In a dramatic encounter that kept the Premier League's European chase wide open, Leeds United secured a hard fought 1. 0 victory over Brighton & Hove...
In a dramatic encounter that kept the Premier League's European chase wide open, Leeds United secured a hard fought 1. 0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Elland Road, with Dominic Calvert. Lewin netting a 96th minute winner that will sting the Seagulls for some time. The goal, a clinical finish from close range after a scramble from a corner, was the very definition of a smash and grab, leaving Fabian Hurzeler's side rooted in 7th place with just one week of the campaign remaining. For large swathes of the contest, it was Brighton who enjoyed the lion's share of possession and looked the more likely to break the deadlock, but a resolute Leeds defence, marshalled by the towering figure of Nigerian international William Troost. Ekong, stood firm. The Super Eagles stalwart was a formidable presence in the heart of the backline, making crucial interceptions and aerial clearances that frustrated the visitors. At the end of the day, it was a game of fine margins and Hurzeler will be left to rue his side's inability to convert their dominance into goals. In the scheme of things, this defeat is a bitter pill to swallow for Brighton, who now face the very real prospect of missing out on Europa League football next season, a prize worth many millions of Naira. The powers that be at the Amex will be hoping that their Nigerian forward, Ademola Lookman, can rediscover his scoring boots in the final match to salvage the situation. The Elland Road faithful erupted in delirium at the final whistle, their team having given a good account of themselves against a top half side. Back home in Lagos, at popular viewing centres in Surulere and Ikeja, the atmosphere was electric. One could hear the collective groan from fans in jerseys of both colours as the clock ticked past 90 minutes, only for that groan to transform into a deafening roar when the net bulged. As the referee pointed to the centre circle, discussions erupted over chilled bottles of malt and soft drinks, with many debating whether Hurzeler should have made his substitutions earlier, while others bemoaned the missed chances that ultimately cost the Seagulls a vital point on the road.
