Leeds 2-0 Millwall ... Snodgrass brace tops off week of tributes to Speed

Leeds United as a club can be very proud both on and off the field as they sought to pay their respects to a club great and servant of twelve years throughout what has been a difficult week for many, following the passing of Gary Speed. A midweek 0-4 thumping of Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, including eleven minutes of chanting, from the eleventh minute, in honour of Speed's shirt number was a credit to the fans, players and management. Saturday's home game against Millwall bore more importance than merely the three points, as everyone was eager to pay their personal respects at Speed's professional home.

An emotional afternoon began with footballing matters firmly pushed aside as Speed's midfield teammates, who formed with him one of English football's greatest quartets, Gary McAllister, David Batty and Gordon Strachan led tearful tributes through a minutes applause and laying of wreathes. Millwall Manager, Kenny Jackett laid a wreath at the South Stand end to warm applause, mirrored by Simon Grayson at the Kop end.

The Game

Simon stuck with the personnel and formation used against Forest and just as in Nottingham in midweek, the players seemed as eager as the fans to do Speed proud and started the game in a positive manner. Leeds garnered much of the early possession although struggling to create opportunities. Luciano Becchio's presence was causing some issue for Millwall from set pieces and the Argentine headed narrowly wide from a whipped Aiden White corner. 

Much of the threat for Leeds, as is usually the case, came from the flanks. White, tried out on the wing in midweek retained that position and his running power was causing trouble for the right hand side of the Millwall defence. Pugh also linked well, and the pair proved a danger. 

It wouldn't come as a surprise as the prime chance of the half for Leeds was fashioned by Snodgrass. The winger poked the ball carefully beyond their left midfielder and wheedled beyond two more inside the box, showing sublime close control. A sidestep to the right allowed him to dink the ball and the cross/shot was cleared off the line by a combination of two Millwall men. The ball eventually found a way to Pugh on the edge of the area, but a left foot strike cannoned off another Millwall body.

Leeds fans raucously adhered to this week's 11th minute, eleven minute chant of Gary Speed's name, with all inside the ground standing and many swinging their scarves - it was quite a spectacle.

Millwall were threatening. Darius Henderson was a massive target for Millwall's attacking play and Kisnorbo had his hands full. The busy Michael Brown was often on hand to sweep up his knock downs, and on the whole Leeds managed to cope with his aerial nous in open play. 

Henderson did, however, force a full stretch save from McCarthy who required all of his 6ft 4" reach to put the ball round the post from a corner.

The Leeds midfield had wrestled control, but were struggling to create clear cut chances, though they were dealing admirably with picking up on second balls and halting Millwall breaks. The 4-5-1 in general allows a greater handle on midfield play. Michael Brown and Howson in particular were trying to dictate what did happen in the middle of the park. So, when these two both left the pitch limping (with Howson now on crutches according to Grayson), it was a worry, especially after Tuesday's showing of the 4-5-1 formation. 

Elland Road seemed a little hushed as Lloyd Sam and Andy Keogh came on, with Snodgrass moving inside behind Becchio, Sam going right side and Keogh joining Becchio up top. These changes only added to what had been a slightly disjointed first half with little being created by either side.

During half time, Speed's wife, Louise made the unimaginably difficult visit to the Bremner Statue to take in the sea of memories - shirts, scarves, flowers and photos left by hundreds of fans over the course of the past week.

Leeds tweaked at half time and stuck Snodgrass and Sam on the left and right wings respectively, with Pugh coming into the centre of midfield and White dropping to left back. This gave Leeds the ability to threaten more from wide positions, and aimed to get Lloyd Sam to keep outside and run to the byline on his stronger foot.

Millwall had a free-kick saved well by McCarthy early in the second half but Leeds gained in confidence as time passed. Sam, who Grayson had told to do the number eleven shirt he wore proud at half time, was carrying the Leeds threat. being on his favoured foot allowed him to run more directly at the full back rather than preferring constantly to cut inside. Snodgrass clipped a ball across the box to Sam at the back post who fired acrobatically wide. 

Lloyd followed up his second half endeavor with an effort which saw him take the ball past three Millwall men and strike with his left from the corner of the "D" against what appeared to be a Millwall hand. The Lions man went down holding something-or-other in an attempt to disperse fears that the handball claim might have led to a penalty.

Leeds again had the most of the midfield battle with Pugh sweeping up behind Clayton. Adam's performance undoubtedly improved as a result. He was competing well, finding space and breaking forward nicely, as shown by a free-kick won on the edge of the box.

Snodgrass stepped up amidst several expectant shouts of "...come on Snoddy" and the Scot duly delivered. He promptly swept the ball home into the opposite corner, at pace, and with terrific curl, right into the top left of the Millwall goal - Mildenhall had no chance. He ran over to the South Stand arms aloft, and held his "Speed 11" black armband aloft, it was a strike the Welshman would have been proud of.

Minutes later, Sam shimmied down the right and whipped in a low cross. Snodgrass stooped 8 yards out and beat his man to head home, despite a hand from Mildenhall. Great goal. 

With Snodgrass recently, it hasn't just been about the 6 goals in the last 6 games, but his all round effort and contribution all over the pitch. Snoddy took on the Captain's armband on Saturday and was quite literally everywhere and involved in everything - he relished the leadership role he was given in Howson and Brown's absence. He'd float in from the flank to help the team pass through the middle and dictate play but he'd be there to provide from out wide when most necessary. His closing down was also tireless, and priceless, as he and others forced Millwall to hurry and make errors.
 

Pugh, White, Clayton, Connolly and Snodgrass had all but nullified Millwall and were nipping in and stopping attacks on almost every occasion. 

In the last quarter of the game it was Keogh who impressed most. He was finding more space in behind Millwall as they pushed to try and force something further up the pitch. His running and link up play was exceptional, and if not for Snoddy's selflessness could have provided the Scot with a third after a deft flick on the turn. Being the team player that he is, Snodgrass squared, only for Keogh to narrowly miss making contact when sliding in.

Sam was next to provide, this time Becchio, with a golden opportunity. The Argentine bustled ahead of his man and poked a toe at the ball. This time Mildenhall got down impressively to turn the ball to safety. 

Moans and groans followed as Elland Road willed Snoddy on for a third when Becchio froze with Snodgrass open inside the area. He instead laid the ball to Sam who curled towards the bottom corner, only for Mildenhall to save again, ruining his planned tribute to Speed.

To Sum Up

Not the best performance creativity-wise but it was an encouraging midfield performance, given we'd both reverted to the 4-4-2 where we have struggled at times to assert our game in the middle of the park, and Howson and Brown had been taken off injured.
 

Becchio took another step back to fitness and caused issues for the Millwall centre backs and was denied his goal by a great save. His hold up play was intelligent and good, as we have come to expect - he just needs his sharpness back as his touch was lacking more than usual.

Kenny Jackett's post match interview, with no mention of their performance or result showed just how little football did matter to most Yesterday afternoon.

