Leeds United triumphed 2-0 away against Cardiff City to get back to winning ways. The end result gives the impression of a drama-free, extremely comfortable afternoon, but that was not the case at all. Against a Cardiff team that played 70 minutes with 10 men, Joel Piroe’s late goal ultimately sealed the three points.

Leeds returns to the play-offs after the victory in a top-of-the-table that is pretty crowded. We examine the discussion that surrounded yesterday’s game here.

Leeds may have questioned why they still had one goal to go. To be sure, there was a tinge of irritation on the away side at their team’s inability to convert their superiority into a more sustainable lead. That lead was never in jeopardy, though, not with Cardiff so devoid of any offensive threat.

“As well as their own team’s abject display, the home fans then had to watch former Swansea City striker Piroe come on and score Leeds’ second with an assured left-footed finish.”

Jon Newsome, BBC Radio Leeds

“Piroe I’m not sure; he played poorly in a few games towards the conclusion of the previous season and a few this season. He finishes well; in fact, I believe he finishes quite well.

Indeed, they had him rated as a ten. Is he a nine though? Is his line leadership adequate? In addition, even though Mateo Joseph didn’t score today, I think he played a respectable game. I believe he had a respectable game tonight and did not play horribly.

“I’m not sure Piroe has the physicality to lead the line in the same way as a nine does. It’s up to you to decide whether to play with a 10 or two strikers. Mateo Joseph and Piroe are two strikers I’d like to see us use. Up there, you can use two strikers to play.

The League Paper

 

I stated that Leeds needed a creative No. 10 to lead the midfield before the transfer window closed. Even if it’s just to increase competition for spots, I still believe it, because the squad has more than enough talent to advance.

“In the last third, they really need to show a little poise and brutality. They consistently control pressure and opportunities, yet it seems like they’re always aiming for the ideal goal. It’s been a while since they scored from outside the area. It has been a month since they scored a set-piece.”

Rob Jones discusses the red card on Sky Sports

Cardiff is experiencing a beautiful day, but storm clouds are still forming for Cardiff City, who will play with just 10 men for most of the match. Heading up towards Gnonto, Junior Firpo hits a fantastic pass down the line.

Gnonto is able to wheel Joel Bagan on the border of the penalty box and drive into it, thus I believe he is a little too close on the player. With a strong tug on his shirt, Bagan is an expert at what he does.

In fairness to Gnonto, he makes an effort to keep upright as he stumbles, and the referee catches him.

Aaronson impresses says Goal.com

“Leeds’ season of atonement continued as midfielder Brenden Aaronson, an American international, contributed a last-minute assist to ensure the team’s victory over Cardiff.

“Aaron’s huge break came in the closing seconds of the match when he assisted Leeds in securing the three points. In the 87th minute, Aaronson threw a flawless through-ball into Joel Piroe’s path, putting his team ahead 1-0 after a goal from Largie Ramazani in the 30th minute. With a 2-0 result, Leeds won the match and Aaronson received the assist from Piroe’s flawless finish.