Leeds United struggled in their 1-0 loss to promotion rivals Burnley on Saturday. Moreover, one opposing player revealed how challenging that win for the away side was.
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.
Zian Flemming offered a bold take on Leeds’ attack
During the match, Leeds had 17 total shots while having 71 percent possession and generating scoring chances. Nonetheless, Burnley midfielder Zian Flemming noted that he didn’t believe the Whites were generating chances that could result in a goal.
“The first half we scored the goal; I think we had more chances to score another one even,” Flemming told Burnley’s official website. “We looked a threat in the first half and the second half we got pushed back a little bit more, it was more defending.
“Overall, [James] Traff made a few good saves, but still I didn’t have the feeling that they had massive chances. 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.”
Furthermore, Flemming noted that playing away at Leeds is arguably the most challenging match of the season. As a result, they’re more than happy leaving Elland Road with three points.
“Those games need to have a bit of everything, this is not one that you’re just going to turn up and win,” Flemming added. “Obviously, Elland Road, Leeds, it’s one of the toughest, if not the toughest games of the season and we’ve done it!”
Leeds will head to Cardiff City next weekend, hoping to bounce back from Saturday’s disappointing performance and result against Burnley. A road win will be needed since the Whites are currently out of the top six.