Leeds United defender Luke Ayling had a difficult day as the Whites played out a 2-2 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Javi Gracia’s charges twice had to come from behind to salvage a point at Elland Road.
Alexis Mac Allister put the visitors ahead on 33 minutes after good work from Karou Mitoma.
Patrick Bamford equalised seven minutes later with a superb effort from range via an Adam Webster deflection.
Leeds conceded again just after the hour via a Jack Harrison own goal under pressure from Solly March.
However, the Whites winger made amends with a stunning effort 12 minutes from time.
Ayling found himself struggling against the impressive Mitoma as Brighton regularly went down his side.
The 31-year-old got forward relatively well though, and could’ve got on the scoresheet in the second half.
Kris Boyd commented on Ayling’s second-half effort on Sky Sports News., whilst also noting his defensive struggles.
“Ayling, who has had a tough day defensively, does so well to take a cross down on his chest,” said Boyd (11/3/23, 16:15).
“But then he blazes it over the bar.”
Difficult day for all linked with Leeds
Not an ideal result for Leeds, who slip two places to 19th.
Wins elsewhere for Bournemouth and Everton saw the Whites end the afternoon a point from safety.
And certainly not a good day at the office for Ayling, who was seriously below par on the day.
At the same time, Mitoma is an incredibly difficult opponent to play against, hence links with some top clubs.
And Brighton are having one of their best ever seasons, with a push for Europe still on the cards.
Ayling is a veteran player so he’ll pick himself up as Leeds continue their fight against Premier League relegation.
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