The Scratching Shed

A 3-1 victory over Norwegian side, SK Brann was tainted by the injury of arguably Leeds’ most important player, Robert Snodgrass.

Leading 1-0 thanks to a Luciano Becchio opener, Leeds United were applying the pressure and searching for a second when Robert Snodgrass fell victim to a horror challenge by notorious Danish thug, David Nielsen.

With only 25 minutes gone, Snodgrass was taken off the pitch by stretcher and replaced by Max Gradel. The Leeds United offical site reports;

There was a concern for Leeds… when Snodgrass was the victim of an horrendous challenge and was stretchered from the field.

Leeds United doubled their advantage from the resulting free-kick, with Neil Kilkenny’s cross finding Lloyd Sam who made it 2-0, but it was no compensation for a horrific challenge that could result in a lengthy spell on the sidelines for Snoddy.

SK Brann made it 1-2 shortly before half-time, but Luciano Becchio restored Leeds’ two goal advantage just after the break. The tackles meanwhile continued to fly in and Lloyd Sam was lucky to escape from another horrific lunge as the game was played to a nasty temperament throughout.

A couple of positives for Leeds with Luci scoring twice and Lloyd Sam getting in on the action, but Snoddy’s injury will be the big talking point and a devastating blow before the season has even begun. Fingers crossed it’s not quite as serious as it looked!

Leeds’ highly rated,  central midfielder is once again in demand as Burnley, Middlesbrough and QPR queue up to make bids. Said to be valued in the region of £3,000,000, Leeds will once again have to fend off advances if they’re to keep the influential Australian at Elland Road, after a summer of speculation last year had him linked with Doncaster Rovers.

Killa, who is one of Leeds’ younger players at 24 has had an impressive couple of seasons at Elland Road and has so far made over 80 appearances for the Whites since joining from Birmingham City for a fee of £150,000 in 2008.

Neil’s early life in football was spent in Australia, but his family chose to move to England to maximise the youngsters chances of making it professionally. Killa found a place in Arsenal’s youth team where he honed the clever passing skills we see today. He went on to play for the Australian youth team and is now a fully fledged international player.

Hard to see anyone having a bid accepted for Killa since he’s become such an integral part of the first team squad. A couple of little injury problems – most notably at the start of the last two campaigns – have sometimes left him looking on from the bench, but overall, he’s become one of our most consistent players.

Killa is also a big hit with the fans who admire his determination to keep the ball on the deck and play a passing game, rather than the hoof-ball nonsense Leeds often resort to.

The only way I can see Killa leaving Elland Road is if Simon Grayson needs the money to fund the purchase of another player, but even then, it’s an unlikely move as Larry is a big fan of the Australian and must consider him a big part of our plans for next season.

If Burnley, Middlesbrough and QPR are in such desperate needs of a new midfielder, we do have a few clearance bargains on offer that we’d gladly sell to them for a reasonable price. Contact Mr. Kenneth Bates, Sunning It, Monaco, for more details.

Five goals, four injuries, three red cards and a brace for Jermaine Beckford made for one very happy Elland Road crowd as the struggling MK Dons cast their thoughts to next season and the end of a disastrous run.

An early goal from the in-form Luciano Becchio set Leeds United on their way, but it was quickly cancelled out by Lewington just six minutes later. With Leeds United legend, Lucas Radebe watching on, the Whites defence once again crumbled from a set-play and gifted Milton Keynes the equaliser. Maybe we can get the Chief in to give Naylor and Collins a few pointers?

Leeds’ first goal had been created from nothing by the on-loan Arsenal youngster, Sanchez Watt dispossessing one of the Dons defenders. A similar blunder was punished again as Neil Kilkenny won possession, then found Sanchez Watt who set Max Gradel up to put Leeds back in the lead and give the youngster his second assist.

Just before half-time, the referee made an appalling decision by sending-off MK Dons Mathias Doumbe, but levelled his mistakes out shortly afterwards by denying Leeds what looked like a clear-cut penalty. Nevertheless, Leeds United headed in for the break 2-1 up and would return to play a MK Dons side ravaged by injuries, lacking a permanent manager and down to ten men. It really couldn’t be any easier.

