The Best Kept Secrets

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 43

Robbie Blake's season ended today, he suffered a torn hamstring and will be out for anywhere between 2 and 3 months recovering from the injury, Bocanegra also suffered injury but will only miss the next couple of weeks with it. Next up for us is the visit of Reading before our top of the table crunch tie with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Derry was also complaining about first team football but Batty set him straight. I very much doubt he'll be with us next season should we gain promotion and with a few teams interested we should be able to fetch a good price for him.

Leeds United Vs Reading, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Bennett, Harding, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Horsfield, Healy. (Subs) Lancaster, Nyatanga, Richardson, Whelan, Hulse.

Again in my famailar seat i glanced over my programme as the teams were called out. Gregan returns from suspension and Bakke starts in place of the injured Blake. They won the coin toss and started of procedings with a bang. Jones cleared, Horsfield collected and after muscling past Fletcher he cut inside and curled one into the top corner after 4mins. We added another half way through the half after much pressure. Healy was bundled over in the area by Murty and Healy converted the resulting penalty, firing low to the keepers right. With half time approaching we were still very much in control. With Gregan and Jones we looked alot more solid at the back and just on the brink of the half we got ourselves another goal. Lewis teased the Reading defenders before crossing to an unmarked Horsfield who flicked it on and into the goal. Much better from us and we went in ahead by 3.

The second half gave us much of the same. We were dominating and powerful all over the pitch and we got a deserved 4th goal after 10mins of play. Murty again fouled what looked to be inside the area but a free kick was given instead. Lewis played it in and Healy's header hit the post before finding the back of the net. We were still dominating but Reading pulled a goal back. Convey found space to cross and our defence were asleep as Doyle flicked a header in at the near post. Reading's fight back was killed off shortly after however when Lewis powered down the left wing before playing it to Horsfield, he played the perfect ball across the goalmouth between defence and keeper for Healy to squeeze it in at the back post. With 10mins left Batty made changes, Hulse, Whelan and Richardson replaced Healy, Douglas and Bakke. It wasn't a frantic 10mins but we managed to find 1 more goal. Lewis' cross from his own half looked to be heading for the keepers arms but Hulse raced in out of nowhere and nicked it past him to round off another excellent win. The whistle brought an end to another classic night at Elland Road and we go away with a massive 12 point lead with 9 games left to play meaning 5 more wins and we would win the Championship. Healy got man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 6-1 Reading

The next morning while looking over the Leeds United website i discovered that Lewis picked up an injury last night and won't be fit for the trip to Crystal Palace at the weekend. A win over Palace would be another step closer to the going up as Champions. We are 14 points ahead of them in the league, a win for us would mean they'll have to battle it out with Southampton for the last automatic promotion place. The days leading upto the match were quiet and nothing worth mentioning really happened, i imagine that Batty was focusing all his thoughts on the big game and making sure his players were in the right frame of mind for it.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 44

Crystal Palace Vs Leeds United, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Bennett, Harding, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Douglas, Whelan, Walton, Bakke, Horsfield, Healy. (Subs) Lancaster, Nyatanga, Richardson, Derry, Hulse.

With the exception of Douglas moving to left midfield and Whelan starting alongside Walton the squad was unchanged from that which beat Reading a few days ago. I sent the missus into town to shop so i could concentrate of Jeff Stelling and the boys taking me through the days fixtures. 3pm came around and the game kicked off with Palace making the early chances...ok they were making all the chances. We were defending right to the last man, posing no problems at all to their defence and after 25mins of unrelenting pressure Palace took the lead. Macken recieved the ball out wide and crossed, Soares rose unmarked and glanced it into the top corner. We weren't looking good at all. It took us over half an hour to create our first chance and we made it count. Walton lifted a free kick into the area and Horsfield got above Halls to head it past a stunned Kiraly. We were looking like going in level but Palace broke down the right with Johnson, he crossed low, Gregan was nowhere to be seen and Macken finished off with a very easy tap in at the back post just before the half.

Kammy spoke of how the Leeds players were sent out 5mins early and it seemed to work as 10mins into the half we got an equaliser. Palace's many attempts the clear the ball failed, Whelan collect, played it right to Kelly and Horsfield beat 2 men to his cross and headed home for level the scores and it didn't stop there as 3mins later we were ahead. Whelan's free kick forced Kiraly to save and Douglas slid the ball into the back of the net to give us the lead. Things were looking up and it just kept getting better. Walton's cheeky back heel sent Healy free of the last man. Ward caught up, dragged him down and was soon heading for an early bath. With 20mins left Batty made changes, Nyatanga coming on for Douglas with Harding moving the left mid and Richardson coming on in a straight swap for Bakke. We were coasting now, looking for a killer goal but it's funny how things work out. A goal mouth scramble was cleared and the ball looked to be heading out for a throw but Boyce managed to keep it in by thumping it 60 yards down the line, Johnson collected it ahead of Jones and again Macken strolled in unmarked and tapped home the resulting cross to equalise. Batty was livid so i hear and when the final whistle went i knew we'd dropped 2 massive points. I suppose at the start a draw would have been welcome but after being a goal ahead and with an extra man, we can say 2 points were dropped however with Southampton also drawing it meant we were still very much on course. Walton was named man of the match.

