Chris Wood 2nd goal – 67 minutes
Just minutes after levelling the tie, Birmingham found themselves again behind. Having been the better side for most of the game, the Blues had looked most likely to win it.
Yet, as has usually been the case under Zola, they were back in a losing position. Following their goal, attacking intent dropped slightly, allowing Leeds to create a rare opportunity.
Substitute Kalvin Phillips attacked down the right wing, playing a clever 1-2, whilst bursting into the box. As the ball returned to him, the midfielder slid a pass across goal towards Wood.
As with the first goal, Wood benefited from a failed defensive slide, resulting in a simple tap in to restore his side’s lead. Taking his personal tally for the season to 25.
Had Birmingham remained level for a longer period, the game’s general trend of them being on top may have continued.
However, Leeds’ ability to re-take the lead so quickly put an end to the home side’s ascendency and ultimately earned three more vital points.
The match was finished off in the 81st minute by another substitute, Alfonso Pedraza, who finished coolly after a perfectly executed Pablo Hernandez pass.
Birmingham will feel unfortunate to come away with nothing, but Leeds again showed, as they did last week, that they can grind out results without playing well.
Monk was forced to watch this one from the stands due to a touchline ban, and whilst he won’t be thrilled with the performance, his team’s ability to win in tough situations will be pleasing.
Featured image: All rights reserved by Zoltán Majlinger
Receive weekly football news and updates to your mailbox