The second half was a bit of a precession if truth be told. The Dons never looked capable of getting back into it, and as their injury crisis deepened with two more players added to the list, you had to feel sympathy for a team who looked likely to make the play-offs earlier in the season. Leeds meanwhile were having our own injury problems as Ben Parker was taken off with what looked to be a season ending injury.

Despite being down to ten men, the Dons held out and Leeds struggled to kill the game off. Luckily, we had our most dangerous weapon ready to pounce from the subs bench and his introduction brought with it a new lease of life for the Whites. Jermaine Beckford entered the field to a positive reaction from the crowd in what is likely to be his penultimate appearance at Elland Road.

The pace of Jermaine Beckford instantly caused problems for the makeshift Milton Keynes defence and it took just five minutes for Jermaine to extend the Whites lead. A cross from Bradley Johnson was pounced upon by Beckford and put beyond the Dons keeper to secure the three points for Leeds United.

Sanchez Watt’s man of the match performance was prematurely ended by injury as Leeds headed into the last ten minutes. The Arsenal youngster received a well-deserved standing ovation from the Leeds United faithful as the fans crossed their fingers and prayed it was nothing serious.

With four minutes remaining, Jermaine Beckford doubled his tally after being bundled down in the box and earning Leeds a penalty. Milton Keynes were struggling to cope with Becks’ pace and David McCrackan was sent off under the last man rule. Beckford’s penalty was a weak effort, but still managed to beat the MK Dons keeper, as the Whites put the final nail in their coffin.

All that was left was for the referee to send off his final player of the day which was Peter Levens, meaning Milton Keynes finished the match with eight men and the referee had taken his card tally to five yellow and three red. Personal best perhaps?

Overall, Leeds weren’t as good as the result suggests. Our defensive frailties were once again highlighted as everyone went missing during set-plays and we really should have had the points sealed up earlier than we did. Milton Keynes are a wounded side that never caused us any real problems. Their injury crisis, management problems and the fact they have nothing left to play for means they’re just making the numbers up at the minute and looking forward to drawing a line under a devastating season. That said, Leeds got the three points and that’s all that really matters.

All that leaves Leeds United still in second place, but since Millwall managed a late couple of goals at home to Leyton, they’re still only one point behind us. The good news is that Swindon and Charlton only managed draws leaving them pretty much out of the running now as Leeds head to the Valley next Saturday.

TSS man of the match

Simon Grayson rung the changes for this game and the one that paid off most notably was the starting place for Arsenal’s Sanchez Watt. The youngster was a real breath of fresh air, linking up well with Max Gradel throughout and getting himself two assists for his efforts. Hopefully his injury wasn’t too severe.

Welcome to a new section on TSS called Terrace Wars. The big debates that go on around Elland Road will be discussed here and put to a vote in the true democratic style our country so truly loves and chairman refuses to consider.

First up for debate is Luciano Becchio, a player many think should be dropped in favour of our other strikers. The usual suggested replacement is Mike Grella who has showed flashes of brilliance this season from the subs bench. His team mates rate him as the most skilful player in the side (Jermaine Beckford, Neil Kilkenny, Soccer AM team mates 2010) and many fans believe he should be given an extended run in the team to showcase his ability.

Grella isn’t the only contendor though. Paul Dickov is an extremely experienced and consistent (if somewhat dirty) forward that many believe could produce more goals than Luciano Becchio even though he is close to drawing a state pension.

Tresor Kandol is also back in contention and has somehow become a bit of a cult hero at Elland Road. Not so long ago he was less popular than Peter Ridsdale, but since he rediscovered his scoring boots in the reserves and while out on loan, there’s been calls to have him returned to the first team. He also does an exceptional moonwalk, which must be taken into consideration.

FInally, we come to our newest candidate; Davide Somma. The inexperienced South African is working wonders at struggling Lincoln City and has managed six goals in as many appearences during his loan spell there. Some are suggesting it could be similar to when Jermaine Beckford went on loan to Scunthorpe.

Of course, Luciano Becchio has his fans too. A lot of people point to his work rate as a reason he should never be dropped. Some also claim he’s as much to do with how many Beckford scores as the man himself, and that without him, Beckford would struggle. Hardly the most prolific striker, but definitely has his strengths.

So, should Luci be dropped from the starting XI? Vote and comment below.

No wins now in the last four for Leeds after another below par performance at Elland Road. Three home games at Elland Road were ahead of us last Tuesday, from which we should have realistically been looking to take all nine points, but after disappointing results against Walsall and Brighton, we’re now looking at a maximum of four as the gap to the play-off places disappears.

