Leeds reclaimed top spot in the Championship with a comprehensive 1-0 victory over Oxford United, matching earlier wins by promotion rivals Burnley and Sheffield United. A first-half goal from Manor Solomon proved to be the difference, edging them ahead of Burnley on goal difference with just three games remaining. Oxford United, meanwhile, slipped to 19th, five points clear of the relegation zone and still needing points to secure their Championship status.

The pressure was on Leeds after Burnley’s win over Watford and Sheffield United's victory against Cardiff City earlier in the day. Successive wins over Boro and Preston North End had steadied their nerves after a wobble reminiscent of the previous seasons late collapse.

In their first league visit to Oxford since 1990, Leeds faced a stubborn home side. The Whites bossed the game for much of the proceedings, offering Gary Rowett's side only scraps to feed off. It was far from the attractive football that we have been used to, but at this stage of the season, all that matter is the points in the bag!

After an early scare from Cameron Brannagan, Leeds began to assert their dominance. Jamie Cumming denied Brenden Aaronson, and a brilliant Ben Nelson clearance prevented a certain goal for Willy Gnonto. The breakthrough came in the 33rd minute. Joe Rodon's excellent pass found Jayden Bogle, who squared the ball for Solomon to steer home his ninth goal of the season. Bogle missed an opportunity to extend the lead early in the second half, and Ao Tanaka was unlucky to see his long-range strike hit the post late on.

Leeds then had to withstand a barrage of long throws as Oxford searched for an equaliser. However, resolute defending, particularly from Rodon, ensured the clean sheet and the victory. Despite the loss, Oxford will look to bounce back in their tricky match against Cardiff on Monday.

	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
	9	Bamford, Patrick Forward
	7	James, Daniel Midfielder
	33	Schmidt, Isaac Defender
	23	Guilavogui, Josuha Midfielder
	1	Meslier, Illan Goalkeeper		Unused Sub
	25	Byram, Sam Defender		Unused Sub
	39	Wober, Max Defender		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