Leeds United took a huge step towards sealing a play-off place this weekend.
Leeds United headed into Saturday’s clash with Sheffield Wednesday knowing a victory would take them another huge step towards a top-six finish, and so it proved as the Whites ran out 1-0 winners courtesy of a Chris Wood goal.
The New Zealand international has been in brilliant form this season but this goal could be the most important yet as he dealt a hammer blow to the Owls’ own hopes of finishing in the play-off places.
While Wood’s goal and a Rob Green penalty save took the headlines, the performance of Leeds’ back-line should not be understated.
There has already been plenty of praise for Luke Ayling, while Pontus Jansson never disappoints, but his fellow centre-back Kyle Bartley also shone on the day.
| Effective Head Clearance | Effective Clearance | Duel Won | Aerial Won | Interception Won | Ball Recovery | Dispossessed | Mins Played | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyle Bartley | 9 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 90 |
By the end of the match, the Leeds man had managed a superb 22 effective clearances (13 with his feet and nine with his head), nine duels, six aerial battles and three interceptions.
The Leeds loanee also won four ball recoveries and he was not dispossessed all afternoon.
In short he was immense, and if he continues to play like this between now and May, Leeds may well return to the top flight after far too long away.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
