Leeds United on course for English Premier League return, thanks to Pascal Struijk double

LONDON – Leeds United manager Daniel Farke was thrilled with what he called “precious points” as his side took a huge step towards a return to the English Premier League.

Pascal Struijk’s dramatic 95th-minute winner – besides his earlier equaliser – on Feb 17 was key as they defeated Championship promotion rivals Sunderland 2-1 at Elland Road.

The Dutch defender was an unlikely hero as he scored both Leeds goals despite playing only the final 20 minutes as a substitute.

Wilson Isidor netted the game’s opener for the visitors, whose chances of automatic promotion are beginning to fade as Leeds and Sheffield United pull away at the top of the table.

“These type of wins are the best kind you can have in football for the supporters and the whole group. They are priceless points. It’s a great night for everyone connected to Leeds United,” Farke told BBC Radio Leeds.

“We haven’t won anything yet, but to do this against one of the best sides in the league in a difficult game... We were there with almost 70 per cent possession, so it was well deserved. But once they lead, it is so difficult and complicated.

“You have to be patient to create and score when a team is sitting back deep. You have to fight in order to score a goal and this is what we did today.”

Isidor had fired Sunderland in front with his 12th goal of the season, but Struijk began the fightback when he headed in fellow substitute Joe Rothwell’s enticing free kick in the 78th minute.

The same duo combined for the winner as another dangerous cross from Rothwell left the centre-back with an easy finish to head into an unguarded net with the final act of the game.

The winning goal sparked wild scenes of celebration among the capacity 38,000 crowd as one of English football’s sleeping giants edge closer to a return to the top flight.

“These goals you celebrate differently. It’s a big step in the season. We want to keep the distance with the ones that are chasing the same thing as us,” said Struijk.

Leeds move two points ahead of Sheffield United, but crucially seven clear of third-placed Burnley and 10 of Sunderland in fourth with 13 games remaining.

Sunderland coach Regis Le Bris said that the Leeds home crowd played a part.

“In the first half, I thought we performed well, showcasing good football both in possession and defensively. It was justified for us to score and lead at half-time,” he said.

“The second half proved more challenging as they gained significant momentum, and we struggled to counter their rhythm. The energy from the crowd was palpable, continually escalating and, despite our substitutions, we failed to alter that dynamic.” AFP