Daniel Farke ‘fumes at Joe Rothwell’ after Leeds incident v West Brom
Daniel Farke was enraged at Joe Rothwell in the first half of Leeds’ clash with West Brom on Saturday, according to Don Goodman.
Junior Firpo had given his side an early lead, latching onto Dan James’ cross in the ninth minute at Elland Road, adding to the idea that the Leeds full-back should be signing a new contract this summer.
It was far from a comfortable victory for the Whites, however, with Tony Mowbray’s team having plenty of chances to hit the back of Leeds’ net and troubling Illan Meslier in between the sticks.
With six minutes remaining until half-time, Darnell Furlong finally broke Leeds’ defence, heading home at the back post to equalise on 1 March, and Farke’s anger only worsened.
Daniel Farke frustrated with Joe Rothwell’s lack of accuracy
James was stealing in behind the Baggies’ defence, and all that was needed was a simple pass from Rothwell, only for the midfielder to drive the ball straight into the arms of Joe Wildsmith.
Speaking via Sky Sports Football [1 March, 12:56pm], Goodman said: “Daniel Farke down below us is fuming, it came as a result of a forward ball giving possession away.”
A second goal could have sealed the game in the first half, but having failed to take the chance and then allow Furlong to score, the game was far more complicated than anticipated for the Whites.
Leeds prepared for twists and turns in bid for Premier League promotion
A draw would have seen Leeds take a six-point lead at the top of the Championship table, at least until Sheffield United kick-off against QPR on Saturday, but there are plenty of twists and turns left in the campaign.
The Blades are not going to give up the chase for the title, with Burnley only another two points behind them, so Leeds cannot afford to slip up at this point in the campaign.
| Championship standings | Points |
| 1. Leeds | 76 |
| 2. Sheffield United | 70 |
| 3. Burnley | 68 |
Farke will be keen to avoid a repeat of last season, missing out on the automatic spots to Leicester City and Ipswich Town, and losing 1-0 to Southampton in the Championship play-off final.
The defeat saw Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter leave Elland Road, and with several players starring again this term, clubs in the top tier will come calling if there is no promotion.