Leeds dominated the first half and went ahead with their first attack in the ninth minute through Crysencio Summerville after terrific work from Georginio Rutter. A misplaced QPR back pass on the touchline under pressure from Sam Byram fell at the feet of Rutter who made his way towards goal before delivering a perfect pass for Summerville who was free in the middle of the box to apply a neat simple finish.
The Whites then had a host of chances to add to their tally but without success and there was late drama in the closing stages of the second half as Illan Meslier pulled off a big save to deny Hoops striker Lyndon Dykes who then ended up in goal after Rs keeper Asmir Begovic was shown a straight red card.
A long ball from Pascal Struijk released lively substitute Patrick Bamford who beat Begovic to the ball and the Whites no 9 ended up on the deck, after which Begovic was shown a straight red card for being judged to have made contact. Begovic was furious and Dykes had to go in goal with QPR having used all of their substitutes.
The incident meant even more extra added time to the initial eight minutes but one goal for Leeds proved enough after 103 minutes at Elland Road.
Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a fourth win of the Championship season which took Leeds up six places to sixth.
1. Illan Meslier
8 - There when needed to make two saves, one of which was big. Distribution was good for the vast majority. Photo: George Wood
2. Luke Ayling
7 - Very influential in the first half, came under a little pressure in the second half at times and had help from Rutter. Photo: Danny Lawson
3. Joe Rodon
7 - Showed his pace in the first half and had things under control. After taking a serious whack in the second half wasn't as much of a force. Photo: George Wood
4. Pascal Struijk
7 - Dealt well with high balls in the first half, played some nice stuff. Found it harder in the second half but dug in. Photo: Ben Roberts Photo
5. Sam Byram
8 - Best player and most composed player on the pitch for Leeds for the most part. Dealt with the ball so well. Photo: George Wood
6. Ethan Ampadu
8 - A cut above before the break, clamping down on potential counters and showing his ability on the ball. Second half more scrappy but he still stood out. Photo: George Wood