Leeds United's Dominance Continues with Crucial Win over Stoke City

Dan James’ first-half goal secured a crucial victory for promotion-chasing Leeds United against struggling Stoke City at Elland Road. The win marked Leeds’ 10th in 11 league matches maintaining their strong form. Despite early pressure from Leeds and a missed penalty appeal, James found the net with a deflected shot after linking up with Georginio Rutter.

Stoke improved in the second half testing Leeds’ defense but failed to capitalize on chances. Stoke’s hopes diminished further when Ben Pearson received a second yellow card, leaving them with 10 men. The win keeps Leeds in third place in the Championship trailing Ipswich by two points and leaders Leicester by five. Stoke remains third from bottom losing seven of their last nine matches.

Leeds manager Daniel Farke expressed pride in the hard-fought win highlighting the team’s resilience. Stoke head coach Steven Schumacher acknowledged his team’s positive signs but expressed disappointment at the loss emphasizing the need to build on their performance.