Leeds United’s win against West Ham United stopped a three match winless run for the team. It also lifted them to 15th place, five clear of the relegation zone.
Daniel Farke’s secured their third win of the season against the Hammers, same as their next opponents Brighton. For both two of their three wins came at home but have lost three away. But that is where the similarities end.
Brighton whether at home or away are a tough nut to crack. More so for Leeds and its been like that for years.
Leeds United face tough test
The two teams are separated by just a solitary point. The Seagulls are 13th, while the Whites two spots down the ladder. But it is the opponents against whom the wins came that set them apart.
Leeds three wins came against Everton, Wolverhampton and West Ham. Teams are who are currently 14th, 19th and 20th on the table. Two relegation zone sides, who will surely count among the easier teams to beat.
Brighton on the other hand have few heavyweight victims under their belt. Both Manchester City and Newcastle succumbed at the American Express Stadium. They also drew against Tottenham at home.
Their other victim was Chelsea. Fabian Hurzeler’s side ran them ragged at Stamford Bridge. Last week too they gave a scare to Manchester United. Fighting back from 3-0 down to end the game in a 4-2 defeat.
All of the above teams except Newcastle sit in the top half of the table. Arguably, Brighton has had to face tougher battles in the league. Leeds on paper will be an easier outing for them.
Brighton has the historical edge
Even on the head-to-head front, Saturday’s opponents sit ahead. In 51 games across competitions and divisions, Brighton leads the rivalry 19-18 with 14 matches ending up as a draw.
In the Premier League too, Leeds have always drawn the short end of the stick, with 3 losses and 3 draws in their 6 games in the competition. And the story only gets grimmer.
Leeds have not won a game at Brighton since November of 2009. A 0-3 demolition in League One. But things have come a long way since then. They are now winless in nine visits with three draws and six defeats.
If away records give a sad story, even home doesn’t provide any solace. Their last home at Elland Road against the same opponents was in 2017 in the Championship. Farke’s side has not won at home or away against Hurzeler’s team in eight years.
However, having secured their first home win over West Ham in 20 years, Leeds will be looking to break another curse. The 49er’s and their fans can only hope.