F/T: Crystal Palace 3-3 Leeds United

The monday moring brought more injury worries. Gary Kelly and Ian Bennett join the injury list with both of them out for close to a month. Were in the middle of a injury crisis at the moment with 7 first team players out with injury which puts the last part of our season in a bit of bother with Lancaster and Jarvis likely to play a big part in the next few games. We only have 8 games left meaning we need just 4 wins to secure our place in the Premiership and take the Championship. Wednesday night came around as did the final second round Champions League game between AC Milan and Everton. Chelsea, Arsenal and Man Utd all went through a week before and despite a valiant effort the Toffee's bowed out, losing 2-0 in Italy meaning that Chelsea play Bayern Munich, Arsenal face Inter Milan and Manchester United will play AC Milan. Big games for all of our sides and alot of work to do for all of them should they want that place in the last 4.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 45

Leeds United Vs Preston North End, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Lancaster, Harding, Jones, Gregan ©, Richardson, Douglas, Derry, Walton, Bakke, Hulse, Healy. (Subs) Sulivan, Bocanegra, Soley, Whelan, Horsfield.

Definatly not a full strength side but it was the best we had going into this game. With Lewis, Warner, Bocanegra and Sulivan all returning to light training Batty's hand was forced to name 2 of them in the squad for this one. I flipped my seat down and got comfy, it was starting to get warmer now we were heading into spring so afternoons like this weren't as bad really. Preston got things started and we soon settled into pressing them for long periods, Hulse and Healy were linking well to create problems and the first goal soon came. Douglas cut inside and played in Hulse, he drove into the area, Lucketti tackled well but the ball sprang across the goal mouth and Healy finished things off. The lead didn't last long, Jones made a stupid challenge and gave away a penalty and Nowland converted, shooting down the centre. However, not to be outdone we pressed them and they folded easier than i thought they would. Hardings long clearence was collected by Hulse in the corner, he nutmegged his man and crossed for Healy who turned his back to goal and let rip with a fabulous overhead kick to restore the lead. Brilliant goal and his 22nd of the season. We continued to cause danger but nothing as clear cut as earlier and went in at half time 2-1 up and in control really.

The second half began tamely as both sides struggled to get a grip on the game but in true Leeds fasion we struck and extended the lead. Harding was brought down 30 yards from goal, Derry placed the ball and his effort cannoned off the wall, sending the keeper the wrong way before nestling in the oppesite corner. Lucky goal but we'll take it. Feeling a little hard done by i imagine Preston hit back straight away. Johnston beat a rather flat footed Richardson and his cross was met at the back post by Sedgwick who headed in past a static looking Lancaster. Batty, looking incenced by this swapped things around. Derry made way for Whelan and Horsfield came on for a tired looking Hulse. The change wasn't an instant one but we took control of the match again and soon found the killer goal. Douglas made his way down the left looking to cross, he was tackled, the ball spilled to the edge of the 18 yard box where Horsfield turned and released a rocketing shot which managed to go in despite being straight at the keeper but i can't blame him, i've seen slower cruise missles to be perfectly honest. Thats how it stayed, Horsfield and Jones came close to adding but neither did and we got the win we were looking for. 1 down, 3 more to go. Healy got the man of the match award.

F/T: Leeds United 4-2 Preston North End

When i finally got home (can't go to the football without having a few pints afterwards) i found that both Palace and Southampton had drawn once again so we now had a whopping 14 point lead at the top of the table. With just 7 games left it meant that we mathamaticly we still needed 3 wins but as far as the bookies were concerned it was all said and done and they began paying out on bets made on Leeds to win the league. My brothers and I handed our slips to our dad who on monday morning would be nipping down Mark Jarvis collect £120,000. He also had a novel idea "Lets use some of the cash and go to Germany for the England Brazil match." Now ya must be wondering how we were gonna get tickets when the competition is so close but my dad is a crafty old git and he said he'd make sure he got us 4 tickets for the game in some good seats. I left it with him, he's always been the blagger of the family so good luck to him.

Man Utd drew Liverpool in the F.A. Cup semi final while Chelsea play League Cup runners up Bolton. Should make for some good watching, personally i can see a Bolton-Liverpool final, but i suppose we'll have to wait and see. That was the only real piece of news going into our televised game against Luton Town. We'd be looking to heap more woe on them. Our rivals Palace and Southampton both registered wins to keep things interesting at the top.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 46

Luton Town Vs Leeds United, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Lancaster, Harding, Jones, Gregan ©, Richardson, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Horsfield, Healy. (Subs) Sulivan, Bocanegra, Soley, Derry, Warner.

Lewis and Warner returned from injury in time to be included in the squad, Lewis starts with Derry making way. We kicked off and started well. Healy was making life difficult for the defence with his quick and inventive play and it was he who got the opener after 25mins. Richardson played a free kick wide to the right, Bakke crossed at the byline and Healy glanced the header in off the underside of the cross bar. We soon had a second through Walton. He picked up Richardson's throw in on the right and looped a ball into the box which evaded everyone and found the far corner, a great goal but i doubt he meant it. We were cruising but again we made a silly mistake. Harding gave away a free kick just outside the area which was played short to Edwards, he crossed and former Leeds player Warren Feeney dinked the ball past Lancaster at his near post. Half time was called after that and we trotted inside.

