Leeds United will definitely be reeling from their result on Wednesday night. Their unbeaten run came to an end at the hand of the Magpies.
Getting results against Manchester United and Liverpool raised fans hopes of getting something at St. James’ Park. But the reality on the ground was much different. Leeds took the lead in the game, and were ahead in the game twice but still ended up losing the game.
After two games where their defensive solidity was able to earn them some points, the Whites were dragged into a high-scoring game where they lost. At the end of the match, Daniel Farke admitted that his game management was the reason his team lost; Leeds were leading the game as of the 90th minute heading into injury time. Newcastle scored twice; with Bruno Guimaraes converting the controversial penalty awarded, and Harvey Barnes sealing all three points.
Karl Darlow could start for Leeds United in next game
Up next for Leeds United is FA Cup action. The Whites will be hoping to bounce back from their defeat at St. James’ Park. They are up against Derby in the third round of the cup competition.
Farke has not been one to take these cup games seriously, so many expect the club to rotate. This game will gave a chance to fringe players to be able to get some minutes. Fans will however, remember the EFL cup exit at the hands of Sheffield Wednesday earlier in the season. Many players could feature against Derby, including the likes of Karl Darlow, Sam Byram, Illia Gruev and Sebastiaan Bornauw.
READ MORE: ‘We were naive…’ – Daniel Farke gives brutally honest assessment of heartbreaking Newcastle defeat
Huge chance to bench Lucas Perri
The goalkeeping situation at Leeds United has gotten complicated over the past few weeks. With how Lucas Perri has been performing, there have been multiple criticisms of the Brazilian this season. Earlier this campaign, it was his passing that was called into question; he used to give the balls away too easily and always booted the ball under pressure.
Now, his shot stopping is what has come under the microscope. Perri has not been exactly a pair of safe hands in recent weeks, and he made an error in the lead up to the winning goal by Newcastle United. If Darlow does start the cup game against Derby, a good performance could go a long way. Perri’s place in the team is already shaky, and Darlow has shown earlier this campaign that he is a very competent option between the sticks.
