Daijiworld Media Network - Leeds

Leeds, Aug 19: A controversial late penalty converted by debutant Lukas Nmecha handed Leeds United a dream start to their Premier League return with a 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road on Monday.

The game looked destined for a goalless draw until the 84th minute, when James Tarkowski was harshly penalised for handling Anton Stach’s shot. Nmecha, who had been on the pitch for just six minutes, coolly slotted the ball past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, sending the home fans into raptures.

“It’s not a penalty,” protested Tarkowski after the match. “I was pretty convinced it was going to get overturned (by VAR). A bizarre moment and it cost us the point in the end.”

Everton introduced Manchester City loanee Jack Grealish in the second half, but their lack of attacking threat in the opening 45 minutes proved costly. Leeds, by contrast, began confidently, dominating the first half with 12 shots, though Pickford was only seriously tested by Joel Piroe’s effort.

Grealish’s entry gave Everton a spark, with Lucas Perri denying Carlos Alcaraz at the near post before Jake O’Brien headed the resulting corner wide. But Leeds held firm and were eventually rewarded with the decisive penalty.

“For a newly-promoted side, Elland Road has to become a fortress,” said Leeds manager Daniel Farke, who has previously struggled in the Premier League with Norwich. “It’s great to see the joy and pride in the supporters’ eyes. They care so much about their club.”

Leeds, who stormed to promotion last season with 100 points, aim to avoid the fate of all three promoted sides being relegated in the past two campaigns. With Sunderland also winning their opener against West Ham, two promoted clubs have started with victories — only the third such occurrence in Premier League history.

Tarkowski nearly made amends for Everton late on, but his header sailed over the bar, leaving Leeds with a perfect start to life back in the top-flight.