Football News

Returning Leeds fans mob goalscoring hero as supporters treated to West Brom stroll to finish season

Leeds United ended their season in strong fashion in front of their own fans, beating relegated West Brom 3-1 at Elland Road.

The Whites had no need to go chasing a result, after setting the record for the most teams from a promoted team in Premier League history.

However, they put on a show, with Patrick Bamford adding to his goals collection amid a first in the top flight for Kalvin Phillips.

Leeds dominated the first half with more possession and more shots on target. However, it was the Baggies who could have taken the lead. From a corner, Kyle Bartley had a free header but it swung agonisingly wide.

The hosts – joined by 10,000 returning fans at Elland Road – thought they had taken the lead when Jack Harrison finished off a fine move, but the offside flag was raised after Rodrigo’s involvement.

Nevertheless, Marcelo Bielsa‘s men had the momentum, with West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone forced to come out and defend his goal.

But the England hopeful could not defend Leeds’ opener; a corner came in and after a scramble, it arrived for Rodrigo to head home from less than six yards, subsequently celebrating with his fans in style.

West Brom did have their moments, with Whites stopper Kiko Casilla forced to save a header. He then watched Callum Robinson’s snapshot go wide of his left post.

However, an unnerving moment for his opposite number Johnstone helped put Leeds two up.

Phillips tried his luck with a free-kick from some range and the bounce before it got to Johnstone beat him, the goalkeeper missing his save.

Leeds finish with a flourish

Pablo Hernandez, who is leaving Leeds at the end of the season, set the tone for the second half with a shot on the turn that Johnstone did well to save.

He later had a similar effort, but had it blocked away for a corner.

Like in the first half, West Brom did have their moments, with Casilla called into action to save a shot from the edge of the area. Grady Diangana then had the freedom of the box to shoot, but he leaned back and blasted over.

In between those chances, Leeds turned the screw with Raphinha and Bamford looking to finish their seasons on a strong note.

Leeds tributes followed by injury concern

There were special moments for Gaetano Berardi and Hernandez on 68 minutes, the former – who is also leaving – going off to a standing ovation with tears in his eyes alongside his colleague.

Bamford then sealed the win with a penalty, beating Johnstone to put a gloss on his side’s afternoon, before Hal Robson-Kanu grabbed a late consolation for the Baggies to make it 3-1.

Right at the end, however, there was concern for England midfielder Phillips, who left the field with a concerning-looking injury.

Nevertheless, Leeds ended with a strong finish to the season, sitting in ninth place in the Premier League table.

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