Leeds United concluded the year on a high note with victory over a determined Derby County side, igniting a renewed sense of anticipation and optimism going into 2025. Brendan Aaronson's decisive 79th-minute goal, his seventh of the campaign, ensured the Whites secured top spot, and puts them on track to achieve a projected 98 points tally come May.

After keeping Leeds at bay during the opening half, Derby emerged with a sense of vigour and confidence. Only three weeks ago (after the two sides had met), Rams Manager Paul Warne had described his squad as a "League One team with a bit of sugar on top", but roared on by their biggest gate of the season, the hosts gave it their all.

Although a far more open second half, the Leeds defence held firm. Rams shot-stopper Zetterstrom denied efforts from Aaronson and Ramazani, whilst at the other end Meslier pulled off a good save from Nelson. With 20 minutes left on the clock, Farke (finally) made the changes every Leeds fan had been screaming for, and it completely changed the game.

Within minutes of coming on, James was denied by the outstretched legs of Zetterstrom after a peach of a cross from Solomon; but was powerless to deny Aaronson minutes later, after a well constructed opening involving Byram and Solomon, Piroe delivered a perfectly weighted ball for Aaronson to run on to, and smash past the keeper from 12 yards, ending any hopes of Derby getting anything from the game.

	Line Up		Nat	Match Events
	1	Meslier, Illan Goalkeeper
	2	Bogle, Jayden Defender
	25	Byram, Sam Defender
	6	Rodon, Joe Defender
	5	Struijk, Pascal Defender
	22	Tanaka, Ao Midfielder
	4	Ampadu, Ethan Midfielder
	17	Ramazani, Largie Midfielder
	29	Gnonto, Wilfried Midfielder
	11	Aaronson, Brenden Midfielder
	19	Joseph, Mateo Forward
	Subs		Nat	Match Events
	10	Piroe, Joel Forward
	7	James, Daniel Midfielder
	14	Solomon, Manor Midfielder
	9	Bamford, Patrick Forward
	23	Guilavogui, Josuha Midfielder
	26	Darlow, Karl Goalkeeper		Unused Sub
	33	Schmidt, Isaac Defender		Unused Sub
	37	Debayo, James Defender		Unused Sub
	8	Rothwell, Joe Midfielder		Unused Sub

	References
	LEEDSTATS: Leeds United Season 2024/2025
	Sheridan Dictates: Season Statistics 2024-25
	Leeds United Programme Guide: Season 2024/25