This was another below par performance from Leeds and the result is no more than they deserved. Although there was an improvement on Tuesday’s performance, there’s still several issues that need to be addressed;

“What the **** is going on?”

Formation

We’ll start with the ever changing line-up, which yesterday was as below at kick-off.

Ankergren

Hughes, Naylor, Kisnorbo, Lowry

Howson, Doyle, Kilkenny, Johnson, McSheffrey

Beckford

The midfield is in no particular order as it was hard to make sense of who was playing where to be totally honest, such was the lack of order it seemed to possess. The key thing to note here however is that Beckford is upfront on his own, whilst our bench harboured the likes of Becchio, Gradel and Snoddy.

More to the point, on the pitch was McSheffrey, who I was led to believe was a forward. Clearly not a natural midfielder, would probably benefit from playing alongside Beckford as he’d be a much better targetman for the long-ball Leeds are insisting on playing at the minute and can also hold the ball up and create chances, which is what Beckford needs to be of any benefit to the team.

Much like when Luciano Becchio was playing alone upfront, Beckford was massively ineffective as a lone striker with poor support from the midfield. Leeds’ final ball was so poor that the Brighton keeper could have probably taken the day off and the scoreline wouldn’t have changed too much. Beckford and Becchio need each other to produce the goods. They both bring something to the party and neither can play alone.

I’m starting to think we’re dropping a striker in order to accomodate McSheffrey who must have been promised first team football. I don’t mind that as McSheffrey is a good player, but he needs to be playing alongside Beckford to keep the balance of the team and give us any real threat going forward.

The penalty

It was never a penalty in a million years, but these things happen. The referee was totally useless throughout and both teams had to cope with him so no sour grapes from me in that respect. Leeds had all the possession and really should have walked it against a pathetically weak Brighton side who we battered 3-0 in the reverse fixture.

The long ball

It’s becoming really annoying seeing balls pumped long to players who can’t bring them down. The supporters were once again whinging at Beckford for failure to move and fight for the ball, but he’s so useless in the air there was probably little point. The team plays better when we have some sort of flow and pass about a bit, but they just don’t seem to have the confidence to try and play football at the minute.

The celebration

The players goading Gus Poyet after we scored was totally unacceptable in my mind. Whether it was deliberate or has been taken out of context, I aren’t entirely sure. Maybe they were intending to celebrate with their own bench? I know Grayson wasn’t pleased anyway and nor was Gus by the sounds of things and it’s hardly surprising really.

The positives

The substitutions

Once we’d made our three changes we were back to our normal shape with Luci and Becks upfront and four in midfield. Snoddy, who started on the bench for some reason, came on and had an instant impact and it was no surprise he got the goal. After falling one down, it was the only time we looked threatening, but since this coincided with going back to basics in terms of line-up and formation, I’d suggest this played more of a part than anything else.

The defence

A million times better than on Tuesday. Doyle and Howson in midfield were nullifying attacks before they became a threat, leaving Brighton with nothing but the long ball option and Paddy was there everytime to head clear. We look so much better with them three in the team from a defensive aspect that if the formation remains the same, I think the clean sheets will return soon.

Max Gradel

Max was the victim of an absolute horror challenge that saw Brighton reduced to ten men late on. I honestly couldn’t believe he got up and played on afterwards as he must have been in some pain, so credit to the youngster for his determination.

The fans

Unlike midweek, it was a good turn-out with 24,000 there to cheer the Whites on. Good to see such a sizable crowd despite things not going our way at the minute. That said, the patience is growing thin and the growing sighs around the ground reflects the times. Most notable chant of the day was a chorus of “What the …. is going on?” when Brighton scored. No booing at the end though thankfully.

Overall

Better but still with flaws. It didn’t surprise me at all to see us improve massively when we went back to 4-4-2 and got the regulars back on the field. I hope we start the next match with the line-up that’s served us well all season and if we are going to play McSheffrey, then hopefully it’ll be alongside Beckford rather than out of place in midfield.

Defensively we looked a different team from Tuesday night, but upfront we’re lacking in ideas, despite the vast array of attacking players at our disposal. Back to basics for me. The worrying thing is that the gap to the play-offs has closed massively so whatever the reasons behind the current slump, they need sorting sharpish.

