Leeds United won their first three points this season on Monday night. The Whites became the first Championship holders to win their opening game in the last 17 years.
Daniel Farke’s men gave a very good account for themselves on the night. In different circumstances, the scoreline could have been bigger if the team was able to finish off their chances. It took a late penalty for Leeds to secure their first three points of the season.
Most Read on The Leeds Press
Last month, Daniel Farke spoke about why the club decided to recruit players with certain physical characteristics.
“Of course, if you join the Premier League and you have one of the smallest groups, you expect that probably there is more pressure on you than was perhaps in the Championship,” he explained.
“You have to make sure that you are also good at defending crosses. Also more corner kicks, more wide-area free kicks against us. It’s important to be really, really good and strong.
“Also on the other end. Because I’m not sure if we can dominate all of the games in the manner we did on Championship level.”
Out of the eight new signings this summer, most of the outfielders stand a 6ft or taller.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United defenders?
Coady thinks Daniel Farke has brought ‘Bielsa’ factor back to Leeds United
Credit: Imago
On Monday night, the Whites showed their more physical side as they more than matched Everton in duels. It came in handy as Leeds saw out the game despite all the late set pieces from David Moyes’ side.
Conor Coady was discussing the game, and noted that he saw how much more physical the Leeds team looked on the pitch. To him, it was a throwback to the style when Bielsa was in charge:
“I think of Leeds as being physical. Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds, they could run all day, their athleticism. Teams that can outrun you, overpower you. It seems like Farke has really bought into the Leeds way,” Coady said.
The ‘height advantage’ will pay off in the Premier League
Leeds were able to deal with the crosses and set pieces on Monday night. A good sign that they will not be outmatched in games throughout the season. Most sides in the top flight rely on crosses and set pieces when they want to edge games. If Leeds can keep teams out, their chances of getting results will be much higher during games.
Getting midfielders like Ao Tanaka and Anton Stach to win their duels in the middle of the park can also win games. Leeds’ recruitment have done a great job of finding players who can do that to a high level.
Related Topics