Leeds surged back to the top of the Championship after securing a dominant 3-0 win over Luton, extending their impressive home league run to six straight victories. The home side took control early, with Sam Byram scoring a stunning scissor-kick in the 10th minute, and Joel Piroe adding a second just before the break. A late strike from substitute Daniel James rounded off the win, propelling Daniel Farke’s team above Sheffield United on goal difference.
Luton, who had recently avoided the relegation zone with a win over Hull, struggled throughout the match and missed two clear opportunities in the first half. The visitors’ poor away form continued, as they suffered their fifth consecutive defeat on the road. Leeds started strongly, with Byram’s quick reaction to a blocked shot putting them in front, much to the delight of the Elland Road crowd.
The goal was followed by an emotional tribute to Gary Speed on the 13th anniversary of his passing, before Leeds nearly doubled their lead when Pascal Struijk cleared a Victor Moses shot off the line. Luton briefly threatened when Reece Burke headed wide from a cross, but it was Leeds who looked more dangerous, with Piroe setting up Brenden Aaronson, only for Wilfried Gnonto to shoot straight at Luton keeper Thomas Kaminski.
The home side extended their advantage just before halftime when Piroe pounced on a rebound after Kaminski saved Struijk’s header from a Joe Rothwell corner. Despite Luton increasing their press after the break, Leeds continued to control possession and create chances.
Ao Tanaka forced Kaminski into a save, and Piroe was crowded out after a good run by Aaronson. Luton fought to prevent further damage, but James, who had come on in the 69th minute for Gnonto, sealed the win with a well-placed lob over Kaminski following a precise long pass from Jayden Bogle.
Luton’s Shandon Baptiste tested Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier in stoppage time with a low shot, but Meslier made a crucial save. Bogle had the chance to add a fourth, but his close-range effort was blocked by Kaminski. The victory saw Leeds return to the Championship summit for the second time this season, as they maintained their impressive form.
