By OkayGoal 
Brenden Aaronson kickstarted Leeds United’s third Premier League victory of the season.
Aaronson scored his first goal of the campaign as Daniel Farke’s men defeated West Ham United 2-1 at Elland Road on Friday. The U.S. men’s national team attacker played 87 minutes as the Lilywhites moved up to 13th place in the league table.
It was a fast start for the hosts as Aaronson propelled Leeds United ahead after three minutes. Noah Okafor’s original header from denied by Alphonse Areola but Aaronson was quickest to react and slam home the rebound.
Not long after taking the lead, Leeds United made it 2-0 through Joe Rodon’s close-range header. Sean Longstaff’s cross was headed home by the veteran defender after he wriggled free from Lucas Paqueta in the box.
Mateus Fernandes pulled a late consolation goal back for West Ham United in the 90th minute, but it was the closest that the Hammers would get to a comeback.
For Aaronson, it marked his first club goal since March 29th against Swansea City. It was a vital goal too for Aaronson, who entered the night with zero goal contributions on the season.
“I am really happy with the goal and I am happy with the group and the atmosphere,” Aaronson said in a club interview postmatch. “It was amazing to score early. It was a great atmosphere and I am proud of the team.”
Leeds United will aim to make it back-to-back victories when it travels to Brighton & Hove Albion on November 1.