At what stage does a good start become something more significant? Perhaps we are not quite there yet; maybe we are. But as the goals flew in on a chaotic night at Elland Road, it was difficult not to think the boundaries of expectation for Leeds were potentially being redrawn.
Ask those close to the action over the summer at Leeds and the feeling was that there was a possibility of something special materialising this season. Having found their feet in the Premier League in the last campaign, the platform had been set and a very good summer transfer window seemed like the catalyst for even brighter days to return to West Yorkshire. But even with that optimism in mind, this night felt significant.
Leeds did not just beat a Newcastle side who themselves have started brightly under Matthias Jaissle, they dismantled them. And with the manner of this victory, Daniel Farke’s side sit third in the table. Perhaps, in this world of demanding success overnight, there is a lesson here in patience for both clubs too.
As Elland Road’s patrons likely pinched themselves when the outstanding Dominic Calvert-Lewin made it 3-0 before half-time it was easy to forget that, under a year ago, large swathes of supporter were suggesting time was up for Farke. His decision to change to a back three against Manchester City last November saved his job and sparked an upturn in form that saw Leeds secure safety before starting this campaign in magnificent fashion. If this start continues with another win over Crystal Palace on Sunday, perhaps this side can do greater things than many first thought.
As for Jaissle, this was his first large bump in the road as Newcastle manager and there will possibly be more over the coming months as he imprints his vision on this team. But the decision-making of the Leeds side who vanquished them is evidence enough that patience can often pay off and Jaissle and his team could have no complaints about the scoreline. Leeds were magnificent from start to finish.
The opening goal was perhaps a touch fortuitous as Ao Tanaka’s shot bounced off the substitute Sean Steur and Lewis Miley to wrongfoot Lukas Hornicek, but it was the least Leeds deserved. Two minutes later, the lead was doubled when Jayden Bogle headed home a James Justin cross. Bogle has quietly been one of Leeds’ standout performers for some time and he is one of a few Leeds players who Thomas Tuchel may find difficult to ignore before naming his latest England squad later this week.
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