Leeds Extends Unbeaten Run with Commanding Performance
Leeds United continued their relentless push for Premier League promotion with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Yorkshire rivals Rotherham United at Elland Road. The win marks Leeds’ sixth consecutive Championship triumph, maintaining their unbeaten streak in 2024 while leaving bottom-placed Rotherham searching for their first victory since December.
Controversial Opener Sets the Tone
The match began with controversy as Patrick Bamford opened the scoring in the first half. Junior Firpo’s cross took a deflection off Rotherham captain Sean Morrison before appearing to brush Bamford’s arm on its way into the net. While Rotherham players protested vehemently, referee Andrew Madley allowed the goal to stand, much to the dismay of visiting manager Leam Richardson.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg, analyzing the incident for Jw7, noted: “In real time, these decisions are incredibly difficult. The deflection changes the ball’s trajectory, making any potential handball harder to spot. VAR would likely have reviewed this in the Premier League.”
Summerville Shines as Leeds Show Class
Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville emerged as the standout performer, netting twice in the second half to seal the victory. His first came from a slick one-two with Georginio Rutter in the 52nd minute, while his second arrived from the penalty spot after being fouled by Peter Kioso.
Leeds’ dominance was reflected in the statistics:
- 68% possession
- 25 shots (8 on target)
- 12 corners to Rotherham‘s 2
Tactical Breakdown: Why Leeds Prevailed
Daniel Farke’s decision to make six changes from their midweek FA Cup victory over Plymouth proved inspired. The German tactician deployed:
Attacking Fluidity
- Rutter as false nine with Bamford as target man
- Summerville and Gnonto providing width
- Kamara and Ampadu controlling midfield tempo
Defensive Solidity
- Firpo and Gray overlapping effectively
- Rodon marshaling the backline
- Meslier commanding his area
Rotherham, meanwhile, struggled to cope with Leeds’ intensity. Their 5-4-1 defensive shape was frequently breached, particularly down the flanks where Summerville and Gnonto ran riot.
Manager Reactions: Contrasting Perspectives
Daniel Farke (Leeds United)
“Whether it was handball or not, the result would have been the same. We created enough chances to win comfortably. Rotherham fought hard, but our quality told in the end.”
Leam Richardson (Rotherham United)
“The first goal decision affected the game’s momentum. While I respect officials have tough jobs, I was disappointed by the linesman’s unprofessional behavior after the match. That said, Leeds’ quality was evident – they’re promotion contenders for good reason.”
What This Means for the Promotion Race
With this victory, Leeds:
- Maintain pressure on top two Leicester and Ipswich
- Extend gap over playoff chasing pack
- Build crucial momentum ahead of tougher fixtures
For Rotherham, the defeat:
- Leaves them 12 points from safety
- Highlights defensive vulnerabilities
- Increases urgency for January reinforcements
Jw7 Player Ratings
Leeds United
- Meslier: 7/10 – Solid when called upon
- Firpo: 8/10 – Constant attacking threat
- Ampadu: 8.5/10 – Midfield metronome
- Summerville: 9/10 – Two goals, constant menace
- Bamford: 7.5/10 – Controversial goal, good hold-up play
Rotherham United
- Johansson: 8/10 – Made several good saves
- Morrison: 5/10 – Struggled against Leeds’ movement
- Tiehi: 6/10 – Showed occasional promise
Looking Ahead: Promotion Push Continues
As Leeds prepare for their next Championship fixture, Jw7 analysts suggest this performance demonstrates why they’re genuine automatic promotion contenders. The blend of youth (Gray, Summerville) and experience (Bamford, Cooper) makes them formidable opponents.
For Rotherham, survival remains the priority. Their next matches against fellow strugglers become must-win encounters if they’re to pull off a great escape.
What did you think of Leeds’ performance? Can they secure automatic promotion? Share your thoughts with the Jw7 community below!
