Leeds United got their Championship campaign off to the best possible start with a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Elland Road.
The only strike of the afternoon – which came from Luciano Becchio after 17 minutes – remained the difference, but the gulf in class was there for all to see.
For the home side, they will harbour hopes of a successful season, while Wolves have some serious questions to answer if they are to bounce back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
With that in mind, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of action between the two sides.
Leeds statistics:
Shots 12
On target 7
Possession 48%
Corners 8
Fouls 10
Wolves statistics:
Shots 6
On target 1
Possession 52%
Corners 8
Fouls 16
Was the result fair?
A resounding yes, with the statistics saying more than I ever could. That's not to say that Leeds played Wolves off the park, but they just looked the better outfit. The combination play between Ross McCormack and Becchio was a highlight for the home side, while Wolves look like they will struggle to score goals this season. The away side did improve in the second period, although they never looked like finding the back of the net.
Leeds's performance
Eight players made their debuts for Leeds this afternoon – and Neil Warnock will have been delighted with his side's performance. El Hadji-Diouf brought a nice experience and balance to their forward line. Meanwhile, Rodolph Austin ran all afternoon.
Wolves' performance
It was a case of same old same old for Wolves. They have managed to keep the bulk of their squad together, but their defence looked shaky, while they never really carried a threat in attack. Steven Fletcher looks certain to depart the club before the end of August, and you do worry where the goals are going to come from.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Rodolph Austin: The 27-year-old joined the club from SK Brann in the summer, and on this performance, Leeds have got themselves a proper player. The Jamaican did not give Wolves a moment of rest, and will play a key role for the club this season.
Referee performance
Anthony Bates had a solid 90 minutes. He distributed yellow cards when needed, but let the game flow in the correct places.
Biggest gaffe of the game
This honour goes to Kevin Doyle – who twisted and fell while unmarked inside the Leeds area in the second period. All-in-all, it was a bit of a horror show from the Irishman. He really needs to have a big season.
What next?
Leeds: Next up for Leeds is a trip to Blackpool on Tuesday. A very tough encounter, but it should give them an idea of where they are.
Wolves: Wolves will attempt to get on the board when they welcome Barnsley on Tuesday. Three points is a must.
Matt Law
