adminLeeds United thrashed Newcastle United 4-1 at Elland Road tonight under the floodlights, but a familiar critic still found a reason to complain about a Whites star.
The Whites were in outstanding form during the first half, scoring three Premier League goals at Elland Road before the interval for the first time in more than 25 years.
Ao Tanaka’s deflected effort gave Leeds the lead before Jayden Bogle and Dominic Calvert-Lewin struck twice before the break to put the hosts 3-0 ahead.
Noah Okafor added a fourth shortly before the hour mark, before Newcastle grabbed a consolation goal in stoppage time to make it a 4-1 scoreline at Elland Road.
Don Goodman finds a reason to criticise a Leeds United star despite the big win
Leeds dominated proceedings for lengthy periods, although Newcastle did manage to create danger on the counter-attack on a couple of occasions before half-time.
Sky Sports commentator Don Goodman has claimed that Leeds goalkeeper James Trafford was fortunate and was rescued by the offside flag after making a clear mistake.
He was far from impressed with the Leeds goalkeeper’s display during the opening 45 minutes.
Goodman said on Sky Sports: “Three times now tonight he’s got away with it, James Trafford.
“Twice in the first half he was caught out by Wissa, and again there he completely misjudged the ball.
“The offside flag has saved him, but I’m not even sure he was offside.
It was a massive relief for the Leeds United goalkeeper, and certainly not for the first time during the match.
“I think Leeds United and James Trafford have got away with one there.”
James Trafford remains crucial to Leeds’ success
James Trafford’s quality with the ball at his feet and his willingness to sweep behind the defence have made a significant difference to Leeds’ style of play this season.
The defenders are able to maintain a high defensive line knowing that the goalkeeper is prepared to venture outside the box and handle balls played over the top.
That has enabled the entire team to push several yards higher, compress the pitch and maintain pressure in the final third. It can appear dangerous at times, but Trafford has made a considerable impact.
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