Leeds United 0 vs Aston Villa 3 – Bamford returns

Leeds have not won a match since January and today simply added to those woes – whole team have been under performing. Bamford returns for this match coming on in the second half but it was too late with Leeds united 0 Aston Villa 3. Defensive frailties were still evident, alongside a look of power in front of goal.

There was a much improved performance against Leicester City with Leeds United making more chances in front of goal. But this set back will give Marsch food for thought. This was Marsch’s first match with Leeds United at home.

Striker Roberts is now njured for the rest of the season with Gelhardt has been promoted to the first team, probably as his replacement. Changes today included Forshaw favoured over Klich, James favoured over Rodrigo as striker with Rodrigo playing on his shoulder and Koch playing in Phillips’ defensive midfield role.

The match started well with a massive roar for Jesse Marsch when he arrived onto the pitch in front of the fans. Leeds played positively with Firpo from defence allowed to go forward into the box.

It was 17 minutes before Leeds had a shot at goal with James passing to Raphinha who almost gets the ball on target. But after that early pressure Aston Villa took the lead.

Leeds defence were caught out with Aston Villa players unmarked and Coutinho able to plant the ball in the net with a deflection off Struijk. Villa continued to make the chance despite Leeds possession.

Meslier very lucky on 29 minutes when he attempts a pass which is intercepted. A little too casual but luckily he kicks the ball clear. Villa pressed high and forced Leeds to kick forward.

More woe in the second half

The second half ended poorly with wasted set pieces by Leeds United – free kicks and corners into the penalty box not working. The first half was also frustrating for Ayling who questioned the referee decisions, Leeds not getting fouls their way.

The first half ended with rarely heard boos from Leeds fans frustrated at Leeds not creating the chances, passes not clicking, and Aston Villa breaking into Leeds defence repeatedly. Leeds not had one target on goal in the first half – Villa goalkeeper picking up the crosses. Aston Villa had four shots on target that really tested Meslier

After an awful first half Leeds United started the second with Gelhardt on and Rodrigo off, with Ayling moved to centre half to get the ball up. First moves have Raphinha on the ball more and Leeds peppering low balls into the penalty box. Leeds play more widely. Altogether the better team for the first quarter of an hour. Dan James kept on running and giving Mings a difficult time.

Roars from the crowd as Bamford comes on for Harrison on the hour. Leeds now playing with three attacking players – Bamford, James and Gelhardt. After all the pressure Leeds are caught on the counter attack with Cash left unmarked and easily scores. Klich came on for Forshaw.

On seventy minutes Leeds go down to three goals. This is depressing for Elland Road as Villa fans out-sing the Leeds fans. Villa took advantage of Leeds loss of confidence and kill off the match. Leeds lose Firpo for an inocuous foul on 85 minutes and play the last ten minutes with ten men. Bamford, for all the fanfare did not get much service and had has his first shot on goal at ninety minutes.

Man of the match: Dan James