Leeds United v Derby County

Journey to Elland Road

The journey to Elland Road for the match between Leeds United and Derby County, is as much a part of the experience as the game itself. Departing early in the morning for the 12:30 kick-off, the Chiltern Whites gather at the designated meeting points. The 52-seater luxury coach provided for this outing, sets the stage for an enjoyable trip, with plush reclining seating and modern amenities that ensure a smooth ride, a welcome aspect considering the distant destination and tricky driving conditions.

Despite the weather, which can often affect travel plans, the determination and passion of our group shone through. The anticipation builds with each passing mile, finally culminating in the sight of Elland Road in the distance, an iconic landmark that promises an exhilarating match day experience.

Match Overview

The highly anticipated encounter between Leeds United and Derby unfolded under challenging conditions, as heavy rain and strong winds made playing football a challenging prospect.

Leeds United quickly established dominance, utilising their aggressive playing style and quick ball movement to exploit the less-than-ideal conditions. The team’s resilience and adaptability were on full display as they maneuvered around the soaked pitch, showcasing their superiority between the sides.

A key moment of the game arrived after 21 minutes when Leeds were forced to make a substitute, after Firpo went down with a suspected hamstring strain, but with Leeds impressive squad depth, up comes the Austrian international Max Wöber to play the left fullback role.

The Leeds fans spirits were lifted after 38 minutes when Rodon connected his header to a brilliant corner from Rothwell , making it 1-0 to Leeds, who said Leeds can’t score from a corner!

Derby, now clearly on the back foot, attempted to regroup and adjust their formation to stymie Leeds' advances. Despite their best efforts, the team struggled to find their rhythm against the mighty whites.

While Leeds continued to build on their momentum, the Leeds fans didn’t have long to wait for the second goal, on the 44th minute Max Wöber connected impeccably with a driven pass from Aaronson making it 2-0 at the half time break.

The second half, Leeds came out the brighter dominating possession, Leeds continuously pressing forward and forcing Derby's defenders into a state of near-constant alertness.

The pressure was unmistakable, with Leeds utilising their dynamic attacking players to wreak havoc in the final third. One of the notable moments came in the 51st minute when Solomon's exquisite curling effort, which seemed destined for the top corner but ultimately went wide, leaving fans gasping in disbelief, unlucky.

James, another key figure showcased his power with a stunning long-range strike that prompted an impressive reaction from Derby's keeper, Zetterström.

Piroe too was unlucky forcing the keeper to make yet another fine save. After several substitutions the game came to a close, a fine win for Leeds taking them to the top of the league on goal difference, having played one more game than Sheffield United.

A good team effort with Rodon, Wöber and Rothwell the standout performers.

Final result Leeds United 2 – Derby County O

Chiltern Whites man of the match: Joe Rothwell

Match attendance: 36,517