Leeds defeated Middlesbrough 3-1, their eighth straight home victory of the season, solidifying their place at the top of the Championship.
Even though the Whites had already suffered a 3-0 home loss against the Smoggies this season in August, Farke’s team didn’t appear nervous on the field. They were far more inventive than their North Yorkshire rivals, and they made excellent use of their wide players to keep the visitors confined to their own half for the majority of the match.
Leeds’ opening goal at 14 minutes had a dash of luck. James and Byram joined forces further down the right channel. Panic struck when James smashed the ball hard and low across the six-yard box, and Dieng’s effort at a clearance bounced off Gnonto and into the net. Late in the first half, he had a chance to double his score, but the Senegalese international made apologies with a deft save to his right.
When Max Wober unintentionally turned the ball into his own net after a well-executed Boro corner on minute 54, the game’s dynamics changed. Leeds persevered in spite of this sway, and 20 minutes later James’ spectacular goal—his fourth of the year—retook the lead. To get the ball over Dieng and into the corner, the Welsh international displayed excellent elegance and control.
As the visitors searched in vain for an equalizer, Aaronson’s third goal in stoppage time put the icing on the cake. Leeds put themselves three points clear of third place after defeating one of the Championship’s best teams, and they deserved it. Since Burnley and Sunderland are now drawing, the Whites may be able to escape the chasing group in the new year provided they can improve their away performance.
Managers’ divergent opinions following Leeds’ victory
Both managers expressed differing opinions on the game in their post-match interviews, with Daniel Farke complimenting his team on a well-earned win and Michael Carrick lamenting that his team did not turn the tide of the play after equalizing. In actuality, even though a 3-1 scoreline could slightly flatter them, they were worth the victory.
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