AliousNot for the first time this season, Leeds United fans are fuming at Illan Meslier.
The Frenchman was arguably at fault for two goals in the 3-3 draw against Hull City on Saturday afternoon.
Leeds United’s frustrations rumble on after back-to-back draws in the Championship, as Daniel Farke’s side watch a previous five-point lead at the top of the table turn into a one-pint lead, after Burnley and Sheffield United both won on Saturday.
The Whites were a goal behind at half-time but were 2-1 in front shortly after the break, then 3-1 in front with goals from Ao Tanaka, Dan James, and Joel Piroe. But Hull were allowed to get back in the game, which eventually finished 3-3. Once again, Illan Meslier was the subject of debate.
Leeds United fans are fuming at Meslier after the draw. He came off his line much too fast for Hull’s first and then made a huge blunder for the second, pushing the ball into the path of Joao Pedro despite the ball looking like it was going over the bar.
Pundits don’t hold back on Illan Meslier criticism after Leeds United draw vs Hull City
Speaking in the LUTV studio after the game, pundits and former Leeds duo Michael Bridges and Dominic Matteo weren’t shy in questioning Meslier’s performance at the MKM Stadium.
Matteo said of the 24-year-old: “He’s got to deal with it… He doesn’t have to punch it. But again, it’s not dealing with stuff.
Deal with it. He’s an experienced goalkeeper now. That is a poor goal. It really is, and it gives them the hope to try and get back in it.”
Bridges then weighed in. And he spotted how the Leeds players, particularly Joe Rodon, reacted after Meslier’s blunder for Hull’s second goal of the game.Bridges said: “Joe Rodon’s response there… was the feeling that everybody that’s a Leeds United fan and player felt, because he just literally said, ‘What are you doing?’”Illan Meslier to blame for the second, but maybe not for the first
Hull’s first goal was arguably just as bad as the second from a Leeds perspective.
Abu Kamara found himself in acres of space, right in the heart of the Leeds defence, although Meslier did appear to come off his line too hastily before being lobbed.Speaking on commentary during the game though, Tony Dorigo says Max Wober was at fault for Hull’s opening goal.
He said: “The ball was a good one as well, wasn’t it. But, when you have that much space, you really should be closing them down, not allowing the pass.
“But then, just pick up your man instead. Max Wober, not exactly sure where he was, but Kamara has his chance and he takes it well.”Whilst Meslier had a bit of a stinker against Hull, it is a team effort.
Leeds, particularly as a defensive unit, were off the mark against Hull. Perhaps they were missing Pascal Struijk who missed out with an ankle injury.Pundits don’t hold back on Illan Meslier criticism after Leeds United draw vs Hull City
Alious
