Leeds United edged closer to survival in the Premier League with a 3-1 win over relegated Burnley on Friday. It sent Daniel Farke’s men nine points clear of danger with only four games left.
Anton Stach made it 1-0 with a shot that whistled past Martin Dubravka after Burnley failed to close down their opponent and it was only right that Leeds had dominated the first half. They pressured Burnley aggressively and dominated the play for large parts, though had to wait until the second half to double their advantage.
Noah Okafor made it two, scoring his sixth league goal in seven games after a neat passing move initiated by Dominic Calvert-Lewin backheeling the ball to Jayden Bogle. A few minutes later, Calvert-Lewin then got his 13th of the season to put Leeds three up after his quick reactions in front of goal saw him tap the ball home after a rebound from Ao Tanaka’s shot.
Loum Tchaouna pulled one back in the final stages for Burnley but the game was over long before that.
Leeds now sit 14th and have enjoyed a fantastic first season back in the top flight of the Premier League. Along with Sunderland, they have bucked the trend of newly-promoted sides finding survival a challenge. The win put them back on the map after their disappointed in the semi-finals of the FA Cup to Chelsea last Saturday at Wembley.
Burnley, who only last season just missed out on the Championship title to Leeds, have had a torrid time in the Premier League this season. Their relegation means it is the third season in three years that Burnley have dropped down a division in the Premier League. The club released Scott Parker the day before the match due to his poor form and lack of consistency although he has a strong record in promotions. Interim boss Mike Jackson could not spark a turnaround in the Clarets performance.
The 3-1 win not only provided three points, but also gaveLeeds a substantial margin above the drop zone with nine points between them and 18th placed QPR. They look set to survive now with the run of form they are in, while Burnley can now only look to next season.
