Leeds United picked up a much-needed three points with a 3-2 win at Sunderland.
Leeds United picked up a much-needed three points as they clung on for a 3-2 victory at promotion hopefuls Sunderland.Goals from Aaron Lennon, Brian Deane and Julian Joachim did the damage, with Sunderland replying through Liam Lawrence and Julio Arca.
The visitors took the lead at The Stadium of Light on the half hour as Lennon accepted David Healy's pass and fired home.
The Black Cats, who could have joined Ipswich at the Championship summit with a win, drew level on 43 minutes through Lawrence's penalty after Matthew Spring had fouled Damian Whitehead.
Just past the hour mark, Leeds were back in front when the veteran Deane was spring-heeled to head in Jermaine Wright's cross.
Stephen Elliott was denied by Neil Sullivan as the hosts chased another equaliser while Argentine ace Arca was thwarted by the woodwork.
The Whites forged further in front five minutes from time, with Wright again the provider as his cross was turned in by Joachim.
In injury time, Arca whipped in a free kick but Sunderland could not conjure up another goal in a tense finale.
