Aaronson Finishes Off "Poetry"

Aaronson's Winner Sends Leeds Top of the Championship at New Years

Brenden Aaronson's late strike against Derby County not only secured Leeds United's position atop the Championship table heading into 2025 but also drew poetic praise from manager Daniel Farke, who hailed it as his early pick for goal of the season.

The American midfielder's composed finish came at the end of an intricate team move, with Sam Byram initiating the sequence before Manor Solomon and Joel Piroe combined to set up Aaronson for the decisive goal. The victory, Leeds' eighth in their last ten matches, demonstrated both their promotion credentials and Aaronson's continued renaissance under Farke's guidance.

"I'll put it straight away into my poetry album," Farke enthused post-match BBC. "It was a perfect team move and Brenden also came up with a perfect calm finish." 

The German manager's praise highlighted not just the aesthetic quality of the goal but its importance in a match where Leeds had previously been frustrated by Derby goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom's heroics.

The goal marked Aaronson's seventh of the campaign, placing him second in Leeds' scoring charts behind only Joel Piroe. It's a remarkable turnaround for the American international, whose future at Elland Road seemed uncertain following Leeds' relegation and subsequent summer of change. Having started the season with both promise and frustration – scoring an equalizer against Portsmouth on opening day before missing a crucial chance in the same match – Aaronson has emerged as a key figure in Leeds' promotion push.

The victory at Pride Park showcased Leeds' dominance, with Derby failing to register a shot on target in the first half. While the hosts showed more ambition after the break, forcing Illan Meslier into action from Curtis Nelson's header, Leeds' persistence ultimately paid off through Aaronson's well-worked winner.

"Perfect team performance, perfect away performance," Farke reflected Yahoo. "These nights are the best. Tight win, late goal, clean sheet and is perfect for the mood and spirit." The result moved Leeds two points clear of Sheffield United, who had briefly claimed top spot following their 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion earlier in the day.

For Aaronson, the goal represents more than just three points – it's the latest evidence of a player who has rediscovered his confidence and form at a crucial time in Leeds' promotion campaign. With his intricate play and growing collection of decisive moments, the American midfielder is proving instrumental in Leeds' bid to secure a return to the Premier League.