The Support

The atmosphere was great throughout with all sides of the ground paying a fitting tribute to Speed and showing just how much he will be missed. Hopefully his family and all those who knew him can take heart from the week's support from all quarters, while the football fixture list pounds on with selfish disregard for such events.

Football's culture shift: since we've been gone...

Last night's game more than any other in the recent past served as a stark reminder as to how much football at the highest level in this country has changed since Leeds last graced the Premier League with their presence. Having been outside of the big money bubble for over half a decade, and delving as low as the Third Division; one-off cup encounters had served to remind the faithful of what we were missing - and to the surprise of ourselves, as well as the whole footballing community, we managed to stack up against, and outplay on occasion "Big Four" sides, despite our lowly status at the time.

Leeds' latest encounter was, however, a wake-up call. It wasn't the result or the performance that was worrying but the real gulf in quality between a Manchester United second eleven - one that was worth over 70M in transfer fees, which is staggering in itself, and a current Whites first eleven - a good Championship side, was clear for all to see. The road back to the top is a very long one indeed.

The downward spiral of Leeds United and the culture shift in the Premier League where money is no object makes one wonder if it is possible for a prudently run club, without huge infrastructure to compete on a season to season basis with one such as Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal or Spurs, especially when lacking such large stadia, corporate facilities and brand pulling power or the backing of some form of Oligarch or an Arabian Royal Family.

When Leeds do return to the top flight, it is currently impossible to fathom anything above mediocrity and functionality - much along the lines of Stoke, Everton, Villa, or Bolton. Perhaps Fulham's foray into the Europa League is the most a side without a long established off the field income, and Premier League income, or a spend-for-fun benefactor can muster. Despite reluctance to accept otherwise, Leeds United will not be a sustained force in the Premier League for years to come, without first owning our assets, and secondly greatly expanding our brand and year-round services.

Whilst being stuck in the Championship may not be the correct time to be doing so, and selling off key playing staff without reinvestment is not acceptable, building off the field at some stage is completely necessary. Premier League money is significant but still unable to cover the cost of even being a mid table Premier League side, as Everton's Bill Kenwright will attest to. Hardly amongst the big spenders, Everton have been forced to secure their club's finances through borrowing against future television revenue streams, as the banks have at last said enough is enough.

Even the Football League is succumbing to the "Sky factor" with increases in parachute payments and an influx of wealthier owners making achieving in the Championship an increasingly daunting prospect. The likes of West Ham and Leicester's spending, whilst not always guaranteeing success, is certainly a sign of the times - where spending £14M in a transfer window, in the Second Division does happen. Luckily, for the most part the Football League remains a bastion of tradition, and such spending is founded on the gamble of getting the big bucks upon Premier League return, and not yet on business sense that is viable in the long term.

Returning to the Premier League is every fan's Holy Grail, but the return, to play against more of the major players in club football will also signal the start of a monetary battle Leeds and its fans are currently unprepared for. It seems to compete and survive in Leeds' current state, in the Championship, player sales are necessary to turn a profit, combined with "top-four" ticket prices. The step up will only see further hikes in pricing, and success on and off the pitch will demand that.

The club's wait to truly compete with the big boys in top flight football since Leeds last appeared there will be a long one and many years combined with heavy investment both on and off the field is necessary before the Whites can be an established side once more. So much work would still need to be done, and that's hoping the Championship escape occurs in the near future.

Patience is a virtue, unless we bag an Oligarch!

What Bates Said ... March 30th 2011

Ben Fry: First let’s start with loan signings. Before the window closed last Thursday, Jake Livermore joined from Tottenham. Were you pleased to make the capture from another Premier League club? 

Ken Bates: Well again, as I said last week, I doubted if we would make any more signings because it looked unlikely but in the event, Simon was successful in getting Livermore and he just adds to our midfield strength at a time when we are looking at possible injuries and suspensions as we go into the last eight, 10, 11 games of the season. So yes, it’s a good deal.

BF: At the same time, Ramon Nunez and Adam Clayton have gone out on loan do you see them having a more long term future and they need football at this stage?

KB: Well I think the thing is, at the moment we have seven strikers and Nunez is a Honduran international and that’s not fair on him playing against Gateshead, Lincoln and these kind of two-bob reserve teams on a very poor pitch. So it’s better to go out and play first-team football – and Clayton of course needs more experience so again, I think Simon has done a good job there.

BF: Now with so many players out on international duty this week, have you been sat there with your fingers crossed that they all come back fit and healthy?

KB: Well of course they’re all bloody meaningless friendlies and as we have already seen on TV, quite a few players have come back injured or whatever and in fact they’re damaging their respective clubs’ run-in to the end of the season. So, I’m agreeing with Ferguson when he says most of these friendlies are useless anyway and they’re only money-making jobs. They’re not for football, they’re for money.

BF: You mention there are either eight, 10 or 11 games left this season. Four of those will be at home and they actually turn out to be the four sides directly below Leeds in the Championship. Does that mean that fate is in the club’s own hands?

KB: It is indeed. Win those four games and we’re definitely in the play-offs because they are all six-pointers. But of course the four games away from home – it’s funny how the fixture list turned out that three of the four are in London, plus Derby. But they’re all important. We’ve simply got to reach the play-offs and maybe even nick the second place although that’s becoming increasingly difficult.

BF: Early start against Forest on Saturday. Another six-pointer however you look at it. Do you think the early start makes any difference for a game of this magnitude?

KB: No, I don’t think so. It just reduces the suspense by three hours (laughs). Hopefully, if we win on Saturday, we can turn around to the rest of the league and say ‘Catch us if you can!’. But I must say, it’s very encouraging because as of last night we had nearly 29,000 tickets sold, which is a tremendous tribute to our fans.

BF: Couple of months ago it looked like Forest were going to the side to beat for second place – are you surprised by how their form has dipped?

KB: Well, I mean, the manager (Billy Davies) has been saying for some time he thinks he has a small squad and obviously injuries and suspensions  have caught up with them. Long may it continue.

BF: I know you have got a busy week ahead of the game on Saturday. In Oslo tomorrow night for a Leeds on the Road event with Peter Lorimer. Are you looking forward to meeting the fans?

KB: Of course, I mean… what actually happened was we had to go to Norway on business and I just thought it would be an ideal opportunity to double up so we’re looking forward to meeting 80-100 members in the Hard Rock Cafe in the middle of Oslo and have a great evening. Of course, Peter Lorimer, Billy Paynter, the usual Stix and Lorna will be there as well as Shaun and myself. And of course Susannah.

BF: Is that because Billy Paynter is suspended, so is available?

KB: Yeah. We still pay his wages so he is coming over to meet the fans.

BF: And talking of meeting the fans, Simon is going to be at Lorimer’s Bar next Tuesday as well. Do you think it’s important that the fans get a chance to put their questions to the manager, even at this crucial stage?