Can’t deny I’m worried at the minute, but not entirely surprised. Years of supporting Leeds tells me that we never do things the easy way and this season looks to be no exception. I have full faith in Grayson’s ability to turn things round, but the longer this goes on, the more the fans will lose confidence and the more the morale of the support drops, the harder it will become.

Won on the night, drew overall, but out on penalties. Despite a defiant comeback from a never say die Leeds United side who were unquestionaly the better team overall, it’s Carlisle that will play in this years JPT final at Wembley Stadium whilst Leeds United are dealt a bitter blow by the coin flip that is a penalty shoot-out.

I left Carlisle on Tuesday night feeling extremely bitter. The JPT for me was always a pointless competition I cared little about, but the opportunity to watch Leeds United play at Wembley once more was always tempting. My bitterness stemmed from quite possibly the worst referee I have ever seen. I usually try to ignore referee’s performances, because on the whole, the lower league ones are largely useless and both teams have to cope with their incompetence, but this referee was a special kind of moron.

Clearly, this ref had just got himself a new whistle and wanted to show it off to the 10,000 fans who he mistakenly believed had come to watch him. His whistle spent so much time in his mouth that the game hardly had a chance to flow early on, but he did seem to let up a little second half (presumably after a bollocking from someone) and the two teams were actually allowed to play football in small patches.

What was all the more irritating about this referee than the usual jobsworth was his inability to give a decision that actually mattered. If a player coughed near another one anywhere outside the penalty box then this was a definite free-kick in his mind. However, when a Leeds United player was fouled in the box for the most clear cut decision I saw all night, he gave nothing! The final blow for me though came at the very end when he decided to have the penalties taken infront of the Carlisle fans rather than at the opposite end which was split. The coin toss became a little more weighted in their direction at that point.

When the ref did stop to capture his breath, the game was actually a really good battle. The scoreline says it all really, but the comeback from Leeds United was magnificent. Both teams will be questioning some of the defending in the aftermath, most noticably Lubomir Michalik on our part who got himself two assists for Carlisle. Whenever it looked like it was over, Leeds United just didn’t give in and you could sense Mike Grella’s goal coming and just knew this was going down to the wire.

Carlisle for me didn’t deserve their place in the final, Leeds were the better team and but for some poor defending and a few dodgy decisions, we’d be playing in the most exciting JPT final the competition has ever seen infront of a capacity crowd at the national stadium. Without us, the final will hardly be thought of outside Carlisle, but we bow out of the competition with our heads held high and are now fully focused on what has been the number one priority all along. Promotion.

The ups

The fans – As always, the fans did Leeds United proud. We outsang the pitiful Carlisle fans throughout and even when our backs were to the wall facing a two goal mountain the songs just kept coming. MOT!

Never say die – The penalty shootout aside, this was a display from a spirited Leeds United who never gave up and carried on fighting no matter what the scoreline read and however stacked against us the odds were. This is the kind of display that will win Leeds United promotion, however bad the defence may be at times.

Attack, attack… attack, attack, attack! When the goals were needed and the referee kept his whistle out of his mouth for long enough and even without Jermaine Beckford (who would have probably got sent off with that ref) Leeds were good when on the front foot. Becchio should have done better with a couple of chances, but the build-up play from McSheffrey, Snoddy and Gradel was usually very good. Snoddy even managed to cross pretty well so long as the ball was moving. Corners on the other hand… Well, one step at a time…

The Downs

Luciano Becchio – Bitterly disappointed with Luci who bottled the penalty shoot-out, leaving our on-loan full-back to take the decisive penalty instead. Only one regular striker on the pitch in the absence of Beckford and he didn’t have the balls to step up and take a pen for Leeds. Whatever his reasons, he’s a striker and should always be taking them before the full-backs. Also could have done better infront of goal, but as a lone striker Grayson was asking a lot.

Max Gradel – Too much time with Jermaine Beckford has led to the youngster developing a serious attitude problem. The referee infuriated everyone, but shouting at him was never going to get you too far Max. There was one point where Kilkenny tried to calm him down only to receive a load of abuse too. His footballing display was good and he tried everything to give Leeds the edge, but his attitude overshadowed his performance. Lucky not to see a red card.

