Leeds United lost their six game losing streak midweek against Newcastle United. The Whites had a different game at St. James’ Park.
Against Manchester United and Liverpool, Daniel Farke employed more of a conservative style. And in both games, Leeds conceded just one goal which came from a mistake. Against Newcastle, the game was much different and more of a back and forth.
It looked like a sure win for the visitors, but a penalty from Bruno Guimaeres tied the game just into extra time and Harvey Barnes sealed the game in the dying seconds.
Stephen Warnock lays blame on duo for Newcastle goal
The Whites conceded four goals at St. James’ Park, after letting in just one effort between the Liverpool and Manchester United games. Wednesday side saw an uncharacteristically poor Leeds United defensive performance. Almost every goal they conceded on the night came from some sort of error.
Former player Stephen Warnock even pointed this out in his analysis of the match.
“Ampadu there, jumping in far too quick, Stach loses his man,”
| Statistic | |
|---|---|
| Goals conceded | 4 |
| Expected goals against | 2.44 |
| Big chances conceded | 3 |
| Shots against | 18 |
| Possession | 37% |
Warnock was spot on, there was too much ball watching going on in the box before the ball even got to Barnes. The midfield duo had all the time in the world to clear their lines, but failed to do so. It was an unnecessary goal to concede considering the final result.
Sean Longstaff’s return may help ease things
Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff are still the best two signings Leeds United made in the summer. They both provided almost instant impact since they joined the team. It was reported that Daniel Farke asked for more steel and dynamism in the middle of the park, and the duo provide just that.
Farke used Stach in a more advanced box-to-box role, far different from what the midfielder was known for in Germany. His presence in midfield has been a huge help for the Leeds attack. Sean Longstaff has also surprisingly been a key part of the team; his set pieces have created a lot of chances this season. The Whites have felt the absence of the former Newcastle United man in recent games – sometimes they look to open when the opponent attacks.
With Longstaff set to return to the team, Daniel Farke gets a player who can cover ground defensively and help out in situations like this.