KB: Well the whole thing is, every game is a crucial game and every stage is a crucial stage. Simon’s the manager and therefore he will be there, answering and explaining his views, plans and thoughts.

BF: Many players when they come to the club are surprised how many opportunities the fans do get to meet the players. Is that part of your philosophy of running a club?

KB: Well I think so. I was thinking about this regarding the Select Committee queries on this, that and the other. When you actually think about it, first of all we have got nearly 39,000 members, we are the fourth biggest most visited website in the country from a club point of view, we have 65-70 regional members’ clubs including overseas, we try to attend every regional members’ club at least once a year, all the letters we get are answered, in fact Susannah is on the phone as we speak talking to somebody about Wembley ticket allocations. Yes. Frankly we don’t need self-appointed, self-important representatives of nobody except themselves in supporters clubs. We like to deal with the people themselves. Direct, talk to them, not through people who presume an importance which they don’t have.

BF: Now talking of support, more than 700 have booked already for the members’ end of season event which takes place (interrupted)

KB: Well it’s absolutely fantastic isn’t it. Let’s hope it’s a great evening after we play Burnley. 700 yes, and it’s still rising. So, who knows, we might even touch 1,000. That will be a record for Leeds. Absolutely fantastic.

BF: And of course if you would like to book for the members’ end of season event you can call 0871 332 1919 and choose option two. And now on Monday there is going to be and upgrade for the online tickets services which means the ticket office will be closed, but in the long term what will this upgrade provide to fans?

KB: Well the whole thing we have been working on this for some time actually. To change over, well I don’t understand the technicalities, I’m too old but to change over we have to shut the whole system down for 24 hours, which we are doing. But it really means that when that reopens on Tuesday, members, fans or whatever can booked almost anything they want from a shirt, to a coach ticket to lunch in Billy’s Bar, to anything. And of course, they can do it 24 hours a day, seven days a week which is a quite fantastic facility for the fans. So well done to the IT boys and Katie Holmes who spent all this time organising it and I’m very pleased for them and I’m obviously very pleased for the fans.

BF: And that new ticket service, online service will be available from Tuesday April 5 at leedsunited.com

KB: Before you go. Let’s remind people that if members haven’t renewed yet, they can still renew up to April 30 online only. Our new extra time memberships are still available until April 8 so it’s getting close.

As usual, thanks to WACCOE and TSB's Fax Man for the use of the transcript.

What Bates Said ... 23rd March 2011

Thom Kirwin: First of all, the Sheffield United game on Saturday. A shock defeat, how were you feeling after the game? 

 

Ken Bates: Well, like every other Leeds fan, I was both shocked and disappointed. I gather the team turned up and had a good view of watching the game but didn’t contribute much to it. Very disappointing. Three points were there for the taking and it wasn’t good enough.

TK: Did it surprise you, the performance, considering what the team had been performing like in recent weeks?

KB: Yes, of course. As I said, Sheffield United are in the relegation zone and we should have shoved them further down there. We could have been up with joint-second or joint-third. So it’s very disappointing. Still, we’ve eight games to go and it’s up to the players to put the last eight behind them and look at the next eight.

TK: The results on Saturday elsewhere were forgiving I would say for Leeds. Six points the gap to second place (Interrupted)

KB: Well that’s what is so annoying because all the other clubs were faltering and we should be taking advantage of it instead of faltering ourselves. And, as I say, very disappointing. But that’s the past. We have a break, time to recharge our batteries, look back in sorrow and plan to go out with a bang in the last eight games of the season.

TK: The way the results have been going, do you think second spot is still achievable?

KB: It’s still achievable but it’s getting more difficult. If we do get second spot, we want to do it without having to rely on QPR having points deducted. But of course, we all hope they will be. I remember QPR voting for our 15 points, so 20 off of them would be gratifying.

TK: As far as the final eight games is concerned, how do you assess Leeds’ run-in?

KB: Well the last four games at home are the next four clubs below us, so it’s certainly a chance to consolidate our play-off place but we really want to do a bit better than that. Three of the last four away games are in London, which is unusual and interesting. It’s not going to be easy but other clubs are dropping points every week. That still gives us an opportunity to catch up on them. We have to concentrate and tighten up our defence. We spent a lot of money, relatively speaking, on our defence this season and yet we have conceded more goals than every other club in the league, except those in the relegation spaces. It’s disappointing.

TK: The loan window closes tomorrow. Is there any chance of anything happening as far as players into the club is concerned?

KB: I think it’s unlikely, not through the want of trying. But the trouble is the big clubs are now picking up injuries and of course because so many clubs are in the relegation battle, they are loath to release their players just in case anything happens to them and they are having injury problems. As I say, it’s not through the lack of trying but it looks now that we will have to go with what we have got.

TK: Which is a pretty much fully-fit squad, bar Patrick Kisnorbo now…

KB: Fully-fit squad and a large one. And a talented one when they switch on their game. I’ve suggested to Simon that he makes the whole squad sit down and watch the QPR game. We beat them 2-0 and we got a clean sheet, so they can realise how good they are and how the next eight games should be, not easy for them but very positive. Go out of the season on a high.

TK: Another bit of news that has happened in the last couple of weeks, the Burnley game – obviously lots of interest in Leeds’ run-in – that’s been moved. The kick-off has been brought forward and it has been shown on Sky. I think that’s three out of the last four home games now on TV.

KB: Yeah, I’m sorry for the fans about that but we had to fight very hard on this one. First of all, they wanted to move it to a Friday night, we said no. Then they wanted to move it to Monday, either midday or in the evening. We fought against that because apart from the fact our police bill would have doubled, it’s also highly inconvenient to our out of town fans who have booked. I can assure fans we are not happy about going on TV because we get £100,000 fee but it usually costs us between £200,000-£250,000 in lost income. So believe you and me, we don’t want TV. We have had more than our fair share this year. We think it’s unfair to the fans so midday on Saturday was the least objectionable time we could agree.

TK: Also this week, Leeds United have around seven players on international duty. Will you be keeping right up-to-date with their progress?

KB: Ermmm, not particularly. We wish them all luck but they are all playing for different countries aren’t they so we have to be careful who we support and who we don’t. Wish them all well, hope they do well for their countries and hope they come back uninjured – that’s the important thing. If they are good enough to play for their countries then they are certainly good enough to play for Leeds United and make sure the last eight games go well.

TK: It’s great for Robert Snodgrass to take on Brazil at the Emirates Stadium where he has already scored there for Leeds this season. And Max Gradel as well, in the Ivory Coast squad. It has been a great turnaround and transformation for Gradel over the last 12 months.

KB: Yeah, Mad Max is now becoming a legend in his own lifetime. Just wish sometimes he would steady himself a little bit before he shoots. He has got us 14 goals this year. I think he could have got us 20 but still, he has got eight games to go. He could still get another six for us and get us up to automatic promotion. But we wish them well. Max, Snoddy, Bannan, Nunez.

