Leeds United showed their resilience and quality as they overturned an early deficit to defeat Swansea City 3-1 at Elland Road on Wednesday night. The hosts scored three superb goals from Joel Piroe, Georginio Rutter and Dan James to secure their sixth home win of the season and move up to third place in the Sky Bet Championship table.
Swansea strike first but Leeds respond quickly
The game got off to a frantic start as both teams found the net within the first four minutes. Swansea took the lead in the opening minute when Josh Key’s long ball over the top was flicked over Illan Meslier by Jamie Patterson, who scored his fifth goal of the campaign. However, Leeds did not let their heads drop and equalised almost immediately. Crysencio Summerville sprinted down the right wing and played a perfect pass to Joel Piroe, who slotted the ball past Carl Rushworth for his seventh goal in a Leeds shirt and his first against his former club.
Georginio and James put Leeds in control
Leeds continued to press for a second goal and were rewarded just before half-time. Ethan Ampadu, who was making his first start for the club since joining on loan from Chelsea, delivered a pinpoint ball over the defence to Georginio, who controlled it brilliantly and held off his marker before calmly finishing into the bottom corner. It was the young Frenchman’s ninth goal of the season and his fifth in his last six games. Leeds went into the break with a deserved lead and a standing ovation from the home fans.
The second half saw Leeds maintain their dominance and extend their advantage in the 61st minute. Dan James, who had been denied by an offside flag in the first minute, got his name on the scoresheet with a stunning strike from outside the box. The Welsh winger, who was facing his former club for the first time since leaving in 2019, unleashed a powerful shot that flew past Rushworth and into the top corner. It was James’ fourth goal of the season and his first at Elland Road.
Swansea unable to mount a comeback
Swansea tried to get back into the game and made a triple substitution in the 71st minute, bringing on Harry Darling, Charlie Patino and Liam Cullen. However, they could not find a way past the solid Leeds defence, which was led by captain Pascal Struijk and former Swansea player Joe Rodon. Leeds also made some changes, introducing Patrick Bamford, Wisdom Gnonto, Junior Firpo, Ryan Anthony and Liam Cooper, who made his 200th appearance for the club. The final whistle confirmed Leeds’ victory and their rise to third place, just two points behind second-placed Southampton and 12 behind leaders Leicester City.
