For much of the match, Brentford looked in complete control, leaving the Gtech Community Stadium feeling like a grey and uneventful afternoon.
But Dominic Calvert-Lewin had other ideas.
The Leeds striker’s goal — his fourth in as many games — rescued a point for the visitors and reignited talk of his potential for England.
A Striker Back in Form
Calvert-Lewin, 28, has been on a hot streak that few would have predicted at the start of the season.
Serenaded by the Leeds supporters to the tune of Last Christmas, he continues to prove himself as a crucial figure for Daniel Farke’s side.
The free transfer from Everton, brought in to replace Patrick Bamford, seemed risky at first, given their injury histories.
Yet Calvert-Lewin is already scoring all types of goals and currently sits on five for the campaign.
Farke was effusive in his praise: “He was very unlucky the last couple of years.
Right now he delivers on a weekly or twice-weekly basis.
It’s remarkable. We’re blessed to have him. For me, he’s one of the best English strikers.”
Farke’s Tactical Tweaks Pay Off
Leeds’ recent switch to a 5-3-2 formation has brought stability and grit, especially in high-pressure games against top-flight teams like Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool.
At Brentford, the game was initially flat, but Farke’s tactical adjustments, including the introduction of Wilfried Gnonto and a shift to a back four, turned the tide.
Gnonto’s cross eventually found Calvert-Lewin for the equalizer, showcasing Farke’s game management skills.
“It feels like the team could have rewarded themselves with a few points,” Farke said.
“But happy with a point and the performance. The lads showed resilience and belief.”
Leeds’ Survival Formula
This point at Brentford, a side that had won five of seven home games, suggests that Farke’s system could be key to Leeds’ fight against relegation.
The 5-3-2 formation provides more defensive solidity while allowing Calvert-Lewin freedom to operate deeper or wider on the pitch.
Farke remains pragmatic, emphasizing stability over spectacle.
“It’s a really valuable point on the road for a newly promoted side,” he said.
“The feeling was still that we could have won the game.”
Brentford’s Offensive Struggles
For Brentford, the match highlighted over-reliance on key players like Igor Thiago, who has scored half of the team’s 22 league goals, including five penalties.
While they tried to attack via the wings through Michael Kayode and Dango Ouattara, they struggled to create consistent chances, only managing eight shots compared to Leeds’ total.
Manager Keith Andrews noted some tactical progress, particularly on the right flank, where Jordan Henderson was given more license to advance.
This strategy led to Brentford’s only goal, proving that innovation can still yield rewards for the home side.
The Road Ahead
For Leeds, the focus remains on survival, with Calvert-Lewin proving to be a linchpin in the squad’s success.
For Brentford, identifying additional goal sources beyond Thiago will be crucial.
As Farke’s men continue their fight to stay in the Premier League, the resurgence of Calvert-Lewin offers hope — and perhaps, whispers of an England call-up.
With performances like this, Leeds’ striker is reminding everyone that he’s far from finished.
Match Facts
Brentford XI (4-2-3-1): Kelleher 7; Kayode 6.5, Collins 5.5, Van den Berg 6, Hickey 6 (Henry 6.5 61’); Henderson 7, Janelt 6 (Yarmoliuk 6 80’); Ouattara 6.5, Jensen 6 (Ajer 6 80’), Lewis-Potter 6.5 (Damsgaard 6 61’), Thiago 6
Leeds XI (3-5-2): Perri 6; Rodon 6, Bijol 5.5 (Gnonto 73’), Struijk 6; Bogle 6.5, Tanaka 6 (Aaronson 73’), Ampadu 7, Stach 6, Gudmundsson 6 (Justin 89’); Okafor 6.5 (Harrison 90+2’), Calvert-Lewin 7.5
Goals: Henderson 70’, Calvert-Lewin 82’
Attendance: 18,866
Managers: Keith Andrews 6, Daniel Farke 6.5
Referee: John Brooks 7
What’s Next?
Leeds will look to build on this resilience and keep Calvert-Lewin fit, while Brentford must diversify their attacking threats to climb the table.
The Premier League season is far from over, and players like Calvert-Lewin are reminding everyone that momentum can change in an instant.
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