Former Bristol City defender Luke Ayling came back to haunt us at the weekend as he scored the only goal of the game at Elland Road, as Leeds United ran out 1-0 winners, writes Will Collins.

This was always going to be a tough fixture for us on a ground we’ve had no luck at in recent years. Although just three points above us before kick off, it has to be said that Leeds have looked a really good side for most of the season whereas we’ve laboured somewhat to a position where we can challenge for promotion.

Leeds’ famous “high-press” strategy under coach Bielsa has always seemed to cause his opposite number Lee Johnson problems and Saturday demonstrated Johnson still hasn’t found a way of matching up against Bielsa’s team. The first half was an avalanche of Leeds pressure and in truth we were fortunate they only had Ayling’s 16th minute strike to show for it. One criticism of Bielsa’s side is that it lacks natural finishers and that showed on Saturday.

The second half started in a similar vein and only Bentley in the City goal saved Leeds from doubling their advantage with a string of fine saves. He has been outstanding so far this season.

City did eventually enjoy some possession in the final 20 minutes as the home crowd grew nervous. Wells had City’s best chance when he burst through on goal and sent his shot inches over the crossbar. City also had a very good shout for a penalty turned down, however in truth it would have been more than we deserved.

Things won’t get any easier this weekend as league leaders West Bromwich Albion are the visitors to Ashton Gate on Saturday (3pm). City then face a tricky trip to Huddersfield Town next Tuesday (7.45pm). The Baggies are the division’s leading scorers and Huddersfield are in a relegation battle and fighting for their lives.