Aaronson a waste, Ao Tanaka sensational – Leeds ratings as Bristol City thrashed
Leeds United took a vital step towards lifting the Championship title with a comfortable 4-0 win over Bristol City.
Daniel Farke had to wait until the 21st minute for his side to open the scoring, with Ao Tanaka taking full advantage of Bristol City’s slack defending at the back post on Monday, 28 April.
All of the Whites’ dominance paid off early in the second half, with Joel Piroe‘s sensational pass forward finding Wilfried Gnonto, who filled in for Dan James perfectly, and doubled his team’s lead.
Largie Ramazani added a late brace, the first after just one minute on the pitch, and despite concerns about the manager’s ability to manage in the Premier League, Leeds fans made their feelings clear about Farke.
Junior Firpo sends contract reminder in Leeds United victory
Karl Darlow – 6
Very little for the Welshman to do at Elland Road. Kept a clean sheet, which could be vital in winning the Championship title.
Jayden Bogle – 8
Has been one of the signings of the season, and while he could not hit the back of the net, his presence was felt at both ends of the pitch once again.
Joe Rodon – 7
With little to do against the Robins, it is tough to judge the centre-backs. However, whatever duels needed to be won, the former Swansea City man was there.
Ethan Ampadu – 7
Much like his international teammate, Ampadu rarely put a foot wrong, but there was very little for him to prove himself against.
Junior Firpo (Off for Byram 89′) – 9
Fans will continue to wonder why Leeds have still not tied Firpo down to a new contract. Another assist to his name, getting into several attacking areas throughout the night.
Ao Tanaka gets the party started at Elland Road
Ao Tanaka (Off for Guilavogui 85′) – 10 – Man of the Match
Absolutely sensational. Will be a target for many Premier League clubs this summer, but if Leeds want any chance of staying in the Premier League, he must stay at Elland Road.
Ilia Gruev – 6
When being compared to Tanaka, the Bulgarian looked very average in the middle of the park. Having created multiple chances and kept the rhythm smooth, he was just as key.
Wilfried Gnonto (Off for Ramazani 81′) – 7
Has now bagged in back-to-back games for the first time this season. Could have done far more on the right flank, but with Leeds in cruise control, he didn’t need to force anything.
Brenden Aaronon (Off for Joseph 85′) – 3
While the American created multiple chances, his last-ditch decisions were often frustrating, with two of his shots being blazed into the stands. A bit wasteful from the attacking midfielder.
Daniel Farke’s substitutes seal the win against Bristol City
Manor Solomon – 8
Sensational from start to end. Supporters will be eager for the winger to sign permanently this summer, especially given his output over the entire campaign.
Joel Piroe (Off for Bamford 81′) – 8
An outrageous pass from the Dutchman helped set up the second goal from Gnonto. Could not quite get back on the scoresheet following his goalfest against Stoke City.
Substitutes
Largie Ramazani (On for Gnonto 81′) – 9
Instant impact. Scored just seconds after coming onto the pitch, sealing the win. Then he stole the show by scoring a second in the dying seconds.
Patrick Bamford (On for Piroe 81′) – 6
Linked up the play well after coming on. Couldn’t quite get a chance in front of goal, though.
Josuha Guilavogui (On for Tanaka 85′) – N/A
Mateo Joseph (On for Aaronson 85′) – N/A
Sam Byram (On for Firpo 89′) – N/A