Leeds United made the perfect start against Swansea City on Saturday afternoon, aiming to reclaim their spot at the top of the Championship table after Sheffield United’s 3-1 victory over Coventry the previous day (28 March).
With the promotion race set to go down to the wire, Leeds need near-perfect results from their remaining eight matches, and they couldn’t have asked for a better start at Elland Road.
Leeds take an early lead against Swansea
Brenden Aaronson, who has faced criticism for his recent lack of goal contributions, found himself at the right place to score after a scramble in Swansea’s box.
His goal just one minute into the match gave Leeds a great early advantage, setting them up for a potential victory.
Paul Merson was left amazed by the early goal, commenting on Sky Sports News (29 March, 15:01): “It’s a brilliant start from Leeds, takes the pressure off, 1-0, but unbelievable defending—it’s all over, it’s ping-pong.”
Elland Road must remain a fortress for Leeds
Leeds’ impressive home form has been a key factor in their success this season, with only four dropped points at Elland Road.
They’ve accumulated 48 points from a possible 57 in home fixtures, compared to just 32 out of 57 on the road.
If they can overcome Swansea, Leeds will have just three home matches remaining this season, and they must win them all, especially with their struggles away from home.
With promotion rivals Sheffield United and Burnley set to face each other later in the campaign, Leeds can afford to drop points in one away game, but they cannot afford any slip-ups at home.
Their final three home games will be against Preston, Stoke, and Bristol City—all winnable fixtures for a team with Premier League ambitions.
Dropping points in any of these matches could jeopardize their automatic promotion hopes and risk a playoff spot, a route that has historically been unkind to them.
