Barnsley 0 Leeds United 2: Whites cruise to overdue derby away win at Oakwell

The duo struck in a first half that was totally dominated by the visitors. Barnsley improved marginally after the break but Thomas Christiansen’s still coasted to victory.

That Saiz and Alioski should get the goals was fitting, the pair having been part of a fine midfield display that left the home side chasing shadows.

After away defeats this year at Oakwell, Huddersfield Town and Sheffield Wednesday, this was a welcome return to winning ways against White Rose opposition on the road - exactly 12 months since claiming a 2-1 triumph at Rotherham United.

Leeds went ahead on 23 minutes, Saiz being afforded the freedom of midfield to dart forward and drill a low shot that Adam Davies made a hash of trying to keep out.

United’s advantage was doubled on the stroke of half-time when Alioski collected a pass from Luke Ayling before curling an exquisite shot into the corner of the net.

As for Barnsley, it wasn’t until the introduction of Ryan Hedges from the bench that they posed a threat.

He provided a couple of crosses that simply begged to be converted but it was Gaetano Berardi and Liam Cooper who managed to beat the Reds to the ball.

TALKING POINT

Barnsley have had the Indian sign over their neighbours from up the M1 at Oakwell over the past decade or so.

Only Brian McDermott of the United managers since Kevin Blackwell claimed all three points at the home of the Reds - and even then it came during a run-in that eventually saw the south Yorkshire club drop out of the Championship.

Such a run is why many in the 4,500 strong travelling army of fans travelled more in hope than expectation that their team’s rotten run of five defeats in six visits would end.

From the opening exchanges, however, it was clear Leeds were very much up for this as Thomas Christiansen’s men produced the best response to the midweek hammering at Wolverhampton Wanderers.