Leeds 0 Wigan 2 - report

By Andy Baggott
November 1 2004

Leeds lost yesterday, but can take heart from a few good performances, and a number of chances created. Wigan were restricted to 3 shots on target, whilst Leeds hit double figures, but the truth was, the game was last in midfield.

Gregan and Walton both struggled to get to grips with the runners from the Wigan midfield, and their lack of pace was always a problem.

The defence looked solid enough, although Clarke Carlisle had to tread a very fine line after picking up an early booking – all tackles had to be times to perfection-and they were. The two strongest performances came from Simon Johnson and new boy David Healy. Johnson has flattered to deceive on previous appearances, and his Elland Road career looked all but over when he was sent to Sunderland on loan last month. Playing wide left, he showed a turn of pace and a willingnus to run at the Wigan back four. His final ball could have been better, but he looked a vastly improved player to the one we have seen before. He needs to maintain that level now, and he could be a useful player for us. Healy also impressed. His first touch was assured, and he had a good awareness of what was around him, regularly bringing other players into play.

The two goals that cost us were runs from deep – the first saw Mahon breaking and not being tracked, then a fine finish. The second shortly after had a 2 against 1 break, Kelly risked covering the spare man, allowing Bullard to fire home from an acute angle. After going into the break all square, after 55 minutes we were 2 down. After that, Wigan had a period of possession, but the last 15 was all Leeds – Deane could have had 4, but hit the keeper with every attempt. Healy saw his drive well saved, and you knew it wasn’t going to be our day. The introduction of substitutes Lennon and Joachim injected some pace into the game, and both must be in with a chance of a recall on Wednesday. Fraser Richardson looks tired, and now may be the time for Blackwell to rest the youngster.

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