1-Lucas Radebe returns
The Chief returned to Elland Road yesterday receiving a hero’s welcome. The South African’s famous beaming smile set Elland Road into chorus of “Radebe Radebe” much to the annoyance of the visiting supporters. Radebe is a legend in West Yorkshire after representing the Whites between 1994 and 2005. His influence as captain during those Champions League years will never forgotten by fans and his former teammates.
2-Press food
This at the time felt like the pinnacle of my day, a sense of scepticism in the air with high flying Brighton the visitors to Elland Road was forgotten momentarily thanks to some lovely grub. Having experienced Tottenham Hotspurs Chilli Con carne last year, Leeds United’s press food just edged it by supplying complimentary Chicken Curry accompanied by a delightful naan bread. Amongst all the excitement I did stay level enough headed to acknowledge the traditional burger vans just a stone’s throw away. I will be visiting those vans again soon, never forget your roots.
3-Bamford is back
A deflected strike making the score 1-1 resurrected Bamford back to life on the brink before half time. The second half saw the striker doing the dirty work that established him as a key player during the Marcelo Bielsa era of dominance. On the hour he was replaced by a Rodrigo who hasn’t struggled finding the back of the next when fit.
4- Return of Rodrigo
Could Rodrigo be the difference between Leeds and those struggling around them in the relegation battle? The Spaniard entered the field on the hour mark to the delight of the Leeds faithful. In a matter of minutes Rodrigo was picking up positions between defenders no other player in a white shirt would think of. However, it was clear to see he did lack match sharpness with a few sloppy touches in the final third. This along with the result can be one of the positives the Whites can take away from the game.
5- Gnonto-Ball boy
One of the brightest young players in the World, Wily Gnonto at the age of 19 is feared by defences across the league. In recent games the Italian has adopted a role off the bench hoping to attack a tiring opposition. In this game, his quick thinking allowed Jack Harrison’s curling effort to nestle in the postage stamp corner of the goal. Jason Steele had no chance, he did however have time as the celebrations began to hunt down referee Paul Tierney pledging for the goal to not stand. Thanks to Willy’s reactions his grievances fell on deaf ears.