With all three survival rivals in action on Sunday, Daniel Farke’s side had an opportunity to lay down a marker against European-chasing Brentford, who had seen their impressive campaign stutter in recent weeks.
The hosts created the game’s first clear-cut opportunity when Michael Kayode cleared Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s header off the line after Caoimhín Kelleher was caught out by Jayden Bogle’s initial cross.
However, those hoping this would lead to a series of goal-scoring opportunities would be disappointed, with neither Kelleher nor Karl Darlow significantly tested in the opening half-hour.
Lukas Nmecha looked to take matters into his own hands with an eye-catching shot from distance, which was comfortably held by Kelleher.
In truth, it was a largely forgettable first 45 minutes, with both defences firmly on top as the HT whistle blew.
Leeds returned from the break with a second-half defensive record that left a lot to be desired, as only West Ham United (33) had conceded more than their 32 league goals after the break this season.
Mathias Jensen had a chance to make it 33 when he latched onto Igor Thiago’s header forward, but could only hit the side netting.
The Whites were also struggling to find that killer instinct upfront, with tame efforts from Brenden Aaronson and Ethan Ampadu in a second half largely following the same patterns as the first.
Ao Tanaka was introduced with 68 minutes on the clock, and he almost made an immediate impact when his deflected shot sailed wide.
Pascal Struijk then rose highest to flick on Anton Stach’s corner, but no other Leeds player was on hand to divert an effort goalbound.
Ultimately, neither side could find that elusive breakthrough in a PL clash that will not live long in the memory.
It is a result that moves Farke’s side four points clear of the bottom three, while Keith Andrews’ men have now only won one of their last six games across all competitions (D3, L2), but their lofty position of seventh in the table means European qualification is still firmly within reach.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United)
Catch up on the match here
