Leeds United manager Daniel Farke recorded his first avoidance of defeat against Manchester United as the sides played out an entertaining 1-1 Premier League draw at Elland Road. The result extended Leeds’ unbeaten run to seven matches.

Although the teams have shared the same division in just four of the last 22 seasons, the rivalry remains intense, and a lively crowd in the winter sunshine provided a charged atmosphere.

Leeds started the match energetically, but it was United who nearly opened the scoring early. Matheus Cunha’s brilliant volley was ruled out for offside in the build-up.

The first half was largely a midfield battle, with chances at a premium. Leeds came close when Anton Stach’s teasing cross found in-form Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose header glanced off the far post. Lucas Perri, Leeds’ goalkeeper, made a stunning reaction save to deny Leny Yoro’s flicked header from close range, keeping the hosts level.

Late in the half, Cunha and Patrick Dorgu missed chances for United, but Leeds’ defensive solidity — only two sides have conceded fewer first-half goals this season — kept the scoreline level. The first half ended with United yet to register a shot on target.

After the interval, the pattern continued, with Senne Lammens keeping out Gabriel Gudmundsson’s near-post effort. The breakthrough finally came after a rare lapse from United defender Ayden Heaven, who was beaten to a loose ball by Brenden Aaronson. The American slotted home, marking the eighth of his last nine goals at Elland Road.

The goal extended United’s unwanted streak to 15 successive league away games conceded — their worst run since 1986. However, the Red Devils responded immediately. Moments after entering the pitch, Joshua Zirkzee set up Cunha, who beat his countryman Perri as the ball trickled over the line to level the score.

In the closing stages, both sides had chances to snatch victory. Benjamin Sesko fired wide for Leeds, while Cunha hit the post for United. Joel Piroe curled an effort over at the other end, and the spoils were ultimately shared.

The draw means Leeds have won only once in their last 20 Premier League meetings with Manchester United, but they remain eight points clear of the relegation zone. Ruben Amorim’s men have won just one of their last five league games, and although their unbeaten run against promoted teams now stretches to 26 matches, they missed the chance to move into the top four.