Leeds went ahead in the 27th minute through a clinical finish from Willy Gnonto after a lovely move and one-two with Crysencio Summerville who laid on a perfect through ball. At 19 years and 60 days old, Gnonto became the third youngest Italian scorer in Premier League history and also the youngest Leeds top-flight scorer since James Milner in April 2004.
West Ham, though, equalised in the 45th minute after the intervention of VAR led to an Irons penalty for Pascal Struijk's foul on Jarrod Bowen and Paqueta coolly converted the spot kick. The Hammers then went ahead less than one minute into the second half as a misplaced pass from Brenden Aaronson was cut out by Gianluca Scamacca who punished Aaronson with a perfect first time finish from the edge of the box that went in off the post.
Yet Leeds drew level with 20 minutes left after a tremendous finish from Rodrigo who rifled home a low drive from the edge of the box after a lay off from substitute Jack Harrison. Both sides then had chances to bag a winner but a thrilling contest ended in a 2-2 draw which took Leeds up to 14th place. There were then emotional scenes at the full-time whistle as second-half substitute Mateusz Klich was given a guard of honour by United’s players as he left the pitch in tears, all but confirming his exit from the Whites.
Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a thrilling night at Elland Road.
7. Marc Roca
5 - Hasn't had the impact he was making prior to the break. Unable to put together the passes Leeds need. Effort was there. Photo: George Wood
8. Crysencio Summerville
6 - Picked up a good assist but played in a midfield role that didn't look that well suited to his abilities. Frustration started to tell before he was replaced. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
9. Brenden Aaronson
4 - A few promising moments aside, struggled to give Leeds what they needed in attack. Squandered a big chance. Culpable for West Ham's second. Photo: Stu Forster
10. Willy Gnonto
8 - Leeds' best attacker, once again. Their best player at present. Terrified West Ham at times. Took his goal really well. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
11. Rodrigo
7 - A man for moments. Can spend long periods out of the game then comes up with a wonderful strike. Almost got two. Dangerous when Leeds find him. Photo: George Wood
12. Jack Harrison (sub)
8 - A couple of poor touches and passes aside, he helped swing the game for Leeds. Energy, an assist, created another big chance. Photo: Michael Regan