Leeds United hammered Cardiff City 7-0 on Saturday afternoon to stay top of the Championship table and send a message to their promotion rivals.

Daniel James left the pitch having bagged a goal and two assists, having been one of United's most active attacking threats all afternoon. Joel Piroe enjoyed a fruitful game by sparking attacks from slightly deeper.

He can take credit for creating the opening that led to Brenden Aaronson's opener and Manor Solomon's goal - both of which were set-up by James. He got a deserved goal from the spot midway through the second half.

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Wilfried Gnonto got in on the act with a goal just moments after coming on in the second half before Firpo got another assist for Mateo Joseph's first goal since October. Firpoi got his hat-trick of assists for Piroe's second right at the death.

Here are how the United players rated.

1 - Illan MESLIER

Came off from a standing start well to intercept a through-ball with his feet in the first half. Held onto and pushed away the few shots he faced - whichever option was most sensible. 7

2 - Jayden BOGLE

Had to mind the cross-field ball a number of times. Sometimes dealt with it, on occasion he didn't. Was as diligent and reliable as usual. 7

6 - Joe RODON

Sturdy and wise in his play. His composed mindset and excellent reading of the game makes his play look serene. 8

4 - Ethan AMPADU

Fielded Callum Robinson and other Cardiff attackers amply. Dealing well with whatever is being thrown at him by Championship attackers. 7

3 - Junior FIRPO

Always in control in defence and was productive when moving forward, often times found the space in semi-central areas. Didn't let anyone past All three of his assists were sublime. 10

22 - Ao TANAKA

Played the sensible ball and got his foot in when needed. Some nice turns and passes, as has become customary for the Japan international. 7

8 - Joe ROTHWELL

Nearly every corner he took was dangerous. Kept being positive and productive. Leeds look more rounded with him in the middle. 8

7 - Daniel JAMES

Just two moments of utter composure and precision for his assists for the first two goals. Took the most shots out of any other player in search of a goal himself and came close a few times. Has Firpo to thank for his deserved goal. 9

11 - Brenden AARONSON

Dispatched his goal well being in the right place at the right time for what is a much-needed confidence boost for the American. Remained positive and ran forward with the ball when he could. 8

14 - Manor SOLOMON

Got his toe in before the defender for his goal and had Cardiff defender Andy Rinomhota in circles at times. 7

10 - Joel PIROE

Much more lively and his ball through for the first goal was inch-perfect. Dropped deeper to help spark attacks, which worked a treat. His sliding-in for James during Solomon's goal was almost a carbon copy of the first, just on the other flank. Cool spot kick and well-taken second. 9

SUBS

5 - Pascal STRUIJK (on 78 mins for Tanaka)

Was required to stretch his legs at one stage. Hamstring coped fine. 7

17 - Largie RAMAZANI (on 71 mins for Solomon)

Troubled Cardiff goalkeeper Alnwick with a deflected shot. Should have done better when one-on-one late on but very positive. 7

19 - Mateo JOSEPH (on 71 mins for Aaronson)

Got his first goal since October thanks to Firpo's cross. Got himself involved. 7

25 - Sam BYRAM (on 66 mins for Bogle)

Didn't have much to do. Did what was required. 6

29 - Wilfried GNONTO (on 66 mins for James)

Fired home coolly from the edge of the box, sending teammates and the home fans barmy as is his popularity. Gained confidence and continued to find the gap, forcing another save at one stage. 7