Leeds United strengthened their Premier League survival bid with a 2-1 win over West Ham at Elland Road on Friday night. Joe Rodon and Brenden Aaronson scored for the home side, while Mateus Fernandes netted a consolation goal for the visitors in the 90th minute.
Rodon’s Header
Rodon’s header, his second goal of the season, came from Sean Longstaff’s corner in the 15th minute. The goal highlighted a defensive lapse by West Ham, who have conceded nine goals from set-pieces this season, the most in the Premier League.
Tim Sherwood Criticizes West Ham’s Organisation
Former player Tim Sherwood was baffled by West Ham’s organisation, particularly the decision to task attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta with marking Rodon. “It’s down to the manager and the organisation,” Sherwood said on Sky Sports News. “Everyone in that stadium knows Rodon is a goal threat. So, what do you do? Who do you put to mark him? Paqueta.”
Rodon’s Impressive Form
The win was a significant boost for Leeds, who are fighting for survival in the Premier League. Rodon has been impressive for the Whites this season, starting all nine Premier League matches and averaging a Sofascore rating of 7.02. The 28-year-old Wales international has also scored more goals than any other defender in the top-flight this term.
Predicted Relegation
According to Opta, the Whites are predicted to avoid relegation, while West Ham is expected to struggle alongside Burnley and Wolves. The win will give Leeds a much-needed boost in their fight for survival, and they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.
Rodon’s Statistics
Rodon has been going from strength to strength since arriving at Elland Road, initially signing for Leeds on loan from Tottenham in 2023 before his move was made permanent a year later. The Wales international has started all nine of Leeds’ Premier League matches this term and has an impressive average Sofascore rating of 7.02. No defender in the top-flight has scored more goals than him, while he ranks 14th for interceptions among defenders (9), 17th for blocked shots (5), and joint-fifth with Everton’s James Tarkowski for clearances. Only Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk (39) and Tarkowski (35) have won more aerial duels than the Leeds centre-back (34).