Leeds United’s attacking shortcomings came under scrutiny after their goalless draw with Brentford – but goalkeeper Karl Darlow saw the flip side of the coin.
The goalkeeper could only watch as the Whites struggled to break down a compact and resolute Brentford defence at Elland Road last night (March 21).
It marked the club’s fourth consecutive league game without a goal and understandably heightened concerns among the fanbase.
Darlow, however, was keen to highlight a different set of figures. Farke’s men have kept back-to-back clean sheets in the Premier League and leaked just three goals across five games.
Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has kept back-to-back clean sheets in the Premier League.placeholder image
Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has kept back-to-back clean sheets in the Premier League. | Oli SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images
Karl Darlow hails defensive unit
He said: “I think the way we defended as a team, and it's not just the defenders, I think right from the front we’ve managed to nullify any sort of shots on target and that's a real positive.
"Now, all we have to do is find the net at the other end. But it's positive that we're defending so well, especially in a league where you've got Igor Thiago, who's got 19 goals in the Premier League.
"I think that shows just how good a job we're doing defensively.”
Compliment from Brentford
Brentford sit seventh in the Premier League yet set up with defensive solidity a priority against the relegation-threatened Whites.
Darlow said: “It shows the respect that they've shown us. I think coming to Elland Road, they knew it was going to be a tough game and they've adapted to a five at the back.
“[We are] slightly frustrated that we didn't come out with all three points, but [with] where they are in the league, I think a point has to be respected and it's another step in the right direction for us.
Brentford successfully stifled the Leeds United attack.placeholder image
Brentford successfully stifled the Leeds United attack. | Richard Sellers/PA Wire
“I think sometimes you have these sort of runs, especially in the Premier League, we just need a scruffy one to go in and then we're back on our way.
"But it shows we've got the steel to keep coming out with points and grinding out 0-0s when we need to, it's better than losing. So, we take a point and move on.
“We were frustrated and a bit disappointed, but again, it was obviously respectful of their position in the league. They are where they are for a reason.”