Preston 0 - 2 Leeds. Leeds make final

By Rich Baggott
May 8 2006

Match report as leeds United travelled to Deepdale for the second leg of the play-off final against Preston. They say football is a funny old game and nothing could be more apt for the story of Leeds United.

The much talked about financial meltdown of the club, culminating in relegation two seasons ago and a complete rebuild of the club from the bottom up - Life had not been harder for Leeds fans and some neutrals may ask if it is all worth it - tonight it was.

in fron to f a capaicity crowd and several people adorning what resembled to be a building site, Leeds had the taks of beating Leeds at their ground in a repeat of a tie just 8 days ago. Having already been held 1-1 in the first leg last Monday, few fancied Leeds and the bookieas gave the shorter odds to Preston.

Up step Leeds United.

The first half was atrocicous by footballing standards - heading tennis and log balls left both teams with little more than half hearted shots on target. Ricahrdson, playing on the wide right did create on half volley chance for himself but it was comfortably saved and Preston did little more that create a few scares from set pieces. If Leeds were playing to frustrate Preston, it was a job well done when the ref. blew for half-time.

An extended break due to the power cut in the Preston area lead to a 25 minute deley for the second half to kick off but it didn;t do anythingt to dealy the passion from leeds. The side came out with determination and passion and set off in a completely different style, passing and playing much better football. It was rewarded just 11 minutes into the half with a Hulse header from a corner. The stadium errupted from the Leeds fans who as usual were a credit to the team and outsung the home supporters throughout.

Before preston could react, Leeds were pushing again and Richardson found a squared ball at his feet a few yards out with the goal at his mercy. His plan was evidently to delay for a few seconds until the kepper got back in position and then blast it straight at him - well this is Leeds - you've got to have drama! 2-0

The fans now wild with celebration could not beleive their luck froma side that has failed to hit 2 goals in a match for months and were now leading by two goals in the closing stages of an away leg of the play-off semi-final!!

And the drama wasn't over yet - the defence stood tall and thwarted everythig that Preston could throw at them until Nugent, who moaned and complained all night, worked his socks off to get Crainey sent off. Crainey, booked in the first half was dismissed for a tackle from behind and a second yellow - Leeds were down to 10 men with over 20 minutes to play.

No bother! Riochardson switched to Left back and Leeds continued to dominate their own box. A couple of half chances fell but Sullivan was there to sweep up any mess. Preston did get the ball into the net from a Mears header, but the ball had been judged to go out before swinging back in from the suppliying corner. Stone and Cresswell came on to provide some fresh legs and level heads and Leeds still continued to stand strong. The extra man advantage was never punished and the fans watched as the clock ticked down towards the full time whistle.

In the closing stages, Cresswell was booked for a second time for kicking the ball away and Leeds ended the the match with nine men - but it wasn't going to dampen the spirit and moments later - the full time whistle and trip to Cardiff was booked.


It's never easy as a Leeds fan, the team everyone loves to hate - but it is amazing fun and makes you very proud.