Leeds United have surged back to the top of the Championship after edging a tense 1-0 win at Middlesbrough – a result that halted a concerning run of draws and reignited their promotion charge.
Dan James struck after just 96 seconds, latching onto a precise cross from Manor Solomon to put the visitors ahead. It proved to be the only goal of a gripping encounter where both sides had periods of dominance, but Leeds clung on to a crucial clean sheet to earn their first away win in nearly seven weeks.
Momentum Shift at the Right Time
Coming into this fixture, questions were mounting over whether Leeds were repeating last season’s stumble, where they limped to the finish line and missed out on automatic promotion. Three consecutive draws and just seven points from six had seen Burnley and Sheffield United leapfrog them. But with both rivals dropping points on the same night, Leeds seized their chance in Teesside.
Farke’s side looked sharp early on. James tested Mark Travers twice more before half-time, while Ao Tanaka had a goal ruled out for offside that replays suggested should have stood. It mirrored an earlier disallowed effort for Boro’s Tommy Conway, but Leeds had greater reason to feel aggrieved.
Middlesbrough came into the match in strong form, with five wins from their previous seven. They responded after the break, but despite their best efforts, including late chances for Delano Burgzorg and a strong stop from Karl Darlow, they couldn’t breach the Leeds back line.
Bamford, introduced in the second half, thought he had wrapped up the points against his former club, but yet another tight offside call denied him his first goal of the season.
“I’m proud of my boys. It was a tough game, overall an excellent advert for the Championship. We had to dig in and show steel and togetherness and spirit to bring this over the line in a hard-fought game and a well-deserved win.” – Daniel Farke
Leeds now top the Championship, edging ahead of Burnley on goal difference. Sheffield United are two points adrift, and with only a handful of games left, every point counts. Farke’s side showed defensive resilience and regained their edge in front of goal – even if the margin of victory should have been greater.
For Boro, the result was a blow. They slip to sixth place and will now nervously look over their shoulder at Coventry City, just a point behind with a game in hand. With promotion still a possibility, Carrick will demand more ruthlessness in front of goal.
Site Opinion
Leeds needed to show character and they did. After recent setbacks, this gritty win might be the turning point in their promotion fight. James’ influence continues to grow, while the return to defensive solidity is timely. VAR might have ruled in their favour on another day, but despite the frustration, the performance and points will lift confidence in the Elland Road camp. If they can build on this, Leeds might just go up the easy way this time.
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