Leeds United 2 Sunderland 0
Leeds United re-booted their flagging European challenge with an unconvincing win over Sunderland in the this afternoon.
David O'Leary's side, who had lost their last two matches, enjoyed an early slice of luck at Elland Road as Sunderland defender Jody Craddock turned the ball into his own net after just eight minutes.
Cameroon international Patrick Mboma wasted an excellent chance to equalise for the visitors with nine minutes remaining, and Robbie Keane, the Leeds substitute, made him pay just two minutes later when he was left unmarked in the area to slot past keeper Thomas Sorensen.
Leeds stay in sixth place but are now just three points behind both fourth-placed Chelsea and fifth-placed Newcastle United, although Newcastle have two games in hand on their rivals.
Fourth place is good enough for the Champions League qualifying round and fifth position guarantees UEFA Cup football next season.
The team finishing sixth would only qualify for the UEFA Cup if either Arsenal or Chelsea win the FA Cup.
Sunderland, who had striker Kevin Phillips retire at halftime with a reported groin strain, remain in 15th place, five points clear of the relegation zone.