For the second time in as many week we were out 5mins early, i imagine as punishment for the goal. Luton restarted the game and we again applied pressure to their back line. It took us 20mins to find a 3rd goal and it came from a big goalkeeping mistake. Lewis swept down the left wing at speed before cutting inside and crossing. The keeper looked to have it but it trickled through his hands and Walton steamed in to score his second of the game. Things got worse for Luton with 20mins to go as Sol Davis was sent off for a second bookable offence, with that we went for the kill but couldn't find it and again, a team with 10 men caused damage. Bakke gave the ball away in his own half to Smith and his looping cross to the back post was nodded in by Heikkinen with 4 mins left. Then, just as if it could get worse, Gregan got himself sent off for decent. We made changes with Derry, Bocanegra and Warner coming on for Douglas, Healy and Horsfield. In the dying seconds they hit the cross bar from a corner but we managed to hold on for the win. Healy was named man of the match...again.

Luton Town 2-3 Leeds United

With that game out the way it was now a fact of beating Coventry and Ipswich to be crowned champions. What bookies said would be the last thing we'd do this season is about to happen. However, a win against Coventry could be all we need if results go our way, a big if but Southampton are away to Norwich City who are very hard to beat at home. Paul Lancasters loan stay comes to an end but any hopes of extending it failed when Liverpool rejected our offer of renewal. In the Champions League Chelsea won 3-1 against Bayern Munich but Arsenal were crushed by 3-0 against Inter. The other game of the night was between Barcelona and Juventus at the Nou Camp, it ended 1-1. Liverpool also continued their Uefa cup adventure, they beat Palermo in the last round and were drawn against Roma who they beat in the first leg 3-1 at the Olimpico.

Friday morning i woke up to see that Batty has offered a contract to Slovenia's 21 year old goalkeeper Samir Handanovic, with Betis and Parma also in the running for him he could go the way of most of our transfer dealings this season.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 47

Leeds United Vs Coventry City, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Sulivan, Harding, Bocanegra, Jones, Richardson, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Horsfield ©, Warner. (Subs) Lund, Nyatanga, Soley, Whelan, Healy.

Going into this game we knew that a win for us and anything less than a win for Southampton would win us the league. Coeventry got the match started and they were very much in control for most of the half. They didn't look extremely dangerous but we didn't really have a sniff for the first 20-25mins. Gradually however the tide began to turn and Enckleman was forced into a string of fine saves to keep us a bay but they couldn't hold out forever and we had the lead just before half time. Bakke cleared the ball from his own half leaving Warner to streak ahead of his man and catch it. He held it up and went to square it for Horsfield, Duffy blocked with a header but the ball fell at the feet of Walton who had time to set himself before smashing it into the top corner. The fans went wild and Walton celebrated right infront of us with Batty on the touch line. Half time came around a few moments later and the teams headed off for a drink and a slice of orange.

The second half started much like the last one finished with us enjoying total domination over Coventry and it only took us 7mins to double our lead. Harding played the ball to Walton in the middle, he sent the ball into the box, Warner stretched to get a foot onto it, Enckleman saved brilliantly but Horsefield was quickest to the second ball and netted from 4 yards out. After the goal Batty brought Warner off for Healy and we continued to look the more dangerous of the two sides. Whelan and Soley found there way into the game with 15mins left, they came in for Bakke and Richardson who'd taken a knock. We had to wait until the last few minutes before we rounded things off. Soley collected the ball from Whelan, his miss-hit cross from deep crashed off cross bar and again Horsfield was quickest to it and he bundled it over the line. The only action of the game left worth mentioning was Marcus Hall being sent off for a rash challenge on Walton but after that the game ended, man of the match Bocanegra and the rest of the players stayed out on the pitch waiting for the results to come through over the tanoy,

"Leicester four Cardiff nil.......Millwall three Ipswich three.....Norwich nil...Southampton..nil.."

The ground erupted in an almighty cheer, the players were dancing around on the pitch as we invaded it. The place was absolutly electric as we mobbed the players, a massive chorus of "We are the Champions" went on for the next half an hour before we departed. Celebrations went on long into the night for us, we'd have one of the worst hang over's ever in the moring but we didn't care....Leeds United, Championship Winners 2005/2006 were going back to their rightful home in the Premiership!!!

The Board, players and fans praised David Batty for working wonders beyond belief, one spokesperson for the supporters club said they wanted a statue of Batty erected outside the stadium. In his playing days he was a hero to us, helped us win our last league title in 1992 and now he's done it again. Ken Bates said that anything seems possible with Batty as manager, here's an interview he conducted after the game.

Sky: "David, congratualtions...you've beaten all the odd's and secured not only a place in the Premiership but also the Championship title, how does it feel?"

Batty: "Bloody amazing, the players have been fantastic throughout the season. They've rose above the odd's in a fasion not many get to see and this day belongs to them and the fans, bloody amazing."

Sky: "Whats next for you and Leeds United?"

Batty: "Premiership football for years to come. It's gonna be tough but the players are prepared for it and fans have been baying for it ever since we were relegated. I'll be sitting down with the chairman to try and blag some cash for a spending spree in the summer come monday morning."

Sky: "David, congratualtions again and good luck for next season."

