A late Anton Stach free kick fired Daniel Farke’s Leeds United to an important opening day victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

With the deadlock still to be broken heading into the final few minutes, the midfielder’s scintillating strike sent the travelling Whites contingent into raptures and left the boss thrilled with the result.

“I am very happy,” Farke the media after the full-time whistle in the East Midlands. “It couldn’t be a better way to start the season.

“So, the first game is the first three points, especially an away win at a very, very difficult ground in a very competitive and tight game.

“Also, a first clean sheet under our belt and several new signings on the pitch. Like expected, it was a tight game. I think it was a game of different periods.

“We started perhaps a bit on the front foot, then Nottingham had a good period in the second half of the first half. I think both teams had situations and periods when they put pressure on the opponent.

“Both teams defended well. So out of the game, out of open play, there were not too many situations but the transition moments and, of course, the set pieces were always dangerous.

“You always had to be spot on. I think the reason that we won this game was that we defended in the end each of the situations really, really well, and on the other hand, Anton Stach converted one set piece situation also with a good strike and with a decisive goal.

“I think it was a very, very tight game. I am happy and delighted that we could convert also our nearly flawless pre-season to a perfect game day and a very important three points for us.”

The boss handed a debut between the sticks to club-record signing James Trafford after his summer switch from Manchester City. Discussing his keeper’s performance, the manager added: “I wouldn’t say it was a game where he had to be there with 10 unbelievable saves.

“He has this natural aura of confidence and calmness around him and this is exactly what we wanted. So with him, also, very happy with this game day.

“He played, of course, also a decisive part and if we return back to the dressing room with a clean sheet, then the goalkeeper was always excellent!”