Leeds United claimed their first points of the Premier League season on Saturday as they saw off Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 at Elland Road. Rodrigo got Leeds’ first goal, cancelling out a Daniel Podence effort which came within the first six minutes of the contest, and an own goal from the unfortunate Rayan Ait-Nouri was enough to secure the points on the opening day.
Jesse Marsch handed out debuts to four new signings, with Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams, Marc Roca and Rasmus Kristensen all starting the game and making an impact to help secure the win. Here’s how they got on.
Brenden Aaronson
The best player in a white shirt, of that there is no doubt. The winger’s energy and tenacity throughout the contest was notable, rushing defenders and looking to lead Leeds’ press high up the field.
Read more: Every word Jesse Marsch said on Bruno Lage disagreement, Klich and Leeds United's Wolves win
He played a key role in the lead up to Rodrigo’s goal, stealing the ball in Wolves’ penalty area before moving it on to Jack Harrison, who in turn provided the opportunity for Rodrigo to squeeze the ball home at Jose Sa’s near post. He managed to carry his dogged determination and energy into the second half, winning the ball back on several occasions and attempting to start counter attacks.
After missing a fine opportunity to score in the first half, Aaronson appeared to be the man that scored what would be the winner, directing Patrick Bamford’s cross towards goal before wheeling off to celebrate in front of a raucous Elland Road crowd. However, the goal was eventually recorded as an own goal by Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Aaronson can credit himself to be man that forced the mistake from the defender, though. It’s a shame because that would have been the goal his performance deserved. He was taken off in the 84th minute for Crysencio Summerville.
Marc Roca
After helping Leeds weather Wolves' strong start to the contest, Roca got himself on the ball and started to pull the strings for the Whites in the middle of the park. Picking passes at will, the midfielder constantly looked to move Leeds up the field and found plenty of joy in doing so, too.
However, his influence on the game waned towards the end of the first half and he visibly tired due to the intensity of the contest. He struggled to get in the game after the interval, though, looking weary at times as his opposite number Ruben Neves took control.
Roca found himself chasing shadows as the second half wore on and he was taken off shortly after the hour mark, to be replaced by Sam Greenwood.
Rasmus Kristensen
Kristensen won’t be happy with the first contribution he made on his competitive debut as he was shrugged off the ball by Pedro Neto on the right flank and he could only watch on as the subsequent cross was eventually turned home by Podence. However, he recovered well and looked a threat going forward down the side.
The Dane didn’t advance as much as he did during Leeds’ pre-season games, but showed plenty of discipline with his defensive duties and was rarely caught off guard when Wolves moved the ball into the final third. He was strong in possession and combined well with Aaronson down the wing.
He’ll be disappointed by the goal Leeds conceded in the opening few minutes, but in truth, he had a good game. One that he can certainly build on.
Tyler Adams
A dogged performance in the middle as he pushed, hurried and made Wolves work for everything they got. He provided a good buffer in front of the defence and produced a number of impressive tackles.
His partnership with Roca showed promising signs but will certainly get better with time and while he wasn’t always neat and tidy on the ball, he definitely did his job in the middle of the park.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United confirm 2022-23 squad numbers including Raphinha's successor in number 10 shirt
Leeds United’s bench divides opinion as supporters react to line-up for Wolves opener
Leeds United hit back at claims Radrizzani's not investing, Orta can't scout and there's no ambition
Leeds United could have their left-back transfer answer by full-time vs Wolves
Rodrigo praises Leeds United summer activity as he outlines targets for new season
