Sky Sports pundits Jobi McAnuff and Jermaine Beckford believe Mateusz Klich’s penalty was the turning point for Leeds United in their win over Stoke City.
The Whites cruised to a 5-0 win over the Potters at Elland Road, with Klich’s spot-kick just before half-time setting them on their way to victory.
Helder Costa, Liam Cooper, Pablo Hernandez and Patrick Bamford ensured it was a rout for the hosts after the break as they moved a step closer to promotion back to the Premier League.
Despite being dominant throughout though, United had failed to break their struggling opponents down until they were presented with the opportunity just before half-time.
Tommy Smith’s rash challenge on Costa gave Leeds the chance they needed after it seemed they would remain level at the break, and McAnuff feels it gave them the springboard to go on and complete their victory.
“It’s a game-changing moment, pivotal,” McAnuff told Sky Sports.
“His (Smith’s) decision to lunge in a couple of minutes before half-time, after such hard work to try and keep it level.
“You can see from Klich how calm and cool he was, and that sort of reflected Leeds’ performance, for me. Very efficient, dominated all of the game, and when the chances came - they stuck them away.”
On Klich’s penalty, Beckford added: “(You’re) very nervous. Especially at Elland Road, as well.
“The expectation levels, you’re expected to score. It’s a free shot at goal from 12 yards out. It’s tough.
“You have to have mental strength about you to be able to block out the surroundings. Don’t get me wrong, there weren’t any fans there today, but he definitely felt the pressure of every single Leeds United fan today.
“Cool as a cucumber. He was so calm and relaxed in his approach, and in his finish as well. To be able to put it, not into the corner of the goal either, that shows some guts.”
