Burnley manager Scott Parker praised his squad after the 1-0 win over Leeds United on Saturday at Elland Road. The 43-year-old also noted three traits that he saw from his team that led to the away victory.
Before the international break, the Whites were in good form, unbeaten in their first four matches with two wins and two draws. With both teams eager to stay in the race for automatic promotion, this match was critical for Burnley and Leeds.
In a closely fought contest, the game’s only goal came in the 18th minute when Luca Koleosho put Burnley ahead—a lead they held onto for the rest of the match.
Scott Parker: Burnley beat Leeds by using three impressive traits
Parker saw three characteristics in the Clarets’ performance after scoring a goal early in the match and holding onto their advantage. He also noted that those traits led to their win over Leeds, who they leapfrogged in the Championship table with Saturday’s result.
“It’s a massive three points for us,” Parker told Burnley’s official website. “It’s obviously a tough place to come, certainly for where we are and the stages of our development as well. It’s a very, very big three points.
“The foundations that got us the three points today was everything we need to stand for as a team: grit, determination, battling spirit to a man. We showed every bit of that and that’s ultimately why we got the three points.”
Moreover, Burnley midfielder Zian Flemming boldly analyzed the match, saying he didn’t believe the Whites were generating chances that could result in a goal.
“Overall, [James] Traff made a few good saves, but still, I didn’t have the feeling that they had massive chances,” Flemming said. “They had maybe the one that was offside. Even though they were building pressure on us and giving us a tough time, I think our final third was outstanding.”
Leeds will travel to Cardiff City next weekend, looking to recover from their disappointing performance and result against Burnley on Saturday. A win on the road will be crucial, as the Whites are currently outside the top six.