Leeds United manager Daniel Farke smiling and waving at Everton manager David Moyes in a circle
(Credit: Imago)
Max Wilkins
Fri 22 August 2025 15:19, UK
Leeds United were subject to huge controversy in their Premier League opener against Everton.
Leeds secured their first win of the season against Everton as a debut goal from Lukas Nmecha proved to be the difference for Daniel Farke’s side.
It is safe to say that the latest Elland Road rendition of We Predict a Riot was louder than most, especially after the controversial end in LS11.
This came as the forward signed from Wolfsburg was able to take aim from the penalty spot after a contentious penalty was awarded against James Tarkowski.
Regardless of this being opening day, David Moyes and the Toffees were left fuming, something which has since piqued the interest of a co-owner in Yorkshire.
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There has been no shortage of discourse after the full-time whistle at Elland Road, with former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett being against the penalty call against Tarkowski, while others were in agreement with the match officials.
Nmecha was able to take advantage with his first penalty in 1,551 days, but that was only the beginning of conversations around referee Chris Kavanagh.
Nmecha joined Leeds for free from Wolfsburg
He came on for Joel Piroe after 78 minutes against Everton
Despite having just 10 touches, he scored the winning goal
With that being said, Farke and Co. won’t be giving the decision a second thought after picking up a massive three points to begin their new Premier League journey.
This sentiment has been echoed by Leeds co-owner Larry Nance Jr, who has been speaking out on the Whites via his new podcast, Switch the Play (22 August).
When discussing the result against Everton, the Cleveland Cavaliers star wasn’t afraid of bringing up the Tarkowski controversy in LS11.
He said: “1-0 to the Leeds, starting off with three points strong. We’re staying up, we’re staying up. I’m just thrilled and hate that it had to be at your expense.
“Well, look, he leaned into it. He leaned into it. Would I have called it? No. But am I mad about it? No.”
Larry Nance Jr takes a perfect stance against Everton anger
There is little reason for anyone associated with Thorp Arch to give anything from the win over Everton a second thought.
With Nmecha netting the winner, the Whites can take three points and run without having a second thought or worry.
This is the exact stance of Nance Jr, who seemingly doesn’t care that the decision was harsh against Tarkowski, but is just happy to have seen Leeds secure a huge win.
By comparison, Moyes and his players were left fuming on the pitch at Elland Road, and in fairness, it’s probably for good reason given the position of the centre-back’s arm.
There was little chance for the Englishman to be in a more natural position, although, as the Leeds co-owner said, he “leaned into it,” so it’s fair to say that you make your own luck with refereeing decisions.
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