Leeds United took another huge step towards Premier League survival with a comfortable 3-0 win over Wolves at Elland Road.
Buoyed by their victory over Manchester United last week, they came into this game knowing a win would all but secure their top-flight status for next season — and they made it count.
James Justin spectacularly opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a brilliant bicycle kick, and just two minutes later, Noah Okafor doubled the lead with a classy finish from a Brenden Aaronson cross.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin converted a penalty in injury time to add more shine to the scoreline at Elland Road. But the referee’s decision has not gone down too well with everyone.
Leeds now sit nine points clear of the relegation zone and, with only five games left to play, look as good as safe.
But Daniel Farke gives a stern warning to his Leeds players
Daniel Farke looked relieved after the win at Manchester United last summer and was ecstatic after his side swatted a Wolves side destined for relegation today.
As things stand, Leeds have a huge buffer over the relegation zone with just five games left in the season and are firm favourites to stay up.
It would take a monumental meltdown from Leeds and an unexpected turn in form for Tottenham for the Whites to get relegated from this stage.
However, the Leeds manager is not celebrating yet, and has conceded that while 39 would have been enough in any other season, he suspects his team would need a few more points to guarantee safety.
He stressed the importance of his players staying focused and getting the job done in the coming weeks.
Farke told reporters after the game: “In a normal season, 39 is enough, but this is a special season.
“Tottenham are trying to chase. Nottingham, in Europe, is heavily invested, chasing us. Still have to play West Ham and Tottenham.
“Nothing done yet. Fantastic position, but still need one or more points.
“We have to stay focused.”
Leeds may have done enough
With Premier League safety all but confirmed, Leeds and their fans can enjoy the final stretch of the season, and there’s still plenty to look forward to.
Home fixtures against Burnley and Brighton are coming up, along with away trips to Bournemouth and Tottenham, before they close out the campaign at West Ham.
Attention now turns to Wembley, where Leeds will take on Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final later this month, a massive occasion they can fully focus on.
The prospect of staying up and pushing for an FA Cup final is more than enough to have Leeds supporters buzzing.
