Leeds United and Aston Villa contested a fractious and fragmented affair at Elland Road on Sunday afternoon as the Whites played out a stalemate in front of a testy crowd.
The Whites had waited 29 days for a return to action and were treated to an ugly contest between the two mid-table sides.
United’s first-half display was punctuated by several fouls awarded by referee Stuart Attwell who blew for no fewer than 18 fouls in the opening 45 minutes.
Goalless at the break, the complexion of the game changed considerably after Attwell decided to show Luis Sinisterra a second yellow card shortly after the restart.
Leeds’ attacking threat dissipated and Villa grew in confidence with their man advantage but failed to make it show.
Here are Graham Smyth’s full-time player ratings, including a verdict on referee Stuart Attwell.
13. Patrick Bamford - 7
Despite not looking sharp for the duration of his cameo he was involved in two big chances, the first he made for himself, the second he laid on for Klich. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
14. Junior Firpo - 7
Did a lot of clearing up. Use of the ball wasn't perfect when he got it but fought hard (Photo by NIGEL RODDIS/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: NIGEL RODDIS
15. Mateusz Klich - 7
A menace from the moment he came on. Lots of energy and pressing, along with fouls and needle. Unlucky not to score. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) Photo: Clive Brunskill
16. Crysencio Summerville - 7
Wanted to get on the ball and get at Villa. Brave in possession, tried to fight to win it back too. (Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe) Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
17. Stuart Attwell - 2
Lost the game, lost track of players on bookings, lost his head and looked like a man trying to find a way out of the red card for Sinisterra. Inconsistent throughout. (Photo by NIGEL RODDIS/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: NIGEL RODDIS