No Wins from Three as Lacklustre Leeds draw 1-1 with Baggies
Luke Ayling’s header saved Leeds from consecutive defeats, earning a 1-1 draw against West Brom to earn United their second draw of the season.
Daniel Farke made two changes from the side that suffered defeat against a rejuvenated Birmingham City after the arrival of Tom Brady, who became a minority owner at the Blues.
Joe Rodon replaced young Charlie Cresswell in defence, Rodon making his debut for Leeds after joining on loan from Tottenham.
Ian Poveda was also replaced from the defeat, with Georgino Rutter starting up front for The Whites.
Leeds’ first home game of the season was a 2-2 draw against Cardiff, so United were still looking for their first victory on home turf this season.
Carlos Corberan meanwhile made just one change from the side that was victorious 3-2 against Swansea.
The gaffer continued to operate his 3-4-3 formation starting striker Thomas-Asante instead of left back Conor Townsend, pushing Matt Phillips to the left side.
First Half
The first half started with the home side looking most threatening with Elland Road roaring them on from the stands.
Byram saw an effort go wide before Ampadu also saw his effort sail off target as Leeds attacked intent on getting the opening goal.
Leeds went closest in the first half through Jamie Shackleton, operating on the right for an attacking trio that out of possession sat on the right of a midfield four.
Shackleton received the ball about 20 yards out. The midfielder leathered a fierce effort towards goal. The shot took a deflection and ended up striking the post, with Elland Road almost rising to their feet.
The Baggies were very much against it in the first half, needing a sharp response in the second as otherwise it seemed a matter of time before Leeds would take a deserved lead.
Second Half
Corberan must have reiterated similar words at half time. Out came a fired up Baggies side in the second half who almost took a lead straight after the restart.
Thomas-Asante played a beautiful cross into Jed Wallace, the ex Millwall forward poking an acute effort. Meslier did outstandingly well to parry on the post and out for a corner.
However the resulting corner saw West Brom take the lead.
Swift delivered a low ball into the area which landed at the feet of Molumby. The midfielder volleyed the ball onto Thomas Asante, going into the back of the net sending the travelling Albion fans into jubilation.
Replays show the ball struck Thomas Asante’s arm however the striker won’t care as his side were 1-0 up.
Despite conceding, going a goal down re-lit Leeds’ fire and sent the home side on the attack.
However Leeds could not find the back of the net, with James curling his effort wide.
James would get a second opportunity to curl a strike towards goal, this time on target, however Palmer did outstandingly well to get a hand on the brilliant strike.
Eventually Palmer’s resistance would be broken as Leeds would get a deserved equaliser.
Once again it was James, this time launching a cross into the box. Erik Pieters was caught flat footed which allowed Luke Ayling to head home to level up.
Entering the final 10 minutes, the Whites made their first change of the match. Returning from injury, Sam Greenwood was brought into the game in place of Gelhardt.
The final chance indeed fell to the home side. Georginio Rutter burst forward with the ball and shot from 20-yards, firing just past the post.
That would be the last chance of the game, with the score ending: Leeds 1-1 West Brom.
Perspective of the Dugout.
Leeds Manager Daniel Farke was open about the challenges he’s facing at Elland Road, stating the below after the game:
However, the ex Norwich manager was pleased with what he saw from his team.
“I only have compliments for the lads. I like this attitude, the lads never know when they are beaten. I’m pretty pleased with our performance. It would normally be enough for three points, but I’m pleased with our spirit and the comeback attitude.”
From the West Brom dugout, Corberan was fairly critical of his side’s performance and mistakes in the Friday Night clash.
The former Leeds United Coach was much happier with the second half performance however.
The second half we started better, we had advantages, we used well the first minutes and scored quickly. After the goal we were defending more, it’s easy to understand here because you want to defend what you have.”
What’s your thoughts and opinions on Leeds start to the season. Do you think their form will improve after the Transfer Window closes?
Let us know your thoughts by reaching out to us on X (formerly known as Twitter) using the handles @Tommy__MFC and @DubSportss