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 48

The next morning i woke up to find an evil monkey had kicked seven shades of ***** out of me and stole my money. I don't remember much about that night but i know it must have been good because it's 4:30pm and my head is throbbing like it never has before but for once the missus didn't have a go, she made me some food and let me watch the Simpsons...ah, life is good. I knew going to work tomorrow would be an utter pain in the arse but the missus would have a go if i didn't. After the game the monthly player awards were handed out once more, Lewis got player of the month and Walton scooped his 3rd young player award in a row. In the Premiership Chelsea had a 6 point lead over Arsenal, Liverpool lay in 3rd with 2 games in hand and Bolton were in 4th, 5 points clear of Man Utd in 5th. Here's the Championship as it stood at the start of April,

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

1. Leeds United (41) (30) (2) (9) (158) (53) 92pts (Champions)

2. Southampton (41) (22) (10) (9) (70) (50) 76pts

3. Crystal Palace (41) (21) (11) (9) (90) (54) 74pts

4. Norwich City (41) (19) (14) (8) (61) (35) 71pts

5. Hull City (41) (19) (12) (10) (60) (45) 69pts

6. Wolves (40) (18) (12) (10) (54) (39) 66pts

Scorers charts,

1. Matt Warner (Leeds United) 45 goals

2. Geoff Horsfield (Leeds United) 41 goals

3. Jon Macken (Crystal Palace) 27 goals

4. Andy Johnson (Crystal Palace) 23 goals

5. Stefan Moore (QPR) 23 goals

Carlos Bocanegra looks like he'll be leaving at the end of the season after Batty told him he can go when the season is finished. He has a release clause in his contract and with a few teams interested he'll more than likely leave during the summer. He hasn't been a cast iron performer but as long as we make money i won't be too concerned with him leaving, providing we bring someone else in. Mid week saw Gary Kelly resume full training again while Batty offered Matt Warner a new contract, wheather he will sign or not is unknown but it would be good if he did seeing as he's been one of our best players throughout the season. In the Champions League Juventus, Inter and Chelsea all went into the semi's while AC Milan beat Man Utd 2-1 at the San Siro in the first leg of they're quarter final tie.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 49

Ipswich Town Vs Leeds United, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Sulivan, Bocanegra, Jones, Gregan ©, Soley, Lewis, Whelan, Derry, Jarvis, Horsfield, Healy. (Subs) Bennett, Nyatanga, Kelly, Douglas, Hulse.

We went into the game as Champions, nothing really to play for but i doubt Batty would want his team to get rolled over. It was top Vs bottom today, Ipswich have been a massive disappointment this season, they are 3 points from safety as it stands. We kicked the match off what was, for the first half hour, a very tame match. We just didn't look like we cared while Ipswich lacked the quality to really trouble us but Soley decided to help them with that. He fluffed a bread and butter back pass which Motteram collected and smashed at Sulivan who looked to have saved it but ended up pushing it over the line. It looked an absolute shambles but we didn't lay down and take it. They were to make the next mistake, Derry tackled Berhalter as he dwelled on the ball, Healy collected and crossed for Horsfield to nod home. We failed to really press them again, we looked very out of sorts and just before half time it showed. A corner was met by the head of Naylor and it looped into the goal to give them the lead. Half time came around and the teams disappeared into the tunnel.

Not long after they emerged and got things going once more and we really got going. Lewis found space to thread a ball through to Horsfield, he held the ball before turning and cross, Healy finished off the move with a header to even up the scores. Again we decided to just sit back, as if we were inviting Ipswich onto us. With 20mins to go Batty made changes. Soley, Bocanegra and Jarvis came off for Kelly, Nyatanga and Douglas. Despite some fresh legs we still didn't have any spark and caused them no problems at all. The referee's whistle ended a rather drab affair but Ipswich will be happy with the point as they go into their last 4 games. Horsfield was named man of the match for his effort.

F/T: Ipswich Town 2-2 Leeds United

The following days were rather quiet, things seemingly dying down now the small business of the Championship title was now wrapped up but us Leeds fans got a massive shock when on tuesday Ken Bates announced that Batty had made 2 signings for the new season in the shape of Paolo Di Canio and Graham Stack who would both join on a free transfer in the summer. At 37 Di Canio isn't exactly one for the future but his experience and drive would aid us in our bid to escape the drop next season, Stack however is just 24 and looks a good prospect. Bates also announced in the press conference that Batty had made several more bids for players which he hoped to have wrapped up by the end of the week. I was still reeling a little from the Di Canio transfer though, good player but a bit volatile, maybe that would be a good thing. In the Champions League Man Utd join Chelsea in the semi finals after beating AC Milan 3-1. Giggs netted in the dying minutes to make it 2-1 to Man Utd after C. Ronaldo and Vieri kicked things off then Rooney scored in extra time to send them through, they will now face Juventus while Chelsea play Inter Milan.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 50

Our next game saw Sheffield United travel a few miles down the road to play us, hopefuly we can get a better result than we did last week against Ipswich now were back on home turf.

Leeds United Vs Sheffield United, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Hulse, Warner. (Subs) Bennett, Bocanegra, Soley, Whelan, Healy.

