A frustrating night for Leeds on what was a cold winters night in Stoke. I almost believed that these type of so called ‘cursed’ nights were a myth (as I imagine myself career laughing with friends), but it turns out they are firmly placed alongside many miserable nights in the Championship.
Farke decided to make some rotations (why not), which seemed to be driven by a jam packed week of fixtures for the Whites. A debut for Gruev allowed him to experience some much needed game time and a return to the starting line up for Gnonto, who had been out injured in recent weeks. What could possibly go wrong?
The first half saw Leeds firmly on the back foot. Stoke had some quite effective players, with the likes of Vidigal causing some problems, but they didn’t look like a team that could cause Leeds any major problems.
We had our chances (as per), and should’ve scored when Piroe latched on to a great through ball, but he was denied, with Travers making a great save.
Leeds didn’t seem to be able to get into any rhythm before the break, we were second to every ball and seemed to be easily dominated by a well drilled, rough and ready Stoke side. Half time couldn’t come soon enough, we needed a reset, and the lads needed another motivational masterclass from Farke.
The second half wasn’t much better, but we at least looked like we’d got off the bus!! No changes, which is usually the case with Farke, who likes to give the team an opportunity for redemption.
If I’m honest though there didn’t seem to be a spark, the game looked destined for a draw, which would’ve probably been the right result in the end, but the Championship doesn’t work like that!
Rutter did his thing and made a mouthwatering pass through the Bamford, who was clearly taken down inside the box….Penalty!
I remember seeing him mumble to Rutter ‘I’m taking it’, to which I thought, well let’s hope he scores, yeah….it’ll be good for his confidence. Row Z is where it finished!! Oh dear. I could expand and moan, but for both our sanities, I won’t.
6 minutes later Stoke score from a set piece, which had me imagining that Ant and Dec meme. If only he had scored, things would be different, we’d all be smiling and enjoying the 3 points, but it was another typical Championship game of football.
Fans will be frustrated, players will be annoyed, especially after the tremendous high at Carrow Road, but it’s not meant to be easy (maybe if you’re Leicester), because we are Leeds and we always steer clear of anything remotely ordinary!
On to the next.
MOT
leedsloco.com 