Leeds United moved to the brink of Premier League survival with a 3-1 victory over already relegated Burnley, opening a nine-point gap over the drop zone with just three matches remaining.
Burnley were looking to restore some pride after their relegation had already been confirmed, but their evening started poorly. Leeds went ahead early when Anton Stach’s long-range effort somehow beat Martin Dubravka at his near post.
Stach was involved again soon after, setting up Ao Tanaka, who fired over the bar, before Jaidon Anthony missed another chance to punish Burnley after a defensive slip inside the area.
The Clarets gradually settled, but they offered almost nothing in attack during a flat first half. They failed to register a shot on target before the break and rarely looked capable of troubling Karl Darlow.
Leeds then took control after the restart. A flowing move ended with Jayden Bogle delivering a fine cross for Noah Okafor, who guided his finish across goal and into the corner.
The third goal followed soon after, as Tanaka’s powerful strike from distance was spilt into the path of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who forced the ball over the line from close range.
Burnley had a goal ruled out through Lucas Pires before Loum Tchaouna eventually pulled one back with a strong finish inside the area.
It was only a consolation. Leeds saw out the win comfortably and now look all but safe, while Burnley’s difficult return to the Premier League continues to end in disappointment.
