Knife edge stuff are the play-offs. Aston Villa lost 1-0 on the night last night but are through to Wembley after a 4-3 penalty win after extra-time.
Tonight is was Leeds’ chance to do the same, returning to Elland Road with a slender 1-0 lead from the first-leg at Pride Park. Kemar Roofe scored that goal, but the former Oxford United frontman was ruled out with yet another injury.
1-0, even at a bearpit Elland Road, is always going to be a slender margin. Form takes a backseat when it comes to the play-offs, it’s a whole new animal. A goal was needed to settle the nerves, give that added security.
Step forward Stuart Dallas.
24’ Phillips delivers the free-kick, Cooper’s header hits the post and Stuart Dallas steps up to slot the ball home! #LUFC lead 2-0 on aggregate! pic.twitter.com/DLOYVJsC3V
— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 15, 2019
Kalvin Phillips’ free-kick bounces awkwardly and cannons back off the inside of Kelle Roos’ far post. Sitting up nicely for Stuart Dallas, the Ireland international sweeps it in with his left peg to give Leeds United a two-goal cushion.
That was the goal that Whites fans had been hoping for, it gave them that vital cushion that teams want in matches like this. It wasn’t to last, Derby equalising on the night after a Kiko Casilla/Liam Cooper mix-up which threatens to alter the momentum in the second period.
However, here’s how Leeds United fans reacted to Dallas’ opener.
Stuart Dallas left peg opener – Leeds United fans react
Sees goal on sky. Goes immediately to Twitter for Phil Hay tweet bonus hit.
— Alex Hart (@doctoralex) May 15, 2019
Yes!!!! Now get another and close the door on Derby!
— Ole Morten Persen (@OleMPersen) May 15, 2019
I’ve been waiting all day for this
— Sheldon Levett (@lufc_levett) May 15, 2019
Or Lisburn!
— MallonAllister (@AllisterMallon) May 15, 2019
VAMOS LEEDS CARAJOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
— Tony LUFC (@Tonylufc28) May 15, 2019