We take a look at how each player performed individually as the damage is assessed in light of another defeat for Leeds United, this time at the hands of Doncaster Rovers.
After 2-1 defeat game, manager Brian McDermott labelled his side’s first-half performance as ’embarrassing’ and ‘difficult to watch’.
These views prompted him into making some much-needed changes. Leeds proved to be a touch better in the second-half, nevertheless, the damage was already done, both mentally and physically.
We take a look at each player individually and whether they’re helping or hindering Leeds United’s progress.
Jack Butland – 4/10
The Stoke City goalkeeper has found it difficult to endear himself to the Leeds United faithful since his move, largely due to conceding on average 2.4 goals a game. This encounter, however, proved to be one of his worst with poor kicking through-out and should have perhaps done better for the goals.
Sam Byram – 5/10
Started slowly, much like the whole team in the first-half, grew in confidence in the second-half and showed glimpses of the player he was last season.
Jason Pearce – 6/10
The former Portsmouth centre-back was once again the stand-out defender for Leeds United, which in truth wasn’t that difficult, in what was a poor team display.
Tom Lees – 5/10
An okay performance from a player who has underwhelmed for much of the season, not by any stretch a performance to hold his head up for, but definitely not the worst on the pitch.
Danny Pugh – 3/10
A poor performance from a player that is already finding it hard to endear himself to supporters. A poor start, followed by a not much quicker finish.
Rodolph Austin – 2/10
A really poor performance from a player that was once named Leeds United captain, rightfully pulled off at half-time and replaced with Michael Tonge, who proved to be a huge improvement.
Luke Murphy – 4/10
Another one that was brought off at half-time for being decidedly average. I don’t think he was quite as bad as his midfield partner, but at the same time, he was still disappointing.
Cameron Stewart – 7/10
Perhaps his best performance in a Leeds United shirt to date, unfortunately for him, it was a day where the majority of his teammates decided not to show up. Nevertheless, still a small positive from a poor display.
Alex Mowatt – 5/10
Another slow starter that improved as the game grew on. I thought his impact was never that threatening and in truth, his contribution to the team was minor in the grand scheme of things.
Matt Smith – 7/10
He made the assist for the goal, he worked hard and battled well with a burly Doncaster defence. The service towards him could have been far more creative and better thought-out but generally did well with what he was given.
Ross McCormack – 8/10 – MOTM
If there is one man in the Leeds United side that gives the fans any reason to remain positive, it is their captain. Another hard-working display that produced another goal for him. 27 league goals for the season, it makes you wonder where Leeds would be without him.
Substitutes:
Aidy White – 7/10 – Breath of fresh air, good performance.
Michael Tonge – 6/10 – Made things simple and allowed Leeds to build their attacks up better.
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