Leeds United missed a big chance to go 10 points clear of the play-offs after being held to a 1-1 draw by West Bromwich Albion.
The Whites got off to a strong start, but the visitors proved tough to break down, leaving Daniel Farke’s side frustrated at full-time.
Junior Firpo Opens the Scoring
Leeds started the game well, with Junior Firpo heading home in the first 10 minutes from a Daniel James cross. The home crowd erupted as Firpo celebrated yet another crucial goal for the team.
West Brom, however, stayed dangerous throughout the game. Before half-time, Pascal Struijk gave away a free-kick just outside the area. The delivery into the box was nodded in by Darnell Furlong, bringing the visitors level.
Despite pushing hard in the second half, Leeds couldn’t find a way through West Brom’s solid defence, meaning both teams shared the points.
Player Ratings
Illan Meslier – 7
Meslier made a good save from Adam Armstrong in the first half and punched away a dangerous corner soon after. He looked a little unsure when deciding whether to come off his line but had no chance to stop West Brom’s goal.
Jayden Bogle – 8
Bogle was a threat down the right side and handled the tricky Mikey Johnston well at times. However, he did leave too much space for the winger in some moments. He was caught in a tough spot for West Brom’s equaliser but put in a solid performance.
Pascal Struijk – 7
Started well with a crunching tackle on Isaac Price but gave away the free-kick that led to the equaliser. Looked a bit slow at times but managed to stop a dangerous cross in the second half.
Joe Rodon – 9
Rodon was confident on the ball, heading clear when needed and keeping his teammates in check. He was vocal in organising the defence and made a crucial block in stoppage time to stop a West Brom counter-attack.
Junior Firpo – 8
Another brilliant header to score the opener, just like in the last game. He pushed high up the pitch and linked well with the midfield but did leave some gaps in defence.
Ao Tanaka – 7
Got a talking-to from Farke early in the game for a slow start. Kept the ball well and managed a few shots, though none really troubled the keeper.
Joe Rothwell – 7
Reliable in possession, especially when Leeds needed to slow the game down. Did well moving the ball backwards but didn’t do much to progress play forward.
Daniel James – 8
Switched wings and provided the assist for Firpo’s goal. Always looked to make things happen, getting a few shots off but without success.
Brenden Aaronson – 7
Worked hard and got more involved in the second half. Looked slightly tired after a long run of games but still contributed well in attack.
Manor Solomon – 7
Had some neat touches and linked play well but took a little too long on the ball at times. Got some shots away, but most were blocked.
Joel Piroe – 7
Dropped deeper at times to help build play. His link-up work was good, but he couldn’t find space for a clear shot on goal.
Substitutes
Mateo Joseph (On 72 mins for Aaronson) – 8
Made a big impact off the bench and was unlucky not to score when his shot clipped the bar. Brought energy and looked sharp.
Wilfried Gnonto (On 79 mins for Solomon) – 6
Struggled to get involved and had an awkward moment where he tripped over the ball. Couldn’t make a big difference in the late stages.
Final Thoughts
Leeds United will be frustrated with this result, knowing a win would have put them in a much stronger position in the race for promotion. The early goal from Firpo gave hope, but West Brom’s resilience made it tough for Leeds to grab all three points.
Daniel Farke’s men will now look to bounce back in their next game as they continue their push for automatic promotion to the Premier League.
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