Leeds United were behind due to Illan Meslier’s own goal in a challenging match for the French goalkeeper. Chris Wilder’s team had a nearly flawless first half.
However, in the second half, Junior Firpo equalized for Leeds with a strong header. Ao Tanaka and Joel Piroe then scored within two minutes of each other to secure a victory for Leeds and undo Sheffield United. The final score was Sheffield United 1-3 Leeds United, and this late comeback puts Leeds five points ahead of their rivals.
The beginning of the match was tough for Leeds, especially for Meslier. He struggled to deal with a corner from Sydie Peck and had to rely on Ilia Gruev to clear the ball off the line. Meslier also had some shaky moments dealing with crosses into the penalty area and was not confident with the ball at his feet. His mistake led to Sheffield United’s first goal, as he spilled a rebound from a shot by Callum O’Hare onto the net. Junior Firpo saved Leeds from more trouble by intercepting a dangerous cross intended for O’Hare. However, Sheffield United still posed a threat, with Michael Cooper making a save from a header by Gruev and Dan James wasting shooting opportunities.
Manor Solomon was causing problems for the Sheffield United defence on the left side. Leeds had a penalty appeal denied when James tangled with Jack Robinson, and Firpo missed a chance from a cross by Ao Tanaka. Another penalty appeal was dismissed when Jayden Bogle’s cross hit Harrison Burrows’ arm, and Mateo Joseph missed a shot after Sheffield United failed to clear a corner.
However, Leeds did not have to wait long to equalize, as Firpo scored a powerful header from James’ cross. Meslier made a good save from a shot by Burrows as Sheffield United tried to regain the lead. Cooper also had to make a save from a curling effort by Joel Piroe and a more powerful shot by the Dutchman. But Leeds’ pressure proved too much for Sheffield United to handle. Firpo flicked a corner from Joe Rothwell, and Tanaka was left unmarked at the back post to head the ball into the net and put Leeds ahead. Manager Daniel Farke, who was watching from the gantry, saw his team secure the victory in style as Piroe scored an incredible shot from 18 yards out, sending the Leeds fans into a frenzy.
This victory puts Leeds in a strong position at the top of the Championship, following their late comeback last week against Sunderland.
