Leicester City fired themselves to the top of the league in a 6-goal thriller against a stubborn Burnley team whose 13 year wait for a win in Leicester continues.
Despite falling behind to (another) Chris Wood goal, Leicester City fought back to win comprehensively against a typically determined Claret and Blue side.
With Chris Wood being given the benefit of the doubt on a possible handball and foul call, the foxes were on the back foot. Castagne then set up Harvey Barnes for a slick finish with both teams applying themselves well with Burnley’s high press vs Leicester quick-slick passing.
In the second half Leicester had the rub of the green when Castagne’s cross was turned into his own net by Pieters which was closely followed by James Justin slotting in his 1st ever Premier League goal.
Jimmy Dunne followed Justin’s example with his first ever goal on his debut to bring the arrears to 3-2. Before Dennis Praet hit a spectacular shot high into the net to put the contest to bed.
Its Leicester’s first back to back Premier League wins since New Year’s Day 2020 and raises hopes of another interesting season, despite initial scepticism from pundits and some fans.
RATINGS – Note: 7/10 = steady performance
Kasper Schmeichel- 6:
Not necessarily at fault for any of the goals but did nothing more than save the shots you’d expect him to save. Struggled on a couple of crosses and hit his trademark shank pass straight into touch on the 47th minute.
Timothy Castagne – 8:
Quickly becoming a fan favourite, marshalling his flank well against a tough and aggressive opponent. Once again the added bonus with the Belgian is adding bite to attack and ensuring Burnley were overwhelmed on both sides. Set up Barnes goal, made the cross that lead to the own goal & dislocated his shoulder. Ouch!
Wilfred Ndidi – 7.5:
His tempo in defence seems to be one of panic but it is merely the leftovers of an all-action midfielder. Rarely did much wrong but was positionally left wanting on some crosses against one of the best set piece teams in the division. Get him back in midfield as soon as we can.
Caglar Soyuncu – 8:
Solid for the most part but having to marshal an inexperienced defence left him exposed. He coped admirably though against Wood and Rodriguez and even added support in midfield confidently.
James Justin – 8:
Arguably not tight enough on Wood for the first goal, although a possible handball and foul could easily have gone his way. Following his Belgian full backs lead by attacking down his flank he was rewarded with his first Premier League goal. Two games in and the full back positions are proving key to Leicester’s success. Although Justin must be stronger in challenges and improve his defending.
Nampalys Mendy – 8:
A perfect example of a player that kept the play ticking all game by filling in key positions and keeping the ball moving in all directions. Brave enough to drop into defence to test how high Burnley would press and sharp in tackles that lead to his booking. Most touches and best passing accuracy. Excellent professional display.
Ayoze Perez – 6.5:
Worked hard in key areas but struggled to have the desired impact on the game. His presence out wide still seems like a square peg in a round hole.
Youri Tielemans – 8:
The Belgian talisman’s engine is starting to purr again. Some delicious passes across the pitch were key in dictating The Foxes tempo and ensuring Burnley’s tight shape was stretched. Now not afraid to go aggressive in challenges either. The pass for the second goal was quite frankly world-class.
Dennis Praet – 9: Leicester City Man of the Match
Yet another Belgian classy display. Praet gave an all action performance with box-to-box coverage making key tackles and offering attacking threat with shots, crosses, dribbles and ultimately a blockbuster strike near the end. Fantastic display.
Harvey Barnes -8.5:
A far more complete attacking display with shots more refined and complete. Gave Bardsley a run for his money with aggression and pace. Rounded off with a goal and an assist. Still missed an opportunity to make a key pass to Perez when excitement got the better of him.
Jamie Vardy – 7.5:
Not afforded a great deal of space by the Burnley defence, Vardy’s job was to draw the attention and give the rest of his team their opportunity. He did it admirably and played a key part in the first goal. But strangely he has 2 goals from his first 2 games with no shots on target from open play.
James Maddison – 6.5:
Struggled to make an impact in his half an hour, but managed more touches than Vardy did all game.
Marc Albrighton – 6.5:
Ten minutes of football and four touches, little influence.
Wes Morgan – 6.5:
Only a few minutes to make any impact.