A rare set-piece goal from Pascal Struijk and Mateo Joseph’s late strike won the Yorkshire derby and ended the Blades’ unbeaten start. It wasn’t easy, or all that pretty, but Leeds have deservedly won this Yorkshire derby thanks to a set-piece finish from Pascal Struijk and a late Mateo Joseph clincher. Sheffield United’s unbeaten start ends here – they just didn’t have enough to keep their local rivals at bay tonight.
Pascal Struijk slammed home a rare set-piece goal for the Whites - their first since February - after 69 minutes, before Mateo Joseph made sure in the 90th to bring the EFL's final unbeaten start to a conclusion after 10 games.
Prior to kick-off, tributes were paid to former Blade George Baldock, who passed away at the age of just 31 on October 9. Leeds' Ethan Ampadu and Sheffield United's Jack Robinson laid flowers in front of the away end, while a planned minute's silence soon erupted into applause.
Given the manner in which Leeds had drawn with Sunderland prior to the international break - due to Illan Meslier's glaring late error - Sheffield United were prepared for a fast start at Elland Road. But when the midway point of the first half rolled around, the hosts had not mustered a single shot.
Something resembling the expected attacking storm followed shortly after as Leeds took control, with livewire Largie Ramazani quickly digging out a shot while flanked by two Blades defenders that goalkeeper Michael Cooper tipped around the post.
Blades captain Ollie Arblaster was denied the opener by a superb Joe Rodon block after the break - but the visitors found themselves behind shortly afterwards when Struijk pounced. It was just the fourth goal Chris Wilder's side had conceded all season.
It was job done in the 90th minute when Joel Piroe threaded the ball in for fellow forward Joseph, who remained composed as he rolled home to make sure of the victory.
Leeds' Daniel Farke:
“Big compliments to the lads after not the easiest preparation. I think they played excellent today; it was a very mature performance.
“We faced a side that were unbeaten in this league and had kept six clean sheets in a row. The lads executed it [the plan] in a perfect way.”
Sheffield United's Chris Wilder:
“We were beaten by the better side, no doubt about it. We didn't have any answers for them. They are the best team we've played so far this season, no disrespect to any of the other teams we've played.
“It's a disappointing evening for us all, but we didn't deserve anything from the game.”
Leeds United Dominate the First Half
Leeds dominated possession and created numerous chances in the first half, but were unable to find the back of the net. The home side's intensity and pressing game caused problems for Sheffield United, who struggled to get into the game. The Blades' defense remained resilient, holding Leeds at bay until the break.
A Vital Set Piece Goal
The second half began with Sheffield United seemingly more organized and posing a greater threat. However, Leeds were able to break the deadlock in the 69th minute through a set-piece goal. Joe Rothwell, whose corner broke the deadlock, is also worthy of a shout. Rothwell created it with a clever low cross towards Struijk at the near post, who buried the bouncing ball into the roof of the net! This was Leeds’ first set-piece goal in 21 games.
Mateo Joseph Secures the Win
Leeds continued to press for a second goal, and they eventually got it in the 90th minute. Just as a nervous five minutes of stoppage time comes into view, Piroe prods through a perfect through ball and Joseph holds off Peck before poking the ball past Cooper. A clinical counter attack, and a killer goal. That doesn’t really matter any more, because Mateo Joseph has sealed victory for Leeds! Piroe threaded the ball in for fellow forward Joseph, who remained composed as he rolled home to make sure of the victory.
A Dominant Display and a New Era for Leeds
A rare set-piece goal from Pascal Struijk and Mateo Joseph’s late strike won the Yorkshire derby and ended the Blades’ unbeaten start. This victory is a testament to the progress Leeds United have made under Daniel Farke. The team's performance was a clear indication that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Championship. The team’s ability to break down Sheffield United’s resolute defense highlights their growing confidence and tactical awareness. The win sends a strong message to the rest of the league, confirming Leeds' ambitions for promotion to the Premier League. Leeds United FC 2 - 0 Sheffield United FC.
