Joe Rodon produced a towering display at Elland Road as Leeds United secured a crucial 2–1 win over West Ham United. The Welsh defender was immense in both boxes and capped his performance with a first-half goal that set Leeds on their way to three valuable points.

Rodon’s header came in the 15th minute when he met a Sean Longstaff corner with perfect timing to double Leeds’ lead after Brenden Aaronson’s opener. It was a textbook centre-back goal and a moment that highlighted Leeds’ growing threat from set pieces under Daniel Farke.

The goal was also symbolic for Rodon personally. After a mixed start to the season and competition for places at the back, this was the kind of performance that underlines why Farke continues to trust him as a leader in defence.

Beyond his goal, Rodon was excellent defensively. West Ham asked questions late in the game, but Rodon and his partner at the back stood firm, winning duels and clearing danger when needed. His positioning and communication were key as Leeds protected their advantage and saw the game out with greater composure than in recent weeks.

West Ham’s attempts to find a route back into the match...