on his side of the pitch until a shoulder injury put an end to his afternoon.

Eunan O’Kane – 7

Broke up play well and had some good passes. Looked to dictate the tempo of the game and grew into it as time went on.

Kalvin Phillips – 9

Doubled his career tally of goals in just 37 minutes. Exactly what Leeds were crying out for and by far the stand out performer. 

Kemar Roofe – 8

Provided a great delivery for Chris Wood to score. Few real opportunities to bomb forward but was effective when in possession.

Pablo Hernandez – 8

Harshly denied a goal by the crossbar which would have been the ideal reward for a top display. Creative and threatening throughout.

Gianni Alioski – 6

The conditions didn’t suit his game, but he did what he could and tried to create opportunities with his pace and skill.

Chris Wood – 7

A typical display from the striker. Didn’t have great service and few chances came his way, but when they did he made sure that he made them count with a powerful header.

Subs

Vurnon Anita (for Berardi, 37) – 7

As good as Berardi had been if not better. As the tempo picked up and the game became more open it seemed to suit him and he found his stride. 

Conor Shaughnessy (for Pennington, 63) – 5

To be fair to him, he was out of position and that was clear for all to see. His error conceded a clumsy penalty in a moment which summed up his afternoon. 

Hadi Sacko (for Alioski, 85) – N/A

Didn’t have long but would have been frustrated not to have had more of an impact.