Leeds United all but secured their place in the Premier League next season with a 3-1 victory over already-relegated Burnley on Friday.
Goals from Anton Stach, Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin lifted Daniel Farke’s side nine points clear of the relegation zone, with just four games remaining for their closest rivals.
Leeds, managed by Daniel Farke, bounced back from last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea at Wembley, which denied them a first FA Cup final appearance since 1973.
The result moves Leeds up to 14th place in what has been an impressive first season back in the top flight, as they and Sunderland buck the trend of newly promoted sides struggling to survive.
In contrast, Burnley’s difficult campaign was confirmed with relegation marking their third drop from the Premier League in as many seasons. The Clarets had narrowly missed out on the Championship title to Leeds on goal difference last term.
The club parted ways with manager Scott Parker on Thursday despite his strong record of securing promotion from the Championship with multiple clubs.
Leeds made their intent clear early on, taking the lead after just eight minutes when Stach fired a low shot past goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
The home side dominated proceedings and sealed the win with two quick goals after the break. A flowing move was finished by Okafor after a clever backheel from Calvert-Lewin set up Jayden Bogle.
Okafor has now scored six goals in his last seven league games, playing a key role in Leeds’ push for survival. Calvert-Lewin, meanwhile, notched his 13th goal of the season, converting from close range after Dubravka parried Ao Tanaka’s effort.
Burnley managed a late consolation in interim manager Mike Jackson’s first game in charge, as Loum Tchaouna struck late on.
Despite the defeat, the result confirmed Burnley’s relegation, while Leeds edged ever closer to securing their Premier League status for another season.