Farke thrilled Leeds clinched 'precious' win over West Ham

Daniel Farke was delighted that Leeds United clinched a "priceless" three points as they earned a 2-1 victory over struggling West Ham.

Brenden Aaronson and Joe Rodon struck in the first 15 minutes for Leeds, who were in total control throughout, despite Mateus Fernandes' 90th-minute consolation for the visitors.

This was Leeds' first Premier League victory against a London club since beating Chelsea 3-0 at Elland Road in August 2022, ending a 16-game winless run against sides from the capital in the competition (D2 L14).

And, it was the earliest that they have netted two goals in a top-flight match (15 minutes) since April 2004 against Leicester City at Elland Road (13 minutes).

Leeds had more shots (13 to West Ham's nine) and accumulated 1.6 expected goals (xG), while also hitting the woodwork, and Farke noted his pride in their performance.

"I'm delighted and happy with the three points," Farke told Sky Sports. "It's difficult to explain how we were standing there after the last three games with just one point in our hands.

"[This time], we got it over the line. We had more dominant and controlled performances in the season, but we had a difficult week with illnesses and injuries; many players were struggling, players were just back from long-term and short-term injuries. You could feel it was a difficult week.

"We showed passion and bravery in the beginning and played aggressively. We scored two goals; the structure with the ball was a bit wide today and not perfect. We corrected it at half-time, way better in the second half.

"We had fighting will, passion and spirit to get it over the line. The nerves began again, but it was also good the confidence to bring it over the line. It was a priceless three points for us.

"We spoke about set pieces; they have conceded a few. I don't want to blame the opponents. We showed aggressive football and bravery to press to bring the ball as quick as possible."

Leeds' defeat to Tottenham in their last home match ended a 23-game unbeaten league run at Elland Road, and they followed up that result with a 2-0 loss away at Burnley.

They responded in style, though, with Aaronson netting their earliest Premier League goal (2:57) at home since November 2022 (Rodrigo against Bournemouth, 2:24).

Rodon, meanwhile, has scored two goals in his last three home appearances after managing just one in his previous 47 with Leeds, and he highlighted the importance of quickly returning to winning ways at Elland Road.

"It was important to show a reaction after last weekend. It was important to come out the traps early, and I'm delighted with the three points," he told Sky Sports.

"I think every team is difficult in this league. I'm a bit frustrated to concede at the end, but overall delighted with the three points.

"It was important to keep that momentum and make it difficult for teams to come here."