On May 15, 2019, Leeds United faced Derby County in the second leg of the EFL Championship playoff semi-finals at Elland Road. In a dramatic and intense match, Derby County won 4-2, overturning a first-leg deficit to progress to the playoff final with a 4-3 aggregate victory.
Key Statistics and Analysis
- Scoreline and Goal Timings:
- Leeds United: 2 (Stuart Dallas 24′, 62′)
- Derby County: 4 (Jack Marriott 45’+4′, 85′; Mason Mount 46′; Harry Wilson 58′ (pen.))
- Possession:
- Leeds United had 54% possession, while Derby County had 46%. Leeds’ control of possession allowed them to create numerous chances, but Derby’s effective counter-attacks and clinical finishing were decisive.
- Shots:
- Leeds United registered 19 shots, with 7 on target, reflecting their attacking intent but inability to convert enough chances. Derby County had 15 shots, with 7 on target, showing their efficiency in front of goal.
- Passing Accuracy:
- Leeds displayed a passing accuracy of 76%, completing 363 passes out of 476 attempts. Derby had a passing accuracy of 71%, completing 299 passes out of 420 attempts. Both teams showed a high level of intensity and pressing, leading to a balanced game in terms of ball distribution.
- Defensive Statistics:
- Leeds made 21 tackles compared to Derby’s 19, highlighting the competitive nature of the match. Both teams committed 13 fouls each, reflecting the physicality and high stakes of the game.
- Set Pieces:
- Leeds’ first goal came from open play, while Derby’s first goal resulted from a defensive error. Harry Wilson’s penalty was the result of a foul inside the box. Set pieces played a crucial role in adding pressure and creating opportunities.
- Individual Performances:
- Stuart Dallas was the standout player for Leeds, scoring both goals and providing a constant threat. For Derby, Jack Marriott made a significant impact off the bench, scoring twice, including the decisive goal. Mason Mount and Harry Wilson were also key contributors, scoring crucial goals to turn the tide in Derby’s favor.
- Tactical Overview:
- Leeds United employed a 4-1-4-1 formation, focusing on maintaining possession and pressing high. Derby County used a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to exploit the wings and counter-attack effectively. Derby’s tactical adjustments, particularly the introduction of Jack Marriott, proved decisive.
- Disciplinary:
- The match saw six yellow cards, four for Leeds United (Liam Cooper 26′, Kalvin Phillips 32′, Patrick Bamford 36′, Gaetano Berardi 78′) and two for Derby County (Bradley Johnson 40′, Tom Lawrence 90′). Gaetano Berardi was sent off for a second yellow card, further complicating Leeds’ efforts.
- Corners and Offsides:
- Leeds United won 8 corners compared to Derby’s 3, indicating their sustained offensive pressure. Both teams were caught offside three times, reflecting disciplined defensive lines and attempts to exploit gaps.
Summary
Derby County’s 4-2 victory over Leeds United in the second leg of the EFL Championship playoff semi-finals was a testament to their resilience and tactical effectiveness. Despite Leeds taking the lead through Stuart Dallas, Derby responded with goals from Jack Marriott, Mason Mount, and Harry Wilson, overturning the first-leg deficit.
Leeds’ inability to maintain their defensive solidity and the impact of Berardi’s red card were critical factors in the outcome. Derby’s clinical finishing and effective counter-attacks proved decisive, securing their place in the playoff final with a 4-3 aggregate victory. The match was a thrilling and dramatic encounter, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of playoff football.