As i found my seat the fans were already into a full blown song of "We Are The Champions" which we promptly joined in on. The teams came out, our players getting an almighty cheer while there's a loud chant of "Who are ya?!" They kicked things off and kicked it off quickly. Again we looked very out of sorts and seemed to have gotten lazy thanks to our status as champions and we were punished with it 20mins into the first half. Fray provided the cross and Ifill beat Gregan to head it past Sulivan to give them the lead and silence the home support, myself included. It didn't last, just like the Ipswich game we rallied and soon found an equaliser. Kelly looped a cross to the edge of the area, Hulse headed down and Warner shot on the half volley leaving Paddy kenny with no chance. We looked a little more lively after that but failed to make any big chances. Half time was called by the referee and the teams disappeared down the tunnel.

A little bit of crowd trouble delayed kick off by 5mins but when it did we took the lead. Some good build up play from Douglas and Gregan saw the ball fed into the box and Warner was there to hit an acrobatic volley in at Kenny's near post. His form has been better of late and is still hoping for a place in Sven's world cup squad. After that we pressed for another and looked very much in control. Batty made changes, Hulse coming off for Healy and Douglas making way for Whelan. As i said, we were very much in control but again we lapsed and they found a goal. Jagielka wellied a ball foward, Jones miss controled and Robertson hit home from 18 yards into the bottom corner to level the scores. We didn't threaten them again after that and neither did they, final whistle went, Warner got man of the match but we've become very tame of late...

F/T: Leeds United 2-2 Sheffield United

Despite the disappointing result Batty found a way to cheer us up by completing a deal to bring 24 year old Italian right winger Andrea Gasbarroni in on a free. It's another good transfer coup for us as Bates and Batty attempt to build a side that can keep us in the Premiership next season. The monday also brought our top of the table clash against Southampton at the St. Mary's stadium. It was a meaningless tie for us but Palace were right up Southamptons arse in the chase for the last automatic promotion place.

Southampton Vs Leeds United, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Bennett, Bocanegra, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Lewis, Douglas, Whelan, Bakke, Horsfield, Healy. (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Richardson, Walton, Hulse

The game kicked off and we seemed to have snapped out of our little lazy streak by taking control in the early exchanges. Horsfield and Healy were making problems for the Saints back line and we almost got the lead after quarter of an hour. Healy sprang away from his man to catch Bakkes long pass, he looked to square it to Horsfield in the box for a simple tap in but Bromby slid in with a last ditch tackle to clear. The game carried on like this for a short while before Southampton found their feet and making the game an end to end encounter. However home field advantage is a big thing and they drew first blood. Gregan was left flat footed on the right by Kosowski and his hard hit cross found Belmadi at the back post who side side footed it home just before half time. Disappointing for us as again we conceded the first goal. Half time came without anymore incident.

The second half was a much different affair as we dominated throughout, it took us a while to really get in our stride but when we did Southampton had no answer. 20mins into the half we finally got an equaliser. Horsfield rose high and nodded Gregan's pass down, Healy slipped in ahead of Bromby and then skipped past Griffin before side footing a nice little shot around Niemi to level the scores. We continued to press them but they were defending well and with that Batty made a change, Richardson coming on for Bakke at right mid. We kept on at them, Healy coming close after he rounded the keeper but his shot hit the side netting and Lewis' header was just over the bar. We did finally end our drawing streak. Again Horsfield rose above his marker, his headed pass was collected by Douglas who sped through the gap in the defence and smashed into the top corner from 15 yards out. The traveling support were in raptures and more songs and chants began even though we were in the last few minutes. Southampton threw it all forward and we almost caught them off guard when Whelan intercepted a pass and released Healy, he charged at goal but his cheeky lob was just tipped over by Niemi. The whistle blew, a huge cheer followed from our fans. Douglas got man of the match and we were happy.

F/T: Southampton 1-2 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 51

The week passed rather tamely once more, Wednesday saw the Champions League semi final with both our sides losing in Italy. Juventus beat Man Utd 2-1 and Chelsea were pipped 2-0 by Inter. Petr Cech suffered injury during the match and will miss 2 months as a result. Liverpool went one step closer to the Uefa cup final as they beat Rangers 2-1 at Anfield. Porto and Hertha Berlin contest the other semi final.

Leeds United Vs Cardiff City, Championship: (Starting Line-Up) Bennett, Bocanegra, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Horsfield, Warner. (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Richardson, Whelan, Hulse

It was our last home game of the season, the place was packed, absolutly rammed to the raffters. We'd lift the trophy today after all was said and done. Kick off was delayed due to crowd conjestion but come 6pm we'd kicked off. However we didn't start they way we wanted as Cardiff took the lead early on. Laspalles hoofed the ball from inside his own half towards our area and McDonald managed to just get a foot to it and sent the ball looping over Bennett. Gregan didn't look pleased but it didn't last long as we responded almost straight away. Bakke was hauled down just outside the area, Warner lobbed the free kick into the box and Horsfields head sent the ball into the net to even things up. Cardiff were still having more of the game but against the run of play we took the lead. Gregan hoofed the ball clear from his own area, Horsfield nodded it on leaving Warner to streak onto it before sweeping it past the oncoming keeper. Great goal and his 53rd of the season...incredible. It became a little quieter after that and half time soon came around, we went in with the lead and smiles on our faces.

