Leeds United reclaimed the top spot in the Championship with a well-earned victory over a disappointing Preston North End side, edging closer to a coveted return to the Premier League. The win takes them to 88 points, ahead of Burnley by virtue of goal difference, but more importantly five clear of third placed Sheffield Utd.

Daniel Farke's team started strong, with Manor Solomon's stunning curler from 20 yards putting them ahead just four minutes into the match. However, Preston responded swiftly, with Kaine Kesler-Hayden's powerful strike leveling the score less than two minutes later after poor defending from Firpo.

Leeds quickly regained the advantage, with man of the match Jayden Bogle converting Solomon's precise cross from close range in the 13th minute. From that point onwards, the promotion-chasing hosts dominated proceedings, controlling possession and creating numerous opportunities. Joel Piroe was unlucky not to extend the lead, his close-range shot crashing against the crossbar.

Preston, in contrast, offered little threat and rarely troubled Karl Darlow. Their season appears to be fading away, with only one win in their last 11 league games. Their passing was littered by mistakes, they looked disinterested for large parts of the game, and they had less bite than a goldfish!

Leeds' superior goal difference means that seven points from their remaining four matches will all but guarantee their promotion back to the Premier League. The victory against Preston was a crucial step in that direction, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience.

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

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