Leeds were in electric form as the Potters visited Elland Road on Easter Monday, surging into a 5-0 lead by half-time, to move within touching distance of a place back among the Premier League elite.
United dominated possession and created chance after chance throughout the match with Championship top goalscorer Joel Piroe netting four times during the opening 41 minutes, which included a 14-minute hat-trick.
Willy Gnonto added a sixth during the second half, while 16-year-old Harry Gray made his professional debut as a late substitute.
Depending on the result of Sheffield United’s clash with Burnley this evening, Leeds could be promoted today.
Here are the ratings.
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7. Ao Tanaka: 8/10
Never looked overly troubled. Only a couple of slightly sloppy moments, for which he quickly made amends. Helped keep control. | Getty Images
8. Manor Solomon: 9/10
Too good for Stoke's right hand side. Involved in numerous attacks, helped himself to assists. | Getty Images
9. Brenden Aaronson: 8/10
Tidy, industrious, linked up attacks well. Did his bit in a comfortable victory. | Mike Egerton/PA Wire
10. Willy Gnonto: 8/10
Looked desperate for a goal but did his bit to progress attacks for others. Then arrived at the right time to score a great goal of his own. | Getty Images
11. Joel Piroe: 10/10
Four shots, four goals. It was the perfect striker performance from the Dutchman. Finishing brilliance, movement, and linked up well. The coolest man in the promotion race. | Getty Images
12. Sam Byram (sub): 6/10
Solid, controlled, slotted straight into the side Photo: George Wood