Joel Robles: Made a series of fine saves to keep Sunderland at bay, particularly in the second half as the Black Cats pushed for an equaliser. A good performance from the experienced Spaniard. 7
James Debayo: Comfortable in possession but he was challenged by the attacking prowess of Sunderland’s left side. Booked for a silly challenge in the first half. 6
Connor Ferguson: Forced off with an injury in the first half to be replaced by Diogo Monteiro. 6
Read more: Leeds United U21s 3-1 Sunderland U21 highlights as Whites move clear at the top of the table
Jeremiah Mullen: Arguably the best in Leeds’ backline. Showed patience and precision with the ball at his feet and was forced into one or two fine challenges to save the Whites. 7
Kris Moore: Spent most of the game on the left following Ferguson’s injury, but he looked at home in the position, handled most things defensively and got forward at times, too. 7
Archie Gray: Produced some silky moments in the middle of the park. Combined well with Darko Gyabi and more than looked the part after starting for the first time since September. 7
Charlie Allen: Created Leeds' first with a fine attack down the right and claimed another assist late on as Joseph turned his cross home. A thorn in Sunderland’s side for most of the contest. 8
Darko Gyabi: Typically classy in the middle. He made Leeds tick with his footwork and contribution proving difficult to deal with. 8
Mateo Joseph: Marked his first call-up for England U20s by bagging two goals and making the difference against the Black Cats. 8
Sonny Perkins: Took his goal well, sweeping home Gyabi’s cutback with precision to score for the second game running. Got through plenty of work and attempted to make things happen in attacking areas. 7
Joe Snowdon: Popped up regularly on the left wing in the first half before moving to right-back in the second. Turned in a big effort. 7
Diogo Monteiro (Ferguson 26): Shaky at times defensively, but had a two or three good moments as well. 7
Sean McGurk (Gray 65): Looked lively at times and put Sunderland on the back foot with his talent on the ball. 7
Charlie Crew (Debayo 65): Slotted into the midfield well in the second half. 7
Morten Spencer (Perkins 79): Made sure of the win by shoring things up in the middle. N/A
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