The second half added to our smiles. We almost added straight after but Warner's free kick hit the post before being cleared. Our 3rd goal finally came and it was in the shape of a penalty. Bakke did well down the right, he played the ball ahead of Walton but he was fouled and the ref pointed to the spot. Warner converted it with ease and the crowd were ecstatic. With 15mins left we added another goal. Lewis played the ball into Horsfield's feet, he flicked it on and Warner angled a drive low past the keeper to complete his hat-trick. Again, we loved it and the young lad looked back on form just in time for the World Cup. We came close to adding more as did Cardiff, only difference is they managed to pull one back thanks to an absolute shambles piece of defending. With 3mins left Cooper drove down the left wing and crossed but both Bennett and Douglas went for the same ball, ended up tackling each other and Foran tucked it away past the floored pair of idiots. The final whistle soon came and there was a rapturous cheer as we celebrated a win and lifting the trophy. Gregan got the honours and as he lifted it the whole stadium erupted in a defening cheer. Another brilliant day at Elland Road.

F/T: Leeds United 4-2 Cardiff City

Sunday morning brought the revelation that Leverkusen and Gladbach had they're £1.5m offers for Carlos Bocanegra accepted and would more than likely leave while Freddy Guarin, a promising 19 year old central midfielder looks set to join us in the summer for £1.7m. He's already had 2 caps for Columbia and looks ready to make the step up to a bigger stage. Batty was starting to make some big moves in the transfer market, offers for Tudor, Legrottaglie, Mido and Vayrynen were all sent out. Contracts were offered to Smertin who was available on a free transfer. If we got all those, i doubt we'd have any problem staying up next season, also makes me wonder where were getting all our money from as were now upto almost £9m worth of transfers with more looking to come in during the summer. Chelsea will play Man Utd in the F.A. Cup final in Cardiff, Chelsea beat Bolton 2-1 while Manchester United disposed of Liverpool, winning 1-0.

During the week Freddy Guarin agreed to his move, pending a work permit, Bocanegra seal the deal with Leverkusen and Batty had offers for Mika Vayrynen and Igor Tudor accepted, both offers are believed to be around the £1.5m mark and would be a massive coup in the transfer market should they sign. In the Champions League both our sides crashed out. Man Utd drew with Juventus but it wasn't enough while Chelsea were beaten 3-2 to make it they're 3rd unsuccessful Champions League semi final. Inter Milan will play Juventus in an all Italian final which, strangely enough will take place in the Olimpico, Rome. Elsewhere Liverpool will Play Hertha Berlin in the Uefa Cup final, with Hertha having home field advantage as it takes place in Dortmund.

Crewe Alexandra Vs Leeds United, Championship: (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Jones, Gregan ©, Kelly, Lewis, Douglas, Walton, Bakke, Healy, Warner (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Richardson, Whelan, Hulse.

Our final game of the season, we had nothing to play for but Crewe would be looking for points in order to keep their place in the Championship. The sun beamed down as we kicked things off, and it was Crewe who took the iniative after 3mins. Tonkin found himself with acres of space on the left and his cross found an Cochraine unmarked and he headed into the top corner powerfuly. Our defence was all over the shop but we managed to get one back after 10mins of play. Lewis looked dangerous and after beatening 2 men he kept the ball moving and crossed to the back post where Bakke nipped in and headed it past the oncoming keeper to score in his last as a Leeds Utd player. Crewe however kept finding ways to make our defence look like a circus act and almost got lucky when we failed to clear but Johnson blazed his effort over. We made out chances count as Lewis again made the Crewe defence look like statues. He rounded 3 men, layed off to Healy who played it across the goal mouth for Warner to bundle it in under pressure. They had more attempts at goal and dominated until half time but we still had the lead after the first 45mins and i suppose we could be happy with that.

The second half started much the same as the first one ended, with Crewe very much dominating. Crewe battered our goal for the entire half, Hulse and Richardson came on as both Warner and Kelly hobbled off with injury. The match was turning into a real bruiser with the physio's doing more running than they have all season. The last few mins saw them through everyone, including the keeper forward where possible. We had a few chances to break clear but didn't make anything of it and finally the whistle blew after 96mins of football. Crewe were relegated, we were Champions and Jones was named man of the match.

F/T: Crewe Alexandra 1-2 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 52

The season was finished, after a long long haul it was all over and done with for us. Smertin decided against Leeds and went for Newcastle instead. Tudor snubbed us completely and Guarin's transfer ran into a bit of trouble after his first work permit application was turned down but after an appeal it was granted and he'll join us after the World Cup. Speaking of that, my dad the blag artist somehow managed to get us flights, accomodation and tickets for the opening game of the tornement between Brazil and England. We'd leave in a few weeks and i was already excited. Horsfield, Walton and Batty all picked up gongs in the monthly player awards, Chelsea won the Premier League again after streaking away from the pack in the final few games. Liverpool finish second with Arsenal and Manchester United in 3rd and 4th, they will play Champions League football next season which is really cruel on Bolton who have been amazing this term, they finished 5th. Wigan, Fulham and Man City were relegated to Championship football for next season although it went down to the last day in terms of Man City's relegation.

