Leeds United have done it again. Behind at the break, in front come full-time. This time it was Sheffield United who were the unfortunate opponents.
Last Monday, Leeds United came from behind to beat Sunderland at Elland Road. Daniel Farke’s side showcased their promotion credentials with a whirlwind second half performance and they did so again at Bramall Lane.
In another Monday night game under the lights, live on Sky Sports, Leeds United allowed their opponents the lead for more than hour. But Leeds put three past Sheffield United in the final 20 minutes to eventually win 3-1.
Junior Firpo scored the first, then Ao Tanaka scored the second before Joel Piroe smashed home the third, and his 15th Championship goal of the season as Leeds United go five points clear at the top of the Championship table.
Sheffield United remain in 2nd. Chris Wilder will be furious with how his side dismantled in the second half against the Whites, and it appears as though the fans had had enough even before full-time.
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Sheffield United fans leave after Ao Tanaka goal for Leeds United
There was no denying that Sheffield United were in the driving seat for the majority of the game. Nor is there any denying that Leeds were really poor for large spells. But the visitors were that good in the final 20 minutes or so that they left, in the end, with a deserved win.
Tanaka’s goal lifted the roof off the away end at Bramall Lane. So much so that it forced Sheffield United fans to exit Bramall Lane in numbers, as noted by BBC reporter Ian Woodcock who posted on the live text: “It’s happened again! Bedlam in the Leeds end. Some Blades fans start to head for the exits. Remarkable!”
Leeds are now unbeaten in 16 in the league, as Farke takes a huge step towards what would a third career promotion from the Championship as a manger.
What Daniel Farke loves about Ao Tanaka at Leeds United
The £2.7million summer signing from Fortuna Dusseldorf has certainly earned his keep since arriving at Elland Road. Tanaka now has three goals and two assists in 31 Championship appearances for the Whites this season, and his goal in Sheffield on Monday night might be one of the most important he’s ever scored.
He’s loved by Leeds United fans and by Farke too. Speaking earlier in February, Farke hailed Tanaka’s role at Leeds United, playing down his leadership skills but bigging up his overall presence and contributions to the XI.
Farke explained: “I think overall, it’s important he’s in a central role. You have to lead and make sure they are all on the same page. Football is one language that everyone understands.
“To lead by example on the pitch with good performances is what we expected. A player like Archie Gray last season at 18 when in a central role (did this). Of course, Tanaka is not the biggest leader in terms of speaking but he plays a crucial role.”
The midfield department is well-stocked in quality at Leeds this season. And Tanaka’s goal is a reminder to Fark that the Japanese midfielder isn’t just a good passer and mover of the ball, but someone who can pop up with some crucial goals too.
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