Shay Given praised Leeds United’s second-half tactical adjustment after Dominic Calvert-Lewin rescued a 1-1 draw with Brentford at Elland Road on Sunday.
Leeds had been second best before the interval and fell behind when Kevin Schade produced an inventive finish in the 40th minute. Daniel Farke responded by switching to a back four at half-time, introducing Harry Wilson and Ao Tanaka for Brenden Aaronson and Jaka Bijol.
The change gave Leeds greater control and allowed them to apply sustained pressure after the break. Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was forced to save from James Justin, while Leeds also created openings through Noah Okafor and Daniel James.
Given, speaking as a Match of the Day pundit, commended the alteration for transforming Leeds’ performance and giving them a stronger attacking presence. The hosts continued to push forward and eventually found their reward with 12 minutes of normal time remaining.
Lukas Nmecha helped create the equaliser by turning away from his marker before sending the ball across goal, allowing Calvert-Lewin to bundle it over the line from close range.
Brentford almost restored their lead immediately, but James Trafford produced an excellent save to keep out Igor Thiago’s header. Leeds pressed for a winner late on, although the visitors held firm to ensure the points were shared.
The result leaves both sides with four points from their opening two Premier League matches, while Calvert-Lewin’s late strike capped a much-improved second-half display from Leeds.
