In today's League match, Everton faced a defeat at the hands of Leeds, marking a successful start for the latter.
Leeds United Kick Off Premier League Return with Dramatic 2-1 Victory Over Everton
Leeds United started their 2021-2022 Premier League season on a high note, securing a 2-1 victory over Everton at Elland Road in Leeds, England. The dramatic win, marked by a last-minute goal by Jack Harrison, was a significant boost for the newly promoted team as they aim to avoid the trend of the past two seasons where all three promoted clubs have been relegated.
The match commenced with Leeds displaying confidence, having won the Championship title with a record 100 points last season. In the opening half, Leeds dominated the game, taking 12 shots on goal, with England goalkeeper Pickford blocking one from Joel Piroe. However, Everton did not pose any significant attacking threat in the first half.
The game took a turn when Jack Grealish, Everton's new signing, was introduced in the second half, coinciding with Everton's best spell of the game. Despite the momentum shift, Leeds managed to maintain their composure and fought back, leading to Lukas Nmecha's goal in the 84th minute. The goal was a controversial penalty, with James Tarkowski being adjudged to have handled the ball.
Nmecha's goal seemed to have sealed the victory for Leeds, but Tarkowski had a chance to make amends with an equalizer. Unfortunately, he headed over, ensuring Leeds' win.
Daniel Farke, the manager of Leeds, has struggled with the step-up to the English top-flight in the past. However, the victory over Everton is a promising start for Leeds, who are aiming to establish Elland Road as a fortress in the Premier League.
In the summer of 2021, Leeds strengthened their squad, adding eight new players, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin (though Calvert-Lewin is an Everton player, there might have been a mix-up in the source). Prior to this game, Leeds had struggled to win in many previous Premier League matches historically, but their strong Championship performance gave hope for a positive start.
Tarkowski, who was involved in the controversial penalty decision, stated that he believed the decision was not a penalty and that he expected it to be overturned by the video assistant referee. Despite the controversy, Leeds held on to their lead, securing a crucial victory and three points in their opening match of the season.
