LUFC: Ten things we’ve learnt this week #5 TSS September 19, 2010 Leeds United 13 Comments The more eagle-eyed readers out there may have noticed that the ‘Ten Things’ series took a break last week. The reason for this was that I’ve been away for two weeks and unable to update the site, but Tim Hodge and the other writers did such a brilliant job keeping things going in my absence, that no one actually noticed! (..sobs) Anyway, while I come to terms with the fact that The Scratching Shed has outgrown me and taken on an independent life of it’s own, here’s a quick fire round-up of everything that’s happened since our last ten things on the 3rd of September. #01 – We need to go behind to win Leeds United were making a habit of scoring points after going behind, and the home game against Swansea was to be no exception. Comical defending from Richard Naylor gave the Swans the lead, but a resilient Leeds United fought back to take all three points. #02 – Embarrassed in Barnsley It all started so well for the Whites in Barnsley with Jonny Howson netting early, but an atrocious display of second-half defending made for an embarrassing 5-2 defeat away to Barnsley. Davide Somma’s late appearance and the defiant singing of Leeds United’s army were the only positives to take from a truly dismal performance that Barnsley won’t be letting us forget any time soon. Revenge at Elland Road to follow… #03 – All square at the Keepmoat After an embarrassing defeat away to Barnsley, few were expecting great things against a Doncaster side we haven’t met since… erm… well, you know when… no need for reminders… Larry rung the changes, dropping flops Bessone and Naylor and awarding Bruce and Somma with first team starts. A much improved performance from the Whites deserved all three points, but Somma’s thunderous shot was tipped onto the bar by Neil Sullivan, and the former Leeds keeper once again denied the South African a golden opportunity one-on-one as the match ended goalless. #04 – Snoddy’s back! Robert Snodgrass made his return to the Leeds United squad away to Doncaster Rovers, and with Billy Paynter believed to be nearing full fitness too, Leeds United’s squad is growing in strength. #05 – Whatever happened to Millwall? After a surprising start to the season, cocky Millwall fans were running riot on internet forums telling us all how they’d be going up. Oh how we laughed. After a 3-1 masterclass show at Elland Road, we laughed again. But nothing prepared our sides for the thoroughly hysterical 1-6 home defeat they took at the hands of Watford this weekend. Not so mouthy now I notice, Millwall… #06 – Striker wars! The hottest debate of the moment is undoubtedly who Leeds United should play upfront. With McCormack finding his feet in the team, Becchio as consistent as ever and Billy Paynter on his way back, just who should partner our new hero, Davide Somma? #07 – Ju’ve been watching Doncaster Rovers v Leeds United When Juventus scouts turn up for a Championship match between Doncaster Rovers and Leeds United, you can be certain they’re not there in an unofficial capacity to enjoy a superior clash of footballing brilliance. You can also rule out the friendly hospitality, intelligent conversation, fine cuisine, great climate, and quality beverages as none of the above are found at the Keepmoat. The real reason he was there remains a mystery, but does have Leeds fans understandably concerned. #08 – Got wood? A bit of pointless trivia was shared on twitter the other day, which tells us that Leeds United have hit the woodwork more times than any other Championship team. Although I have no way to confirm this presumption, Bradley Johnson also holds the record for most shots over the bar/wide/out of the stadium. #09 – Bradley Johnson scored! Usually when you hear the three words ‘Bradley Johnson scores,’ you can safely assume that one of Leeds’ premier slags is enjoying a night with Leeds United’s premier playboy. What you don’t expect, is for Leeds United’s premier playboy to be a celebrating a goal. His rare contribution hardly makes up for the million and one shots he misses every game, but everyone’s got to start somewhere… #10 – The Richard Naylor retirement bash I’d like to extend an invitation to all my fellow Leeds United fans, to a celebration of Richard Naylor’s retirement to be held tomorrow morning at Thorp Arch training ground. The defender doesn’t know he’s retiring yet though, so please don’t ruin the surprise. And don’t forget to bring a heavy, blunt object along with you, like a bat or golf club (just in case…)