Leeds United secured a vital 2-1 victory over West Ham United, capitalising on defensive errors to extend the visitors’ miserable start to the Premier League season. Early goals from Brenden Aaronson and Joe Rodon ensured a deserved win for Leeds, while Manuel Fernandes’ late strike was only a consolation for the beleaguered Hammers.
The hosts made a flying start at Elland Road, exposing West Ham’s fragility within minutes. A deep Jayden Bogle cross found Aaronson unmarked inside the box, and the midfielder reacted quickest to nod home as the visiting defenders stood motionless. Moments later, Leeds doubled their lead when Sean Longstaff’s corner found Rodon completely free just five yards out, his powerful header leaving goalkeeper Alphonse Areola helpless.
It was another reminder of West Ham’s set-piece vulnerability — their ninth goal conceded from a corner this season, more than any other side in the league. Under heavy rain, Nuno Espírito Santo could only watch in frustration as his defenders once again failed to perform the basics.
A serious shoulder injury to Ollie Scarles midway through the first half added to West Ham’s woes, forcing an early change. Substitute Callum Wilson offered some attacking threat, and Lucas Paquetá briefly thought he had pulled one back, only for his effort to be ruled offside after a lengthy VAR delay.
The second half saw Leeds drop deep, inviting pressure from a toothless West Ham attack that lacked conviction. Aaronson nearly added a spectacular second when his solo run from deep ended with a thunderous effort that clipped the crossbar.
Fernandes’ late goal provided a tense finish, but Leeds held firm to secure all three points. The victory highlights the growing confidence under Daniel Farke’s leadership, while West Ham remain second bottom — nine games into their worst league start in more than half a century.
Nuno faces a daunting task to turn the tide, with issues in confidence, defensive organisation, and mentality all evident in another disjointed display.
