Leeds United climbed back to the summit of the Championship table after a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory away at Middlesbrough, thanks to a lightning start from Dan James.
James struck inside the first two minutes, converting from close range after fine work by Manor Solomon. The Welshman’s 12th goal of the season gave Leeds an ideal platform, and despite some nervy moments, Daniel Farke’s side held firm.
Top Spot Secured – But Only Just
With Burnley held and Sheffield United suffering defeat, the three points at the Riverside were enough to see Leeds leapfrog both clubs and reclaim top spot on goal difference. The Blades now trail by two points as the race for automatic promotion intensifies.
The visitors dominated early, with James causing constant problems for the Boro defence. He forced Mark Travers into action twice more before the break, while Joel Piroe also went close after half-time. Leeds did have the ball in the net twice more, but on both occasions the flag denied them — replays later suggested at least one was an incorrect decision.
Boro grew into the game and were unfortunate not to level. Kelechi Iheanacho squandered their best first-half opportunity, blazing over, while in a late second-half spell Finn Azaz and Delano Burgzorg both missed the target before Karl Darlow made a smart save from Burgzorg.
Substitute Patrick Bamford thought he had sealed the win late on from a Willy Gnonto assist, only to be ruled marginally offside. That left Leeds hanging on, but they did so successfully to record a first away win since February.
“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,” said Leeds boss Daniel Farke.
For Middlesbrough, the defeat was a setback in their play-off push, dropping them to sixth — just a point ahead of Coventry, who have a game in hand. Despite improved form recently, Michael Carrick’s side could not find a breakthrough on home soil.
Writer’s View
Leeds delivered the kind of gritty performance that title contenders must produce when form stutters. Daniel Farke will be delighted to see his side finally take advantage of rivals’ slips. While questions remain over disallowed goals, the clean sheet and result could be pivotal in the final run-in. The ghosts of last season may linger, but this Leeds side looks better equipped to banish them for good.