TK: Also, off the pitch, the East Stand redevelopment is well underway. What’s the latest you can tell us on the progress being made?

KB: Well it’s total chaos at the moment because as far as the offices are concerned, they are all living out of their suitcases like the starfish (?) staff, living out of suitcases, like displaced persons. The noise is now going to be absolutely phenomenal. We have got jack-hammers and banging and crashing going on so they can’t possibly work. So we have got to disperse them to temporary areas throughout the stadium so if fans don’t get their usual good service, I’ll ask you to bear with them because they are working under terrible constraints at the moment. The work is going well. There’s a real ‘get it’ attitude which is so great to listen to from the contractors. It’s not a ‘can’t do’ it’s a ‘can do’, which is fantastic and we are confident we will get the whole thing done in time. A bit more inconvenience because they are now going to start the piling in front of the East Stand after the Notts Forest game but we have to do that pile to get in to do the new entrance to get the thing done on time. So if there is inconvenience, just remember the staff are doing their very best to make sure it’s back and on time for the start of next season. And I must say, the interest in the new facilities are phenomenal. I think we have already sold a third of our new boxes. And not just upgrades. These are new people who don’t come to Leeds, like what they see and are coming in and training up, so it’s looking good. Everything is looking good so thanks to the fans, the season tickets we have now sold 11,200 for next year, compared with 13,000 this year. So we are obviously going to beat that figure. Our membership renewals are coming in. It’s just great. All we need now is a few nice wins between now and the end of the season and we’re on a high. If we do get to the play-offs, well it’s about time we won it.

As always, courtesy of WACCOE and TSB's Fax Man 

Jake Livermore brings midfield presence, Howson suffers ten day injury

Simon Grayson looks to have added at long last that much sought after midfield key, in the strong and combative role. Bradley Johnson has shone this season in his deeper lying role, using his undoubted physical attributes to carve himself a nook in the Leeds United starting eleven. However a side lacking Johnson had been lacking someone who was able to fulfill the role of breaking up opposition plays and often left the midfield prone to being over run, so Jake Livermore's loan - until the end of the season including any possible playoff campaign, is a necessity.
 

Livermore scores the equaliser in Wembley Cup friendly against Barcelona

Spurs' website touts him as a "strong, combative midfielder" and at 6ft 2" he certainly has the potential to be that midfielder we've lacked at times this season. This might not be all the central midfielder can bring to the side however. Here's a few Ipswich Town opinions:

"His work off the ball is immense and he has decent composure on it as well. He played a sublime ball through for the first goal after beating a couple of players in the middle. Also looks to have a bit of pace about him and he always shows for the ball which is nice to see for a central player."

"Impressed me today. Looked strong on the ball. Made some tackles. Good passes. Think he will become a permanent fixture in the midfield."

"Livermore was excellent. Always looking for the ball and showed a good work rate as well as creating the chance for the first goal."

His apparent all round game and work rate are most certainly encouraging traits.

Further to covering for a lack of Johnson (who is one yellow card away from having to serve a two game ban), Livermore's addition could also give Simon a more substantial midfield able of coping with the 4-4-2 formation better than previous personnel have managed so far this season. Grayson also has the option of using both Livermore and Johnson in a holding role, which would on paper seem the pairing most able athletically to play shield to the back four - and with the above reviews on Livermore's all round game, competition is sure to be rife in Kilkenny's starting berth in addition to Bannan's presence in the squad.

After the abject Sheffield United performance, it also gives Simon the option of completely shaking things up. With Howson and Johnson in particular failing to impress (albeit with Howson out wide right for a fair portion) a Kilkenny, Livermore coalition infront of the defence with Bannan in behind Becchio might not be as unlikely as we'd expect, even given Simon's steadfast trust in his players ability to bounce back. What would be most likely I'd suggest could be a Livermore-in-for-Johnson swap with Howson holding onto his position "in the hole" and Bannan retaining his Kilkenny ousting role - after he managed to be the only outfield player to come out of the Blades game with any credit. Then again, Simon will no doubt do something completely different, he's a challenging manager to second guess.

Whatever happens to our lineup in the upcoming Forest clash, Leeds fans must surely be encouraged by this addition for the remainder of the run in and what it has done is ensured we're catered for in the midfield, and throughout the squad as a whole should the worst happen regards possible injuries and suspensions.

Howson's Hamstring

The above paragraph is immediately noteworthy following news of a "could be ten days" injury to Jonny's hamstring, preventing him linking up with the England U21's for a game against Iceland this weekend. Obviously, that ten day period would mean a race is on for fitness before nest weekends Forest fixture. Grayson's recent additions look ever more timely.

Sheffield United 2-0 Leeds ...

For the sake of completeness here are my thoughts on the game: less desire than Sheffield United, less hunger, outfought, unacceptable and unwatchable. Are these the traits harboured by promotion winners?

Leeds 0-0 Ipswich Town ... Leeds out of ideas against determined Town

The post Swansea recovery mission saw Leeds take two wins from two and hurl themselves remarkably back into automatic promotion contention. Saturday's game against a resurgent Ipswich under Paul Jewell was undoubtedly earmarked as the toughest of our immediate opponents after the Liberty Stadium defeat, and this proved to be the case as the Tractor Boys managed to stifle and frustrate Leeds for the entire 90 minutes, leaving Jewell happy with the performance and Simon Grayson philosophical about what many saw as two points dropped amidst slip ups amongst our promotion rivals.

The game was characterised by periods of scrappy play with no team taking definitive advantage for much longer than a couple of long punts down field that constituted many attacks - it wasn't one for the neutral to enjoy, or any fan inside Elland Road for that matter. Jewell's side harried and closed down Leeds possession to a point where Leeds were devoid of any real movement or creative thinking, being forced time and again to punt long up field to the stranded Paynter who had little chance against their two old fashioned centre halves, who towered above him and others and were completely dominant all game.

For about twenty minutes of the first half in fact, Leeds were penned back and forced into counter-attacking football, struggling to get any of the ball and often beaten to the loose ball in midfield by livewire Bullard amongst others. Rather than a barrage of criticism that followed on post match phone ins regarding certain players, it was more managerial nous from Jewell that shut Leeds down, and we hardly deserved the win, despite many papers claiming we had a host of chances, they were nothing like as clear cut as they may have been portrayed.

It is surprising more sides haven't come to Elland Road and played in a similar fashion. Gradel and Snodgrass were dealt with effectively, with neither offered time or space to be able to deliver, the only success was as a result of Gradel's pace or real individual skill from one or both of them. Often they'd have two or three men to beat before being able to get a ball into the box or get a shot away on goal. When teams get in and around Leeds with urgency and afford no room, a panic seems to set in. Despite having absolutely no success punting up field, players remained almost stationary as if in the knowledge that any attempt to play the ball would be futile, such was the success of Town's determined hassling.

