Leeds United’s initial entry into this season’s Emirates FA Cup competition was highlighted by Patrick Bamford’s “world class” goal as the Whites easily defeated Peterborough United.
Many predicted that in-form Peterborough would join the list of lower-league opponents who had humbled Leeds in the cup, and they gave it their all in the first half-hour, but it was Daniel Farke’s side who proved the more clinical, winning 3-0 and advancing to the fourth round draw.
Ethan Ampadu’s first two goals in a Leeds shirt came despite him playing in the back four rather than his customary midfield role, but the conversation after the game was all about Bamford’s magnificent strike that made it 2-0 early in the second half.
Bamford kept his starting spot in the team after scoring his first goal of the season the previous week, and he justified his manager’s faith with a strong performance and a memorable goal in which he took a long ball down on his chest and then smashed a volley into the corner of the net from more than 20 yards out.
“The whole world will praise him (Bamford) after this goal,” Whites manager Farke stated.
“This is a world-class goal.” I’m at a loss for words.
“I’m thrilled for him because he deserves it.” And it’s critical that he regains his fitness level. It’s critical for him to get into a nice groove and regain his confidence.
“It’s also important that he works hard for the team, is good at pressing, and can hold the ball and link play.”
“I would have taken a rebound from two yards because goals are always priceless for the confidence of the striker, but yes of course if he scores in such a manner – in such a world-class way – that’s even better.”
Farke was pleased with how his squad handled the tie despite fielding numerous peripheral players.
“I’m pretty pleased that we were able to win this game comfortably, with three goals and a clean sheet,” he continued.
“A team in the top half of League One is always a team that can compete in the Championship.” In previous weeks, Peterborough has had only victories or draws. They used their best starting lineup in their home game, and they won.
“I’m also glad we were able to rest a few players and give some valuable minutes to players who needed them, but we still wanted to win.”
“Change is never easy when there are so many. Ethan and Archie (Gray) took turns playing different roles. But we were incredibly focused, determined, and greedy to win.
“We wanted to score the third goal because we knew it would be difficult to win this game.” But we’ve reached the fourth round.”
Leeds made a solid start, with Bamford headed narrowly wide and Gray forcing a brilliant stop from home keeper Fynn Talley in the first five minutes.
