The Whites breathe a sigh of relief after victory vs Southampton thanks to Junior Firpo. The full-back netted the only goal of the game in the 77th minute Infront of a sold out Elland Road.
Both sides desperately in need of a victory especially Leeds after defeat vs fellow strugglers Everton last weekend. As the hailstone changed to sunshine, Elland Road was in fine voice as both sets of supporters knew the next 90 minutes would be there least enjoyable of their week.
The first half struggled to gain any momentum with both sides lacking confidence and conviction in the final third. Leeds best chance of the half fell to Luke Ayling but the full-back couldn’t keep his shot down. As for the visitors, Stuart Armstrong found some space in the box but couldn’t hit the target almost dragging his shot into the West Stand.
Nobody can deny the hosts were the better of two very poor teams in the first 45. It looked like another frustrating day at the office was on the cards until new boss Javia Gracia shuffled his pack on the hour mark. Willy Gnonto had a quieter afternoon than we’ve been used to from him this season, his replacement Crysensio Summervile made a vital contribution in the 77th minute. The tricky winger kept the ball alive in the corner finding Jack Harrison who supplied the goods for Junior Firpo. The Spaniard slotted the ball underneath Gavin Bazunu, the keeper won’t want to tune into Match of The Day this evening as he’d expected to be doing better with the attempt. Take nothing away from Firpo who before the goal was one of Leeds best players and has been in recent games despite results. Elland Road descend into chaos with fans and players flying all over the place, even Willy Gnonto who had been replaced couldn’t contain his excitement and found himself in Peter Banks book.
With the referee blowing for full-time the roof lifted off Elland Road. Excitement,euthoria and a lot of relief was in the air as news came through that due to other results the Whites had climbed up to 17th place. It’s fair to say Javi Gracia certainly understands the Leeds United rollercoaster after todays game.