The Game

Simon opted to keep striker Billy Paynter in the eleven following a persistent performance on Tuesday night, where he grabbed his first goal in a Leeds shirt. Neil Kilkenny also did enough to earn himself a spot in the eleven, following on from what were his two best performances of the season in the Doncaster and Preston outings.

The first ten minutes of the game was all Ipswich as Leeds fruitlessly chased the ball and struggled to get a grip. Within 15 seconds Priskin was played in, through the left hand side of the Leeds back line - predictably where McCartney should have been, although the Hungarian striker contrived to drag the shot well wide. This did not provide the wakey wakey call it should have done.

Kieran Dyer also played a part in the early minutes, his pace surprisingly still evident and causing issue even for Lichaj at times. He managed to spin in midfield and carry the ball to get dangerous low cross in. Andy O'Brien met it with a stooping header to clear. 

The first key save of the game came from Marton Fulup in Town's goal. Gradel, who carried Leeds' main threat as per the past two months, came flying down the left hand side of the pitch gradually coming inside. Anybody who saw his strike to open the scoring against Doncaster knew what he had in mind. He hit the ball from thirty yards across Fulop who tipped the ball round the post at full stretch for a Leeds corner. Despite having little of the opening possession, we were again shown that we have the players with sufficient individual talent to open play up and create a chance for themselves.

Gradel was involved again when he got on the end of a well picked Lichaj cross, after good work from O'Brien with Lichaj playing a one-two down the right hand side. Max took the ball down expertly, showing good composure by not flashing at the cross first time. He proceeded to twist round his man towards the byline with his shot being blocked comfortably and a corner forced.

Billy Paynter had little luck with balls being pumped anywhere in his vague direction but when he did receive one that gave him a chance, he caught Gareth McAuley in the side of the head with a flailing arm. There was no malice in it, and the referee called it right, although McAuley was left needing five stitches in his ear. Annoyingly for Leeds, it was the only thing he called right all afternoon.

Billy was again involved after McCartney was released down the left hand side, striding past the pacey Carlos Edwards. His low ball towards the near post was met by Paynter sliding in, under the close attention of an Ipswich man, who forced Paynter further past the near post than he would have liked. The angle was too tight and the stab home only found the advertising hoardings, the wrong side of the near post for Leeds.

Perhaps Leeds' most glaring chance fell again to the lone man up top. The cross came in from the right and in a central position perhaps seven yards out, Paynter put the ball over with the goal at his mercy. His leap was mistimed and the ball therefore slightly out of reach. The most clear cut opportunity so far, where you would have certainly expected better.

Despite the Leeds half chances, Ipswich were still having a major say in the game and brought the best out of Schmeichel whose "better safe than sorry" style of keeping was serving us well. Lee Martin strode forward into the box after being played in and Schmeichel palmed the ball out for a corner. McAuley headed tamely towards goal via a bounce on the ground following the resulting ball in, although Schmeichel was still forced into a tip over the bar.

The referee then made a mystifying hash of a Priskin dive. A ball was played into Priskin and was getting away from the striker, who was being chased by O'Brien. Realising the ball was escaping his grasp, he took a tumble probably two yards in front of the Leeds centre back, after clipping his own heels. Sat right in front of the decision, I was fuming at referee Darren Deadman, again overdoing the language amongst the West Stand patrons. Even the Hungarian looked embarrassed at the yellow card awarded to Andy O'Brien. Priskin looked uncomfortable in front of the Kop from the ensuing freekick (which was in a very dangerous position, particularly with Bullard over it) amidst chants of "cheat" and "we only get s**t refs".

Andy O'Brien said after the game on Twitter: "I said I didn't touch you, he said I know but I was clever."

A push on Snodgrass as he knocked the ball past the Ipswich left back was not spotted by the ref and the majority of those inside Elland Road were quick to jump on the referee's poor decision making once more. Simon Grayson went spare, and Deadman was quick to warn the Leeds boss. Simon could hardly be blamed for his reaction to the latest howler.

The standoff continued, with no one having any "bankers" in front of goal. Gradel again tried his luck from distance, and again came extremely close to curling the ball past Fulop into the bottom left corner. Paynter also had a shot well blocked from ten yards out, on the turn, by the impressive Carlos Edwards in a packed penalty box.

The referee then amazed Elland Road once more when he waved away penalty appeals as O'Brien had a strike blocked by a raised arm in the box. Despite Jewell's claims that the Elland Road faithful want a penalty for anything inside the box, he must have been pleased with this let off from Deadman, who by now was all over the shop.

At half time, the stalemate was frustrating for the Elland Road crowd to take, so used to creative play and clear cut chances. Long ball and counter attacking play was the order of the day for both sides, and neither could stake a claim to be ahead after several half chances, bar maybe Paynter's flunked header. Deadman was escorted away to the tunnel by four suited men amidst fears Leeds fans wanted to see him living up to his name. That summed up his refereeing performance in the first 45.

Leeds started the better in a second half largely dominated in possession by the home side. Howson first ballooned a volley over the bar after good work from Snodgrass down the right. Leeds had got the ball down and started to play a little, to the relief of many, and Howson managed to pick out Snodgrass on the edge of the box, who curled inches past the far post with his left across the beaten Ipswich keeper.

The only real remaining clear shot in anger, with about twenty minutes remaining was after good work from Paynter, who showed strength to muscle through on goal, and get a low strike away that was well saved by Fulop to his left.

Leeds were perhaps the more threatening of the two sides for the remainder but it was still just a flurry of long balls forward for the most part, even when Simon brought Bannan on in place of Howson. Becchio replaced Paynter at the same time, on 75 minutes, and was a little more fruitful in the air, but neither side could get a foothold. It was testament to Ipswich and their continued threat that Grayson left Somma on the bench, after getting him ready to come on on 84 minutes. Its not often that Simon is dissuaded from making an attacking substitution.

To Sum Up

Leeds managed 61% of the possession, but it was mostly ineffective possession which mainly saw us being forced to hurl it forward in desperation as Ipswich closed down our avenues and constricted our creativity. The performance lacked a little movement, and Snodgrass in particular was looking jaded. Eddie Gray said Ipswich played Snodgrass and Gradel and the like out of the game. This was true. We didn't, however, give them a chance to ever really get into it as we rarely had the ability to break Ipswich down and play in our creative men in space, and resorted instead to idea-less hoof-ball.

Despite our chances, it can't be claimed that they were gilt edged enough to merit a goal - maybe Paynter's free header but other than that we were unusually limited.

Defensively, we were very pleasing. I predicted 2-2 before the game given the players Ipswich had at their disposal. Bullard, Priskin, Dyer, Wickham all looked threatening so in that regard, the result and clean sheet is somewhat pleasing.

Sheffield United on Saturday. It is a must win at this stage of the season, with them having Henderson and Williamson suspended, and being on such a poor run, bar a freak result on Tuesday night against faltering Forest.

