Leeds move closer to Premier League survival with 3-1 win over Burnley

LONDON: Leeds United took a major step towards preserving their Premier League status with a 3-1 victory over already-relegated Burnley on Friday.

The result lifted Daniel Farke’s side nine points above the relegation zone, with only four matches left for the teams below them. Leeds climbed to 14th place in what has been a strong first season back in the top flight, and along with Sunderland have gone against the recent pattern of promoted clubs returning immediately to the second tier.

Leeds had gone into the match after missing out on a first FA Cup final appearance since 1973 following a 1-0 defeat to Chelsea at Wembley last weekend. They responded by securing three points through goals from Anton Stach, Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

“The three points are massive for us,” said Farke. “The job is not done yet. We will celebrate proper when it's mathematically done. But 43 points is good.”

Farke also said the win represented a significant moment for his side as they continued their push to stay up.

“Of course, it was a massive step for us tonight,” he added. “To deliver 10 points out of the last four games in a nervy period, as a newly-promoted side, is second to none.”

Staying in the division would also mark an important achievement for Farke, who previously guided Norwich City to promotion to the Premier League on two occasions but could not keep them there.

Leeds take control early

The contrast in motivation between the two teams was evident from the outset. Burnley had already been relegated and had parted ways with manager Scott Parker on Thursday, despite his record of winning promotion from the Championship with three different clubs.

Leeds made a fast start and went ahead in the eighth minute when Stach struck low, with Martin Dubravka slow to get down to the effort. The home side controlled much of the first half and then effectively settled the contest with two goals in four minutes shortly after the interval.

A well-worked move ended with Okafor finishing after Calvert-Lewin’s backheel found Jayden Bogle. The Switzerland forward has now scored six times in his last seven league appearances, playing a key role in Leeds’ fight against relegation.

Calvert-Lewin then added the third goal, turning in from close range for his 13th of the season after Dubravka could only push out Ao Tanaka’s attempt. His goals earlier in the campaign had also been important in keeping Leeds competitive.

Burnley’s difficult season continues

Burnley, who were only denied the Championship title by Leeds on goal difference last season, have found life in the Premier League far more difficult. Their relegation means they have now gone down for the third time in as many Premier League seasons.

There was at least a late response for the visitors in Mike Jackson’s first game as interim manager, as Loum Tchaouna scored a consolation goal.

For Leeds, however, the evening was chiefly about moving to the brink of safety and strengthening the prospect of extending their stay in the Premier League beyond this season.