Lubomir Michalik – Dreadful. At times he made some good tackles and got the blocks in, but when taken into context with his mistakes, he was dreadful and cost us the game.

The tactics – Becchio as a lone striker? I know he’s found his shooting boots lately, but that was never a good idea. What on earth does Mike Grella have to do to get in the starting line-up at Leeds?

I imagine that, like me, the majority of readers are fans of Soccer AM and will therefore have seen the following clip but for those that haven’t, here’s Jermaine Beckford and Neil Kilkenny being interviewed not long back (but before Enoch’s transfer).

Quite interesting to see them both rate Grella as the most skilful. I’m shocked that Enoch is considered the most intellectual, although these are footballers we’re talking about. It’s the equivalent to Peter Crouch going to China and becoming the tallest man – no hard feat at all.

Not so shocking was that Beckford is considered the worst trainer, David Prutton is the joker (watch any interview with him, the mans a comedy genius) and Tres the best dancer; the MJ tribute act he did on crossbar challenge was hysterical.

In a fixture that should have resulted in another three points to the league leaders, Leeds United failed to show the class they did at Old Trafford last Sunday and dropped two points to struggling Wycombe, and in truth, we were lucky to get anything.

Before we delve into what was an extremely poor display from the Whites, the big news of the day was that Jermaine Beckford was named in the starting line-up. Despite an expected move to Newcastle due for completion anytime, Grayson risked unsettling the crowd by naming the wantaway striker alongside Lucciano Becchio. I have to admit, I really wasn’t expecting to see Becks at Elland Road today and this would suggest the move to Newcastle isn’t as far along as was originally believed.

Credit has to be given to both the Leeds United fans and Jermaine Beckford. The Leeds fans responded positively and gave Jermaine their support throughout, with choruses of his name being sang also. Jermaine responded in an appreciative manner by clapping the crowd and worked hard all afternoon. Had the rest of the team played as well as he did, I have no doubts we’d be reflecting on a much better scoreline.

Of course, there was the odd disgruntled fan who was vocally annoyed at Jermaine, but no one can really blame them given the manner in which his transfer wishes have been carried out by both himself and his agent. The majority though realised he was still in a Leeds shirt and while ever that remains the case, they had to give him their support for the benefit of the team as a whole.

As for the game, well, those that did drag themselves through the ice and snow and made the journey to Elland Road probably wished they’d stayed in bed as this was one of the worst performances I’ve seen at home in a long time. How we got anything from this game is anyones guess.

Jonny Howson opened the scoring early on with a shot from range and it looked like it’d be as easy as expected for Leeds United. From there on in though, things just never went to plan. The team didn’t settle, there was a lack of concentration in the passing and no one made much of an effort to close the opposition down when in possession.

By the time we reached the break, Wycombe had struck the woodwork and seen an effort scrambled off the line by Neil Kilkenny. It was easy to forget we were in front, despite having a couple of chances ourselves, most notably a Bradley Johnson header that he felt had crossed the line.

At half-time we were confident Simon Grayson would whip his under-performing team into shape and the Whites would return stronger, looking to put this match to bed. For the first few minutes, that appeared to be the case, but Wycombe refused to surrender and started to get the better of Leeds once more.

Casper had, had one of his busiest shifts of the season, but managed to keep Leeds in front. It wasn’t going to last though. Pittman got the better of Richard Naylor and fired low and hard into the bottom right hand corner to give the Wycombe fans a rare moment of celebration in an otherwise forgettable season so far.

Simon Grayson reacted as expected and brough Max Gradel on in place of Robert Snodgrass. With 25 minutes to go, we were all expecting a late moment of brilliance from the youngster, but he simply never got the chance as Wycombe pushed a hapless Leeds United and went for the kill. The final whistle was a welcomed one and it honestly felt like a point gained rather than two lost, such was the level of performance from Leeds.

Regardless of how poor Leeds were, Wycombe should be given credit for having the balls to come to Elland Road and attack. They’re on an absolutely dismal run at the minute and find themselves in the relegation zone. Today however, they proved they’re not relegated yet and with a couple of strong signings in January, they could well surprise everyone and escape the drop.

On the way to the match today we were chatting about the reverse fixture earlier in the season where Leeds won 1-0. As memory serves, Leeds United were pretty poor that day too and Wycombe ran the show in the first half. Leeds just had that little bit too much class for Wycombe though and a second half goal gave Leeds a win they really didn’t deserve. But even with that fixture in mind, I didn’t think we’d struggle again today. We’ve come a long way since our second gear performances early this season and this should have been a procession.

