FA Cup roundup: Bamford wondergoal helps send Leeds past Peterborough

Patrick Bamford’s moment of excellence illuminated Leeds’ smooth progression in the FA Cup as they cruised to a 3-0 victory against League One side Peterborough.

Given only his second start of the campaign, Bamford responded impressively to manager Daniel Farke’s changes, delivering a stunning strike shortly after half-time to double the advantage provided by Ethan Ampadu’s first goal for Leeds. Captain Ampadu then sealed the win with a late goal.

Farke praised Bamford’s world-class goal, emphasizing its importance for Bamford’s confidence and fitness level. The match saw several changes in Leeds’ lineup, with only five survivors from the previous Championship success against Birmingham on New Year’s Day.

Leeds dominated the early stages with three clear chances in the opening seven minutes, including two Bamford headers and a save from Peterborough goalkeeper Fynn Talley. Ampadu broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, despite controversy over the timing of a free-kick, leading to complaints from Peterborough players.

The second half saw Bamford’s brilliant volley from a long Ampadu pass, securing one of the finest goals in his career and strengthening Leeds’ control over the match. Ampadu later rose to head in Dan James’s corner in the 90th minute, sealing the victory.

Meanwhile, Luton and Bolton played out a goalless draw at Kenilworth Road, with Luton unable to break down the high-flying League One side. In another game, League Two Wrexham defeated League One’s Shrewsbury 1-0, with Thomas O’Connor scoring the only goal to secure Wrexham’s place in the fourth round for the second successive year.