SAD NEWS: The head coach of Stoke City had an accident while on his way to the training pitch, resulting in a dislocated leg. It’s uncertain how quickly he will recover from this injury.

Stoke City delivered an impressive performance, especially in the second half, to keep promotion-chasing Leeds United on their toes. However, despite their efforts, they left Elland Road without any points and faced another suspension for Ben Pearson.

Leeds asserted dominance in the first half, but it was Stoke who managed to take the lead with a breakaway goal following a long kick downfield. Daniel James, known for his pace, darted down the right flank, cut inside, and expertly found the far corner of the net.

Although Leeds applied pressure with saves from Daniel Iversen and a crucial goal-line clearance from Ben Wilmot, Stoke managed to stay in the game. They intensified their efforts in the second half, although they didn’t create many clear-cut chances to trouble the hosts. Lewis Baker and Tyrese Campbell tested Illan Meslier but couldn’t find the breakthrough.

Hopes for a dramatic comeback dwindled when Pearson received his second yellow card, marking his third career red against Leeds and earning his third suspension of the season.

Stoke made a final push as Josh Laurent attempted a shot in injury time, but lacked the necessary power to equalize. Although Stoke’s goal difference remained relatively unaffected, they now focus on upcoming matches that hold more significance for their season.

Steven Schumacher stuck with the same starting XI for the first time in two months, reflecting the challenge of managing a large squad. Stoke’s attacking play appeared restricted, resembling more of a 4-1-4-1 formation than the 4-3-3 used on Saturday.

Stoke initially struggled to assert themselves in attack, with Josh Laurent missing a chance from a weak header. However, hearts raced momentarily when Daniel Iversen almost conceded a penalty while attempting to control a back pass.

Leeds gradually increased pressure, with Patrick Bamford and Crysencio Summerville testing Iversen. Leeds’ breakthrough came in the 33rd minute when Daniel James scored, exploiting Stoke’s vulnerability on the break.

Stoke had their moments, notably a long-range effort from Lewis Baker and a header from Ki-Jana Hoever, but their primary focus seemed to be staying in the game. The challenge in the second half was to balance attacking intent with defensive solidity.

Schumacher made early substitutions, injecting energy into Stoke’s play. Tyrese Campbell and Ben Pearson’s introduction sparked a lively spell for Stoke, with Manhoef and Baker going close.

Pearson’s dismissal, however, disrupted Stoke’s rhythm. Despite a late flurry of chances, including a near miss from Laurent, Stoke couldn’t salvage a point. Iversen made crucial saves, and Stoke’s resilience was commendable against a formidable Leeds side.

Here are the player ratings from Elland Road:

Iversen: Made crucial saves throughout the game, including a late stop with his face. 8

Hoever: Maintained defensive discipline while occasionally joining the attack. 7

Gooch: Adapted well to left-back, making key tackles and providing crosses. 7

Rose: Demonstrated bravery with blocks and maintained a high defensive line. 7

Wilmot: Faced a tough test against James and made a vital goal-line clearance. 7

Burger: Covered ground in midfield and retained possession effectively. 6

Baker: Threatened with long-range shots and set pieces. 7

Laurent: Missed opportunities to influence the game more decisively. 7

Manhoef: Showed glimpses of his ability, particularly in the second half. 7

Junho: Had a quieter game but displayed skill on occasions. 6

Ennis: Worked hard but struggled with his touch in tight spaces. 6

Substitutes:

Campbell: Showed skill despite a heavy challenge. 6

Pearson: Received a second yellow card, impacting Stoke’s chances. 5

Vidigal: Limited impact after coming on. 6

Haksabanovic: Had little involvement in the game. 6