A poor result and a poor display from pretty much everyone. No one ever got going, the passing was dire, the closing down was often non-existant and Wycombe really should have beaten us. That said, this is probably why we’re top of the league. Both games against Wycombe this season we’ve come away with results we didn’t deserve, but that’s often the case with the league leaders. The trick to winning the league is consistency and grinding results out that others would lose. Twelve months undefeated at Elland Road for Simon Grayson’s Leeds United and this poor showing should only be seen as a minor stumbling block. We’ll come back stronger, with or without Becks. In Grayson we trust.

Chant of the day: “Are you Rooney in disguise?” From the Leeds fans as Wycombe’s striker missed.

TSS men of the match: All the groundstaff that worked tirelessly to ensure this game went ahead whilst many others were postponed due to the white stuff. Unfortunately, the only other game that went ahead was at Norwich who won 3-1, closing the gap on us to six. Maybe we should have dumped the snow we cleared on their ground? Just a thought…

Best moment: Cheering Jermaine on was good to see. Regardless of our feelings towards the transfer saga, he’s done well for Leeds and will always be remembered for knocking scum out of the cup.

Worst moment: The Leeds fans booing at full time. I aren’t saying I disagree with the boo’s, because to be honest I was so cold and annoyed at the lack of effort exerted, I joined in, but never nice to see fans booing their own team. Hopefully the lads will understand the performance was below par and look to respond v Exeter next week.

You can imagine how hard I’m going to find it to be even slightly critical of anyone following that result, but having now watched the match again (best thing I’ve ever Sky+’d) without the tension and nerves at the times, I’ve come up with the following. Feel free to share your thoughts.

Casper Ankergren – 8*
This is a tough one because he was beaten. Aside from the moment where Jason Crowe came to his rescue he made some good saves. Was a few nervy moments from corners where he came to clear and missed, but clean sheet so no complaints.
*Decided I agree with the consensus that I was a little hard on Casper and he deserves more than the original 7, so edited to 8. He did slow the shot down from Rooney enabling Crowe to clear and the shots he did save make his efforts worthy of a higher score.

Jason Crowe – 8
From now on, this is how he should play every week. Was beaten once or twice. but hardly surprising giving who he had to compete with and always chased them down. Saved us from an equaliser with a goal-line clearence and worked tirelessly throughout. Best display he’s had in a Leeds shirt for me.

Richard Naylor – 9
As a lifelong Leeds fan, Nayl’s will have needed no motivational talk for this game from Grayson. He put everything on the line, throwing whatever he had in front of whatever Manchester United could muster. Clean sheet at Old Trafford, not many teams get to say that and the partnership of him and Kis is key to that success. Absolutely hounded Rooney throughout.

Patrick Kisnorbo – 9
Fearless, absolutely fearless. Solid as a rock and never sees anything as a lost cause. His work rate is incredible, his desire admirable and the difference he’s made to Leeds United in defence, unbelievable. Haven’t been able to fault him on much all season.

Andrew Hughes – 7
Had the unenviable task of Welbeck followed by Valencia. Dealt pretty well with Welbeck, but when the youngster did break he was simply impossible to catch such is his terrifying pace. Valencia ran him ragged, but Hughes gave everything and played his part in the result.

Jonny Howson – 10
I said in my match report that I felt Jonny had grown from the experience and I simply can’t praise him enough. Like Naylor, he’s homegrown and would have needed no motivation whatsoever. His pass for Beckford’s goal was simply sublime, his closing down was tireless and he never showed any fear or respect to the Premier League champions throughout. Hero in the making.

Neil Kilkenny – 8.5
Got disposessed a few times, but then who didn’t? (and I mean on both teams) Always looked to move forward and create chances, never took his foot off the gas and was there with the tackles when needed. Another solid performance from Killa, making the competition for places in midfield a real battle.

Michael Doyle – 8
What I like about Doyle is that he holds back giving Kilkenny, Johnson and even Howson at times room to push forward. Not afraid of the tackle and certainly showed no fear against any of the Man United players. Battled throughout and had a solid game.