In the Championship, we finished a whopping 16 points ahead of Crystal Palace who took the last automatic promotion space (Thanks largely to us beating the saints) while Southampton, Norwich, Wolves and Hull will fight it out in the play-offs. The next few days were quiet really. The Premiership and other leagues were beginning to wind down and people were getting ready for the World Cup. The squads haven't been announced yet but i reckon a few Leeds players will be in there for a few different countries. The days were quiet pretty much now, Wolves and Southampton will meet in the first Play-Off final at new Wembly to decide who goes to the Premier League. Liverpool won the Uefa cup, beating Hertha Berlin 3-0. Cisse got the first and Crouch netted 2 in injury time to seal a second European trophy for Rafa's reds. Man Utd won the F.A. Cup, beating Chelsea 3-1. They scored 3 goals in 8 first half minutes. Van Nistelrooy, Gallas and Rooney all netted, Gujohnsen netted one for Chelsea just before half time.

Chelsea, deciding they didn't have enough strikers made a whooping but unsuccessful £25m bid for Matt Warner. I'm seriously beginning to think that were going to have a hard time turning down an increased offer for the lad. He's become the most sought after player in the the country, if not in Europe, after his amazing 56 goal haul this season. I think if Chelsea crack the £30m we could see him leave, which is the last thing i want. Everton, Arsenal and Charlton all made offers for Jonathan Douglas, he's another one i was hoping we could keep but it looks like the £3.5m Blackburn want is out of our reach, all we can do is thank him and wish him luck for the future. Spurs and Rangers have also been showing interest in Geoff Horsfield, who has a minimum fee release clause of £1.5m, he's been amazing and thanks to his goals this season, he's become a very sought after player. Not bad for £140k. Inter Milan were crowed European champions after they beat Juventus 2-0. Adriano and Martins got the goals which gives them their first European cup in 41 years.

Southampton thrashed Wolves 3-0 in the play-off final. Dicov, Kanu and Blackstock sealed the win with well taken goals to put Southampton back in the Premier League. The English Championship select went like this..Bennett, Kelly, Bocanegra, Gregan, Harding, Jones, Walton, Douglas, Lewis, Warner, Horsfield. An entire Leeds United 11 was what was voted as the best combinded side. Matt Warner was voted as fans player of the year. Batty was named manager of the year while Warner picked up the golden boot and goal of the season. After that, the players went away for their holidays and my dad, brothers and i traveled to Germany for the World Cup.

Here's a quick end of season rundown of the league and cup winners from around europe,

Premiership: Chelsea

F.A. Cup: Manchester United

Carling Cup: Arsenal

Champions League: Inter Milan

Uefa Cup: Liverpool

Serie A: Juventus

La Liga: Real Betis

Portuguese Premier: Porto

German First Division: Bayern Munich

Dutch Premier: Ajax

Scottish Premier: Celtic

Thats about it really. I'll more than likely report on the World cup but otherwise, ciya next season, COME ON ENGLAND!!!!!!

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 53

Matt Warner was picked for England's World Cup squad, with Owen out with a torn hamstring it means the jury is out on who will partner Rooney upfront. Andy Johnson, Jermaine Defoe, Darren Bent and Warner are all in contention for a place in the starting line up come June 7th when the tornement kicks off. Motherwell made a £750k bid for Richardson but Batty is believed to have told them that if they bid £1m they can have him. It remains to be seen if they will but Wigan have also been keeping tabs on the lad. He didn't really impress for us this season so maybe it's time for him to move onto another club.

Brazil Vs England, World Cup group A: (Starting 11, left to right) Robinson, Cole, Terry, Campbell, Neville ©, Downing, Gerrard, Lampard, Wright-Phillips, Rooney, Defoe.

The sun blazed down as we finally found our seats, which were good so hat off to my dad for that one. A few shocks in the starting line up, especially the lack of Ferdinand and Beckham. England won the coin toss and started the 2006 World Cup. Brazil started the better but in truth neither side were impressive. Both defences were solid and neither keeper was forced into a save, half time was a relief, hopefuly Sven could pump some much needed life into the boys and get the goal.

When the game restarted things perked up a little bit, Wright-Phillips hit the bar and Rooney forced a brilliant save from the rebound. Brazil also had their chances, Ronaldo brought the very best from Robinson after a looping header. with 20mins to go we got the sight we all wanted to see. Defoe came off and into the fray went Matt Warner from little old Leeds United. We began chanting his name the moment he was on the pitch. Beckham came on for Wright-Phillips and Konchesky replaced Downing on the left. The game once more became boring and it ended with a whimper, Sol Campbell was man of the match but no one really impressed. We paid money for this? I suppose it was worth it though, the atmosphere was great and seeing one of our home grown lads in an England shirt, playing against the top team in the world made the experience all the better.

F/T: Brazil 0-0 England

After the game Matt Warner gave an interview to the waiting media expressing how proud he was of his first cap, he went onto thank David Batty for helping him achieve another dream and went onto add that he's proved that players don't always have to come from top flight clubs to make it on the international scene. There was another big shock however when Australia beat Argentina 4-1, Kewell inspired them to victory with 2 goals. Warner made another 2 apperence for England in the other group matches. The first in our 2-0 win against Jamaica and the second in the 2-2 draw with Ghana. Thanks to that draw it means that Brazil win the group we go through in second place. Rooney picked up injury against Ghana but will more than like return should we beat... Who do we play? Wait and see...

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 54

England Vs Germany, World Cup 2nd round: (Starting 11) Robinson, Cole, Ferdinand, Terry, Neville ©, Downing, Gerrard, Lampard, Wright-Phillips, Defoe, Warner.