The Players

Schmeichel firstly had a solid game, behind what was pleasingly a solid defence for the most part. O'Brien and Bromby followed a good performance away at Preston with another solid outing here. McCartney again was the man exploited, coming inside far too often, leaving defensive work to Johnson and Gradel entirely on occasions, in a position where you'd expect to see a left back. Whether Grayson tells him to tuck inside, literally right next to Bromby, you can't be sure, but either way what he does positionally is extremely frustrating, worrying, and to my eyes looks plain wrong.

Lichaj had a very good game, as per Tuesday night. He read the game expertly, and was quick to put Ipswich players under pressure. His link up play with Snodgrass was fantastic, on two or three occasions he managed to get right into their penalty area, just his delivery was lacking a little.

The midfield were forced out of the game for the majority so there isn't much to judge here. It wouldn't be fair to say they were bettered, but they were cancelled out. Kilkenny however managed to orchestrate a couple of counter attacks effectively, and again impressed me with his all round game, for the third game in a row. He seems to have stepped up a gear post Swansea and it is pleasing to see. 

It was surprising to see Howson taken off for Bannan, as he showed most of our impetus with the ball at feet. You would have thought the change would be for Kilkenny, adding mobility and ability. Howson was willing to drive on and create, and linked up well with Snodgrass and Paynter. Howson also did the dirtier side of the game admirably, competing in the air, chasing lost causes and sticking his foot in. No one can say he's been anonymous this season, he's come on leaps and bounds in his overall game. 

Snoddy looked tired. It would probably be an idea to rest him in the game at Bramall Lane, he's not performed as well as he did against the likes of Norwich a few weeks ago in recent games.

Gradel was our main threat and at times our best defender, forced into a lot of work in the left channel by the continually cowardly looking McCartney. As always, he worked his socks off.

Paynter: Criticism Unfounded

The past two games he's played he's been humped the ball from every direction and been expected to chase it down and head it on or hold it up. He doesn't have the pace to chase it down, and doesn't have the aerial presence to be as effective as Luciano is up there on his own. Despite having a powerful stature and a fair amount of strength, it doesn't automatically qualify him as the target man Grayson seems to view him as.

At Swindon, he forged a great understanding with Charlie Austin and they both managed a heady haul of goals. Paynter wasn't relied on as the foil for Austin's finishing brilliance, as Becchio was for Beckford in League One, they worked together and created for each other. Paynter isn't used to playing up top on his own, and it has shown here. 

When Paynter receives a decent ball into his chest of feet then he is effective, in the same way Somma is, but anything other than that and he seems to struggle. After around twenty minutes, Schmeichel refused to single out Billy as the target of his long balls, such was their ineffectiveness. He instead chose Snodgrass and even Gradel at times, aiming to play Max in over the top. There isn't a clear advantage of having Billy up top on his own over Somma with the kind of service he has been getting.

With a ball into feet, it allows him to turn and bustle and cause issue with his strength and running. He drives forward and plays clever one two's, aiming to open up space to create something for himself. The impression is there that he'd be far more effective, in fact, playing off Becchio with Luciano also playing off of him, forging something similar to what he had at Swindon with Austin.

It is unfair to criticise Paynter for his play in the 4-5-1 setup. It is clear to me that the only striker we have at the club that can fulfill the lone striker role completely and effectively is Luciano Becchio, and Simon must realise this. With anybody else up top in that formation we look impotent in the air, don't win knock downs, and suffer in general link up play with the midfield, as with the type of ball we play when restricted to long ball football doesn't serve either Paynter or Somma well at all. 

It looks as if a square peg is being used in a round hole. This is no poor reflection on Paynter, who's doing the best he can in regards what he's been told to do, and managed to get himself a deserved goal against Preston, but only when he was fed the right kind of ball. Its as simple as saying he's not the type of player Grayson uses him as.

Saying this, he did miss perhaps our most glaring opportunity with a free header seven yards out right in the middle of goal...

Man of the Match

Lichaj. On perhaps his last appearance, he put in his best. Tough tackling, read the game well, bombed forward expertly and had a good understanding with Snoddy. He also coped with Dyer's threat admirably in the early stages. 

The Support

Better than in recent weeks buoyed by a shocking refereeing performance. Good encouraging support from the Leeds fans, although far from our best. 

Grayson 

"He (Deadman) told me he felt his decisions were right and that I was wrong,"

"Referees frustrate you at times. We had a really strong penalty claim. 

"One of their lads had his hands down by his side but when Andy O'Brien had a shot the lad's arms came up to prevent the ball being goalbound. 

"Refereeing is a difficult job but they have to be strong because it is a difficult place to referee at this club. 

"Paul Jewell will be happy and we were frustrated by a few of the decisions. 

"We passed he ball well and defended well but we didn't get the breaks in the 18 yard box." 

“It was frustrating on the attacking side, but I thought that we played well. We just didn’t quite get the breaks.’’

What Bates Said ... 9th March 2011

Ben Fry: First let’s talk about the Preston game which was our first win on a Tuesday night.

Ken Bates: Well, I think what’s important about Tuesday night is first of all, of course, as we know that was the first time we have won a midweek game this season. This is a pretty horrific record. But the other thing is, Preston of course haven’t won a game for so long and there’s always a chance for the worm to turn. We were of course a bit concerned it could have been us but we have beaten them. We have beaten our concerns. Another away game box ticked and Preston can now go wreak their fury on somebody else and hopefully they will be playing some of our other competitors.

BF: Simon called it a battling display compared to some of the champagne football we saw at Elland Road against Doncaster Rovers. I suppose between now and the end of the season the team are going to need every quality aren’t they?

KB: They are indeed because clubs are getting more and more desperate now. We only have Notts Forest and QPR to play above the contenders – oh, and Burnley, who are creeping up. Of course, we’re playing some clubs who are in relegation danger so they will also be fighting. But if we keep plugging away and we’ve got four players on 10 goals or more, which is obviously a good sign, and we’ve reduced our goal concession away to one goal, at least it’s not two or three. And of course Billy Paynter got his first goal, which was one of the most popular goals this season. Everybody wanted him to score. The goal itself was magnificent. Well done him. Let’s hope he gets a few more towards the end of the season.

BF: It’s a testament to the fans when it comes to Billy Paynter because at some clubs if you had a striker who had not hit the back of the net by March they might have turned on him. But the fans particularly on Saturday and last night were full of support.

KB: No, they’re desperate. They want him to score. He comes across as one of us so it’s better when one of your own scores. So good, he’s broken his duck and there’s a lot of goals in him which we’ll see over the next few seasons.

BF: Now some of the results also went for the club last night. Are you surprised how much things have changed since that defeat to Swansea?