Bradley Johnson – 8
Made Gary Neville look like a pub team player – which, let’s face it, he should be. Probably quite frustrated with the end product at times, but he played a big part in why we were so strong going forward. Good game from Bradley and great to have him back.

Jermaine Beckford – 10
The enigma that is Jermaine Beckford. What can you say about him, he’s answered all his critics in the last few weeks. Weak in the air - scores with a header. Underperforming - scores five in three games. Disappears in big games – runs Manchester United ragged. Could quite easily have been MOTM as he just made a mockery of Wes Brown all day. If that was his last game for Leeds United, it’s not a bad way to end an impressive run at the club and he’ll leave a hero in my eyes.

Luciano Becchio – 8.5
Strong, hard-working, tough tackling and troublesome for Manchester United throughout. Seemed to play closer to midfield than he did striker, but his contribution was nonetheless vital and helped us win the battle in the centre of the park. Never going to be an out and out striker, but his contribution is invaluable to the team.

The subs
Simon Grayson left two of his subs ’til the very end (probably to time waste) so no point rating Michalik or White, but Snoddy came in and made an immediate impact hitting the bar with a beautifully struck free-kick. From there on in, he got stuck in and helped us to secure victory.

A bit of festive cheer was had by all yesterday as Leeds came from behind to win 3-1 at home to Hartlepool United. Beckford has deservedly stole the headlines, but here’s how I thought the rest of the team rated too.

Casper Ankergren – 7
Did what he had to do throughout and whilst the passes remain a little dodgy and his catching could use some improvement, he did well overall. Can’t be held accountable for the goal as it was sloppy defending that left their mammoth of a striker unmarked.

Leigh Bromby – 6
Quiet, but didn’t really do much wrong. A bit dodgy at times in the first half, but sharpened up in the second. Not an ideal solution - let’s say “adequate.”

Patrick Kisnorbo – 8
Another solid performance from Kis. Can’t put a foot wrong really, although the mammoth striker i mentioned who scored (Ármann Björnsson) was beating Kis and Nayl’s in the air for fun at times. Hardly surprising though as he was about six inches taller.

Richard Naylor – 6.5
Bit of an up and down performance from Nayl’s. His passing went astray at times (like others), and like Kis he was beaten a few times by the beast they had upfront. Also has to take some responsibility for the goal we conceded as the captain is the one who should be organising the defence in such situations – especially when he’s a centre-back. Leaving the back post empty is a major oversight. On the flipside, he got in with the tackles and blocks.

Andrew Hughes – 7.5
A very good performance from Hughes. Bit of a scare early on when he was down for a while with what looked like a knee injury, but pulled through and had a good game. Even delivered a couple of good crosses in.

Jonny Howson – 6.5
Poor in the first half but improved no end in the second. Distribution was way off early doors, but after the break he came back looking like a different player.

Micky Doyle – 5
I’m usually quite a fan of Doyle, but he served no real purpose in this game. Around the box he brings little to the party, but that’s nothing unusual. His strength usually lies in suring up the back line, which to an extent he did, but he gave the ball away far too often.

Neil Kilkenny – 7.5
Neil spreads the ball better than anyone else on the team. It’s like a natural ability for him to be able to pick out the right pass that creates openings for others. Great performance from him, but like last week, he could have shot more often.

Robert Snodgrass – 8
Absolutely tireless in his efforts. The passes didn’t always make it, nor did the crosses, but he was everywhere. Had several shots blocked within the opening quarter of an hour and I was surprised he didn’t get his name on the scoresheet.

Lucciano Becchio – 7.5
Not sure whether he’ll be awarded with the goal as it took a major deflection, but worked hard throughout, holding the ball up and playing people in. Was taken off after a daft yellow card he picked up for a handbags battle also involving Johnson.

Jermaine Beckford – 9
I can’t believe there are still people criticising parts of his play when he scored twice. He was a bit over-eager at times, granted, but he worked hard throughout and was unlucky not to get the hat trick considering the shot that came back off the bar. That’s the kind of answer we all wanted from Beckford after his recent antics, let’s hope he can keep it up.

Substitutions
Gradel was too eager to score for his own good and a little selfish in truth. Johnson and Kandol didn’t really get much of a chance to do anything (other than get himself booked in Johnson’s case). By the time they came on, the match was won and the rest of the team were more interested in playing olé football than they were scoring again.