Leeds United extended their 2024 undefeated streak with a 2-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle.
Leeds United’s latest Championship victory sent Daniel Farke’s team back to second position in the rankings. It helped them to keep their distance from both Southampton and Ipswich Town.
This was the Whites’ second visit to Plymouth in recent days. The last time they met, they won the FA Cup replay 4-1 in extra time.
Leeds came out all guns blazing against Swansea City last time out. They had Argyle on the back foot early on and did not stop attacking them.
It was unsurprising when the visiting Whites went ahead after 10 minutes. Georginio Rutter’s magnificent lofted ball was expertly controlled by Willy Gnonto. The young Italian flicked it around the defender, onto his left foot, and smashed it home off the post.
Unlike Swansea, Leeds did not capitalize on their early advantage. They maintained control of the game but scored no additional goals in the first 45 minutes.
Plymouth showed greater determination in the second half. They created dazzling periods of play that frightened the visitors. Nonetheless, the Whites weathered the storm.
Georginio transitioned from providing to scoring at the 72-minute mark. A long punt from keeper Illan Meslier was controlled by his fellow Frenchman. Ruuter bore in on the Argyle goal and fired an unstoppable shot for his sixth goal of the season.
Resurgent Gnonto continues to shine for Leeds United.
Among the good performances, one stuck out to Yorkshire Evening Post reporter Graham Smyth.
That player was the always-impressive Italian Gnonto. Smyth of the YEP gave him an 8/10 for his performance against Plymouth.
“The manner he took the goal demonstrates how confident he is playing. For the majority of the afternoon, Leeds’ best passing option. Worked back to help defensively.”
In a hard-working, all-around performance against Plymouth, Gnonto demonstrated the promise and ability that positioned him as a major target for Premier League clubs in the summer.
According to WhoScored’s match data, Gnonto completed 25 passes (78%), one of which was a vital pass that resulted in a chance. He also completed both of his dribbles and the single tackle he was called upon to make. He also made one clearing and an interception.
Gnonto’s opening goal was his fifth in five games since returning to the team following Dan James’ injury. Now that he is here, he will be a difficult man to dismiss.