KB: Well, one thing I have always been saying is that while I thought our strength would come through in the closing weeks of the season because we have a large squad, many of the other clubs are struggling and are now picking up injuries and suspensions and loss of form and it’s beginning to show through. So, I mean, some of the results las night were surprising or should I say unexpected – an unexpected bonus as far as we are concerned. We have to make sure we take full advantage of these. We are three points behind an automatic place, albeit with a worse goal difference. We have played Swansea and Cardiff so we can’t influence them but on the other hand, other clubs can. We must be sure that we take up the advantage of any slips. We are now fifth, which is good because that gives us another cushion from the point of view of making sure we are in the play-offs. Leicester lost last night, so that puts a gap between us again. We have got to keep our eye on Burnley but now Burnley will have to overtake Notts Forest before they can overtake Leeds. So let’s not get in the comfort zone. It’s looking good in the run-in.

BF: Now Barry Bannan came on for the last few moments of the game last night. Obviously, he’s the player who joined on loan from Aston Villa. Is he the final piece of the jigsaw or are you still on the lookout for more?

KB: No, we have been chasing Barry for some time. Aston Villa wouldn’t decide until they had their cup match against Manchester City. If you notice, if anybody watched that game when Bannan was their heart and soul, he was here there and everywhere. And of course, he has played with Snoddy in the Scottish team so they knew each other. Simon didn’t put him on at the start because he had only just joined us. But he has got training for the rest of the week and I have no doubt he will have a part to play. But his arrival sparked Kilkenny who got us a goal, which is encouraging. Going back to your question – no, it does not complete our searching. We are continuing to search but once again, as I have said before, we only want players from the Premiership and they are now becoming few and far between. We only want one or two and hopefully we’ll get them.

BF: The last couple of results mean we’re now within three points off second – do you think that’s going to increase the appetite for the Ipswich game and how many are you expecting on Saturday?

KB: Well we have already got 24,000 tickets sold so I would think we are looking at 26-27,000, which is very encouraging as we budget 25,000. It’s exciting football. The team have clicked and it’s a great day out with all our facilities so hopefully we’ll get a good enthusiastic crowd again.

BF: Now while things are going well on the pitch, I know work continues off the pitch with the East Stand development. We’re going to start seeing some of that happening but I believe on Friday as well you are going to give fans the chance to see how it will be when it is finished and show them what facilities will be available. How important is this in the process?

KB: Well, last Friday we had a cocktail party reception for executive club members to give them an opportunity to see the new facilities we are planning and we are now getting on with. We can’t get them all in in one week so we’re having another one this week on Friday. Same thing, drinks, canapes and have a look around what we’re planning to do. I think everybody who came was suitably impressed – as they should be because it’s a great development and we’re very proud of it.

BF: Online memberships are now available as well until April 30th and of course just nine days is left on season tickets before the closing dates of March 18th. Do they continue to come in?

KB: Yep, we’re now on late renewals for season tickets and I think they close on… is it the 18th of March? But they are coming in steadily. We have got 10,700 already so there’s not a lot more to come in because we still have to process the 20-year season tickets, which haven’t gone on the total numbers yet as they don’t need to be renewed. On memberships yesterday, coming in nicely, I think we might just touch about 40,000 for this season and the way it’s looking for next year it should be even more than that. We are very pleased with our memberships. it’s a great tribute to a demonstration of intent and faith by our fans.

BF: One issue away from the club this week and Sepp Blatter is again running for the FIFA presidency but there are rumours that he might have it contested this time around. Would you support a change at the top of the FIFA hierarchy?

KB: I support a change of anybody. Even Prince Andrew would be better than Sepp Blatter. Blatter, I think is responsible for running an organisation which is totally corrupt. Blatter is boasting about the fact they made £750million profit out of South Africa. He did, but he didn’t say he had left South Africa £2billion in debt with five stadiums hardly being used. It was a complete waste of money, which could have been used to re-house an awful lot of people living in terrible conditions. The trouble is of course, FIFA hand out large dollops of money to certain national associations. What they do with it, God knows what. It’s like our aid projects overseas, I think. And that ensures Mr Blatter gets his votes. Somebody has got to shift him with the state his organisation is in. However, next Tuesday, I do my bit, my two penn’orth in front of the Parliamentary Select Committee looking into Football Governance. It should be interesting. Let’s see what the newspapers say about it on Wednesday.

BF: Before your comments, can we get a preview?

KB: Depends what the questions are. On Fit and Proper Persons, I presume that will be the same high standards that we apply to our MPs and Life Peers. I read yesterday about Lord Willis. For those who can’t remember that non-entity, he was a Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate who did everything possible to stop Leeds United’s redevelopment and resurgence. He was also responsible for rather serious expenses irregularities. So his reward? He’s made a Life Peer. As Richard Littlejohn would say, you couldn’t make it up.

Courtesy of WACCOE and TSB's Fax Man

PNE 1-2 Leeds Quick Thoughts ... Leeds grind out midweek victory at long last

Tuesday night saw Leeds manage to battle their way to their first three points on a Tuesday night this season against a dogged and determined Preston side in a game that couldn't have been more different to the corresponding fixture at Elland Road earlier this season. 

Neil Kilkenny continued his renaissance following on from his best performance of the season against Doncaster by scoring an absolute peach, while "Come On Billy" Paynter managed to score his first in a white shirt after several fruitless but unlucky attempts earlier in the season. Ian Hume replied in spectacular fashion for Preston from thirty yards.

The game was fraught and frantic with neither side truly managing to wrestle control. Phil Brown's managerial know-how did wonders for Preston this evening, a vast improvement on the Kamikaze style they'd seen prior to his appointment under Darren Ferguson. Their midfield offered much bite, and caused Leeds to think quickly on their feet, forcing mistakes and preventing large spells of United dominance. Preston's attacking ploy consisted most notably of playing quickly into the lively Hume for him to spin on the ball and run at Leeds' back line. This provided several instances of success as he managed to wearable his way in behind on several occasions, as well as turn and run into space to blast in their goal.

Kasper was first forced into action with a spectacular tip onto the bar from a Keith Treacy effort, as I was still running to the ground after setting off late from Leeds. At the other end, Gradel was the main threat as he was rolled into play on several occasions, let loose to run at their back line. Leeds managed to cause some panic but had no early clear cut chances in an end to end opening.

Up stepped the much maligned Kilkenny to set critical fans (myself included) straight for the second game in succession, with an absolute pearler from thirty yards. A controlled side foot curler, first time, sent the 5000 traveling Leeds fans barmy, not only for the quality of the goal, but the fact some control had been afforded on a game that was so bitty. 

What followed was a spell of Leeds pressure. Billy Paynter had struggled with long balls being fired in his vicinity from all quarters of the pitch, but when a long pass forward was played in behind for him to run onto, he looked able to cause issue with his power and strength, firing on a couple of occasions wide after bustling his way into the box. Howson also went close after nicking the ball and driving forward in his typical composed and picturesque stride.

Phil Brown managed to re-instill Preston's self belief at half time and they came out in the spirited manner they started the first. A loose ball was hammered home from a few yards out after bobbling free from the aftermath of a corner, Sian Massey correctly raised her flag to rule it out, again proving just how much use Keys and Gray are on football coverage.

