Leeds 1 Swindon 0 - report

By Andy Baggott
September 22 2004

Despite an early goal, Leeds struggled to break down a resilient Swindon, and were fortunate to come away with a victory in last nights cup clash.

As expected, manager Kevin Blackwell rang the changes, with Matthew Spring and Jamie McMaster starting for the first time. Kilgallon was recalled at the back, while Ricketts replaced Deane up front.

It was the former Bolton man who got Leeds off to a flyer – Kelly played a fantastic ball, and rickets ran on and finished with ease. It will have come a huge relief to the striker, who has struggled since coming to Leeds – the fans will be hoping the goal will be the first of many. The game was now set up for Leeds, but they never really looked a threat. At the back, Kell was having a string game, whilst the centre back pairing of Butler and Carlisle were struggling. Gregan showed glimpses of what he could do, as did Spring, but on the whole, the team never seemed to click. The second half was a drab affair, and it was Swindon who looked the likelier to score. Parkin shot wide when well placed as Leeds were forced to hang on. With 10 minutes to go, Danny Cadamrteri was introduced for his debut, and the ex-Everton and Bradford man performed well in the little time he had. He may have pushed himself into the frame for Fridays visit of Sunderland, but Leeds will have to step up their performance by several notches if they are to get anything from Mick McCarthys men….