Football: Chris Wood scores again in Leeds win

New Zealand striker Chris Wood scores the opening goal against Derby County. Photo / Getty

A Chris Wood header delivered Leeds United into third in England's football Championship with a 1-0 victory over Derby County.

Leeds squandered numerous opportunities, including 11 corners, before the All Whites striker headed Pablo Hernandez's corner past goalkeeper Scott Carson on half-time.

Wood met Hernandez's delivery at the near post and glanced it in, making it the eighth time this season he has scored the first goal in a game.

📷 Chris Wood's towering header late in the first half 1-0 pic.twitter.com/Yu6nHgYDM3

— Leeds United (@LUFC) January 13, 2017

Their margin of victory may have been greater during the first 45 minutes, but Liam Bridcutt, Souleymane Doukara and Kyle Bartley all missed opportunities.

Darren Bent thought he had levelled for Derby in the 50th minute but the goal was denied due to handball. Derby had Bradley Johnson sent off in the closing stages for two bookings.

Chris Wood has now scored 14 goals in 25 league apps this season, beating his total of 13 lge goals in 15-16, having played 11 games fewer pic.twitter.com/QjoaCEeoez

— Sky Sports Statto (@SkySportsStatto) January 13, 2017

Leeds move to 48 points, six off the competition lead with 20 of 46 matches remaining in the season. They are four points behind second-placed Newcastle United.

Derby remain seventh, two points behind Sheffield Wednesday in sixth.

The third to sixth placed teams challenge for one Premier League spot at season's end.
Leeds last appeared in the Premier League in 2003-04.