The danger of again throwing away control of a game we'd again had the best of seemed to act as a catalyst for Leeds who were doing their utmost to allay fears of another nail biter. 

Paynter was the man to extend the lead, much to the delight of the traveling support, who'd offered their undying backing of the striker despite his unfortunate lack of goals so far this season. Billy duly responded to the affections of the Leeds support, wriggling free on the edge of the box to fire home with a well struck effort across the keeper, 2-0 and what should have been a relaxed end to the game. 

The eleven Leeds men however contrived to make the game annoyingly interesting for the remainder, and Hume, who'd been a thorn in the side all night, turned and ran at a defence unwilling to close down, finishing with an arrowing drive into the top corner. It was hit with such definitive power that any keeper would have struggled. It was one to admire, and got Preston's kids giddy and taunting the 5000 traveling Leeds fans. Your guess is as good as mine as to why, with their side bottom, ours in the playoffs and them currently still losing. Chants of "you've got school in the morning" belittled their contributions off the field whenever they attempted to chime in.

The final third of the game was extremely uncomfortable as wave after wave of Preston attacks were dealt with by a scramble or last ditch header or block. It really was backs to the wall stuff, and left many querying why a change wasn't forthcoming in the midfield, which was lagging somewhat. Snodgrass in particular looked leggy.

Despite the Preston pressure, though, Paynter managed to steal in on a poor chest pass to the keeper only to see his trickling toe poke crawl painfully onto the inside of the post before being scrambled away. Billy really has upset the footballing gods with his move to Yorkshire this last summer.

Becchio replaced Paynter, Bannan replaced Kilkenny and Naylor made an appearance in place of Snodgrass who'd have been glad of the relief.

Becchio, Bromby, Naylor, O'Brien and Lichaj combined to act as an insurmountable blockade against the lofted barrage Preston offered, and with grit and determination Leeds managed to seal a narrow victory that proved oh so important once 5Live was switched on in the car and results from around the Championship came through.

Persistent Paynter

Billy capped a tireless performance with the least he deserved and the Leeds support loved it.

"Nice one Billy, nice one son, nice one Billy lets have another one..."

When he was given a chance with a ball played into him rather than into his vicinity he looked a threat and was ably playing the Becchio role up until the Argentinian's introduction.

Phil Brown commented:

"This will be Sean St Ledger and Craig Morgan's hardest game this season - Billy Paynter was exceptional."

"I was surprised Becchio wasn't starting but their manager deserves credit for that" 

The reaction of the players towards him, with them all going over to congratulate him, along with the 5000 fans going spare really does characterise the club's togetherness and was great to witness.

Kilkenny hushing critics, again

Kilkenny again silenced his critics with the second performance in two games that showed effort and effectiveness. Prior to this last week I'd been despairing at his inclusion in the side, he'd contributed pretty much the sum total of nothing to the side in regards product and effort, but since the Swansea game, his worst of the season, he's clearly been told he needs to buck up, and he's duly responded. Bannan's presence will only spur the Aussie on to keep his place in the side.

Back in the hunt

We have managed to come within three points of second, after being 8 adrift post Swansea two weeks ago - miraculous, our reprieve must be taken advantage of as the others continue to stutter. 

Leeds 5-2 Doncaster quick thoughts ... Leeds make it harder than it should have been

2nd Back On?

Take those nails out of that coffin lid, the second automatic promotion spot is still alive! Leeds got the three points today and Swansea contrived to lose their game 0-1 on a poor pitch at Glanford Park against struggling Scunthorpe, re-opening bidding for second place. 

A rare occasion where almost all results go Leeds' way leaves us right back in the hunt, and more importantly - two more points away from seventh. Forest lost for the first time in over a year at the City Ground. Norwich drew against bottom side Preston (who will be tough opponents on Tuesday night). Cardiff lost 0-2 to Ipswich. Leicester lost to hull. Glory be there's optimism once more:

Kilkenny Rant - An Apology

Saturday's performance away in Wales finally broke my unwillingness to have an all out rant at Neil Kilkenny's performances in general this season as well as in the Swansea game itself.

Today, happily and predictably after I'd laid my cards on the table in criticising him, Kilkenny put in probably his best performance of the season. Simon has surely been at Neil this week regarding that woeful performance a week ago and it seemed today that he'd taken criticism on board, as he put an admirable shift in. He tracked men, he ran the width of the pitch to keep balls in, he played higher up the pitch as well as just sitting deeper, he had efforts on goal, he tackled effectively, he shouted and directed players around him, he linked play high up the pitch with cute passing and vision. Most of all it was his effort that impressed. He has visibly not been arsed for want of a better phrase with anything in his game other than picking a simple pass but today he played with willingness to contribute more fully, so fair play to him.

If Kilkenny shows this in every game from now on, no-one can have any complaints because this is the Kilkenny of times past. And if he does indeed continue in the same fashion then Neil Kilkenny, for what its worth, I apologise - you do have a positive impact on our play.

Wasteful Again

Yes the scoreline in the end was comfortable, but it should frankly have been five before half time - without reply. In a similar way to the recent Norwich game and the Palace game at home, further to many others throughout the course of the season, Leeds fashioned dead cert openings, only to fail to convert.

It left the fans thinking after perhaps the sixth miss that Leeds would pay the price. Immediately before half time Donny drew level with their first chance and immediately after half time, they went 1-2 up through Moussa and Leeds had indeed paid the price - another game in which three goals would be needed to get the full haul out of, and at home against a struggling and depleted Doncaster.

All the while games aren't killed off when Leeds are in the ascendency and in control, the opposition gleans encouragement from Leeds failures - feeling they have a chance - it has happened time and again this season, Leeds are made to pay.

Thankfully today, the great entertainers managed to pull the game back in our favour and got us what we deserved, thanks to Howson's defiance and encouragement to the rest of the squad. He equalised, and in effect said to the rest of the eleven with his brilliant individual goal: "do that". 

Defensive Lapses

Until the Football League Show appears, the defence will be spared criticism, but according to Eddie Gray on YR after the game their first was Bromby dealing poorly with Sharp, although where I was sat I have to admit I felt it was purely flat footed defending from the looped pass over the top. Both goals were however sloppy again and came from probably two of Doncaster's three clear cut chances. The other was a one on one save from Sharp by Schmeichel. There were times in the game where a long ball quickly played over the top caused the back four to disintegrate all too easily.

Bruce getting dropped is also worth a look at in the Match Review later.

Where from here?

Well, encouragingly, the next three games on paper seem win-able, although Cardiff have just lost to Ipswich and Preston held Norwich. The bottom side away on Tuesday, Ipswich at home on Saturday and Sheffield United the following week at Bramall Lane. Seven points from the nine available there would put us right back in the hunt and if today has showed anything it has reiterated just how unpredictable and exciting the Championship is.