Leeds United are in seven heaven on Saturday evening after absolutely destroying Cardiff City 7-0.
The match couldn’t have been more different to the dull, gritty and goalless war of attrition they took part in against Burnley on Monday, with Leeds United scoring goals from the off.
It was Brenden Aaronson who got the scoring started after just five minutes when he tapped home and Manor Solomon doubled the lead shortly afterwards.
Dan James created both and got in on the act himself just after the break with his own goal from close range.
Joel Piroe then tucked away a penalty before substitutes Willy Gnonto and Mateo Joseph both got on the score sheet. The destruction was concluded when Piroe made it seven with his second in the dying moments.
Piroe, Solomon and Junior Firpo all had great performances but BBC pundit Betty Glover picked James out for specific praise.
Dan James hailed for ‘masterminding’ Leeds triumph
James was the only player who managed a shot on target in the Burnley game and he seemed determined to ensure Saturday’s fixture wouldn’t be as dull.
The Welsh winger started running the beleaguered Blue Birds back line ragged within 30 seconds and set the tone for the vanquishing.
Speaking on BBC Final Score, Glover was full of praise for James. She said: “Both teams came into this on unbeaten runs but it is Leeds who will be maintaining theirs – on track to go 13 games without defeat.
“Dominating this one, thrashing Cardiff. Dan James, two assists and a goal. He’s been masterminding everything today.
“They’re carding through this Cardiff backline like you would a roast dinner. I can’t see them even getting a goal in this one because Leeds are that dominant.”
Statement victory for Leeds in Championship title race
Such a dominant victory is sure to send a worrying message to Leeds’ title rivals.
Sheffield United remain within two points of Leeds at the top of the Championship table after they squeaked by Derby County.
However, the Whites have now stretchered their lead on Burnley to five points after they played out another 0-0 on Saturday, this time with Portsmouth.
In addition, the heavy win has done wonders for Leeds’ goal difference, as Aidy White was recently concerned about.
Leeds now have a +41 GD, which is miles better than the Blades’ +20, a gap that might be insurmountable which could come in handy in May.
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