Leeds United surpassed Leicester City to take first place ahead of the international break this week, defeating Millwall 2-0 at Elland Road, prompting a tremendous celebration from Daniel Farke.
The Whites have been in genuinely wonderful form since the turn of the new year, putting back-to-back losses behind them and not tasting defeat since in 13 games.
Daniel Farke’s side has surrendered just two points in that time and conceded only three goals, none of which came from open play.
Leeds 2-0 Millwall: Whites go into top spot
Millwall attempted to halt Leeds’ push for automatic promotion, but Neil Harris’ team offered little opposition in a mostly straightforward victory for the hosts.
Willy Gnonto opened the scoring in a commanding first half performance that could have been even better if a stonewall penalty against Jake Cooper had been called – which could have also resulted in his dismissal for a second yellow card.
After the break, the Lions only looked dangerous through set plays and glimpses from Michael Obafemi, but any hopes of salvaging an undeserved point were dashed when Georginio Rutter cut back to Dan James, who tucked through bodies for 2-0.
Such a goal sent Leeds to the top of the league on goal difference, one goal ahead of Leicester and even on 82 points, with Ipswich Town close behind on 81 following their 6-0 demolition of Sheffield Wednesday.
Daniel Farke’s celebration reveals a lot about Leeds’ result.
Farke has made it obvious for some time that he isn’t looking at the table right now, instead focusing on how Leeds are playing in each game.
Given the quality of the other teams in the promotion battle, it’s simply a matter of Leeds doing what they can and seeing if it’s up to the requisite standard come May.
However, there’s no denying that Farke was overjoyed to see that second goal go in, which officially puts the Whites ahead for at least the next week or two, as the cameras shifted to him in the dugout, as posted by @motforum.
Going to the top is crucial for Farke and Leeds.
Farke may play it down all he wants, but the fact that we have reduced the deficit from 17 points to nil is enormous, especially in less than three months.
Psychologically, closing such a gap might be critical for both Leeds and Leicester, as well as Ipswich in their efforts to keep up with the Foxes.
Pressure is increasing, and one squad appears to be feeling the pinch right now, and it is not Farke’s guys.
