Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhüttl praised his side after putting an end to their search for a first three points of the campaign.
Armando Broja's second-half goal was all that separated the sides, but in truth it could have been a greater margin than the 1-0 win, with a poor Leeds side rarely threatening all afternoon.
The victory at the eighth attempt created a happy atmosphere around St. Mary's ahead of a period of winnable games for the south coast club.
'It was important for everybody'
“It is absolutely good. The way we took the three points was to a very deserved one I think,” said Hasenhüttl after the match. “It was a good performance from everybody.
“A clean sheet, up front we created a lot of chances. We had a few big ones, finally then a beautiful counter is what gave us the lead. I must say overall it was a deserved win.
“It was important for everybody, they showed that they can make the counter-attack and that’s a fantastic first start for Broja immediately scoring a goal is fantastic.
"Only scored once, but I thought the game was very good.
"I think we had a few good chances. Armando did a good job today, Reddy [Nathan Redmond] also up front.
"We tried with a new couple, to be more dangerous. I think the plan worked quite well."
Broja impresses
Hasenhüttl reflected on an impressive performance from the Albanian international as he became Saints’ youngest ever player to score on his debut Premier League start for the club.
Broja, 20, was a handful throughout and could have added to his tally as the hosts dominated Marcelo Bielsa's side.
The match saw Broja's first Saints start since the Carabao Cup tie at Sheffield United, in which his performance was criticised by boss Hasenhüttl.
Since then, the striker has impressed whilst being away on international duty and scored the winner as Albania beat Hungary last week.
“He has good speed, good finish. He has everything that a good striker needs.
“I tried to give the players a chance. They [Mo Elyounoussi and Broja] have played and scored in the international break, it always gives them confidence. Hopefully we’ll keep on going.
'He has everything'
"I also had the feeling when he has the ball that he is a threat. He has the speed to go over a player and have a clear shot.
"There were too other good scenes where he can score, but I must say it was a good performance.
“I think we had good work against the ball. [Leeds] had a few problems with injuries, Bamford wasn’t there, Raphinha wasn’t there so they were lacking a bit of quality up front but you still have to defend quite well and I think we did in a very committed way.
“It’s a good start to these decisive weeks and we have no time to lean back.”