Here we were, on the brink of another epic showdown between the worlds biggest rivals. The stage was set for a classic and as the teams kicked off, little did we know how much of a classic it would turn out to be. Gemany started the better, Ballack making a pest of himself and it was he who got them the lead after just 9mins. Deisler played the ball to the edge of the area, Neville and Terry turned themselves inside out trying to get the ball and as it sprang loose Ballack laced it towards goal, it nicked off Terry's leg and tricked in to give the Germans the lead. They kept on pressing but found nothing, slowly the game turned and we had the upper hand but weren't doing anything with it. The minutes were ticking down to the end of the first half when Downing lofted the ball up the left, Defoe helped it on and Warner collected, moving into the area at speed before setting himself and slotting it between keeper and post to equalise and give the nation what it's been dying for.

Half time came soon after and the tempo we carried at the end of the first half filtered through to the second half. We hit the cross bar through Lampard, Downing looked dangerous and Warner was making life hell for the German back line. Sven made changes half way through, Wright-Phillips made way for Beckham while Bent came on for Defoe. Then, with the whole world watching, we struck again. Downing blazed down the left wing once more, cut inside and knocked a through ball for Warner, he collected and under pressure dinked the ball over Lehman and into the net, the crowd went mad as did the entire country. With 15mins left we led the bloody Germans on their own turf. But, that home turf gave them the edge to equalise. Deisler delivered the corner and Metzelder headed home, we had the lead for all of 5mins but we kept our chins up and went at them again. They held out and we were heading for extra time and maybe, the dreaded penalty shoot-out.

We kicked off the first half and it couldn't have started worse for us. Schweinsteiger tricked his way into the box and Neville, the idiot, hacked him down. He was sent off, jeers and cheers followed as he walked to the tunnel. Ballack stepped up, but he went straight down the middle, Robinson was wise and pushed the ball away with his foot. With that though we pressed them more and in the second half of extra time we again took the lead. Bent was brought down 20 yards from goal, Warner wanted the ball but Beckham was having none of it and just like against Greece 5 years ago he stepped up and curled one straight into the top corner. The entire team wheeled away in celebration as Goldenballs had pushed us into the lead once more. But again, it didn't last. Another corner for them wasn't cleared and Deisler bundled it in and they were level again. It was nerve destroying, i was shaking throughout and my shakes got worse when full time was called and the dreaded penalty shoot out lay ahead of us. The most fear instilling moment in a game is this.

Beckham would take the first one, part of me wanted to leave the room but another part wouldn't let me. He stepped up and coolly slotted it home. Next up, Ballack. He looked confident in front of his home fans as he stepped up but again Robinson got down well to his left and saved, all that could be heard was the England fans cheering. For us, Bent would take the next one, the young Charlton striker. Lot of pressure for a kid his age but thankfuly it didn't show as he strolled up and stroked it low to the keepers right to give us a firm advantage. Schweinsteiger was to be they're taker for this one. He again was a young 'un. He took a short run up, fired down the middle but Robinson's knee saved it and we were one step closer to the Quarter finals. This was an epic, Cole began his walk to the penalty spot. He placed the ball how he wanted it, took a deep breath and layed it low, sending the keeper the wrong way. Deisler had to score, there was no other way around it. It was do or die for the Germans, we had them where we wanted them. He placed the ball down, took a few steps back, never taking his eye off the ball. Everything slowed as he began to run up...closer and closer he got before his foot struck the ball...up...up....OVER!!!! YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We'd done it, we'd bloody done it...the German's were out, 10 man England had just knocked the hosts out of the World Cup...nothing was sweeter than this! I ran out onto the street yelling at the top of my lungs...i was in heaven.

After i'd calmed down i found out that Warner was rightfuly named man of the match for his effort. Well deserved, he was amazing today. He just keeps getting better and better.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 55

The day after the game Leeds announced that in the early hours they had recieved 2 bids in excess of £35m for Matt Warner from Chelsea and Inter Milan. Both bids were rejected but, it really can be only a matter of time before Bates buckles and decides to cash in. I hope to god they don't, i think he's the key to our Premiership survival. Real Madrid also expressed an interest in him as a 3-way battle for what now seems the worlds hottest prospect had begun. In the other match of the day, there was another massive massive shock and Australia were again the source of it as they knocked world champions Brazil out by beating them 2-1, again inspired by Harry Kewell.

A few days later and it was the quarter final. England came from behind against Spain to win. Xavi gave them the lead in the 4th minute but goals from Warner and Andy Johnson sealed another big win to take us one step closer to final. In the other quarter final ties Australia beat Morocco in a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw at the end of normal time. The USA pulled off another shock, beating France 3-2 after extra time while Italy felled Holland 2-1. The days passed slowly, the whole nation in a state of excitement and soon enough the semi final was upon us. England took on the USA and finally, after so much hurt and pain, we'd be going to another World Cup Final. Beckham and Ferdinand netted as we beat them 2-0 while Italy knocked out the tornements suprise package Australia (what were they on?) to set up what could be an epic final.

England Vs Italy. World Cup Final 2006, Olympiastadion, Berlin

(England Starting 11) Robinson, Cole, Terry, Ferdinand, Neville ©, Downing, Gerrard, Lampard, Wright-Phillips, Rooney, Warner.

(Italy Starting 11) Buffon, Zambrotta, Cannavaro, Nesta, Oddo, Di Natale, Pirlo, Gattuso ©, Camoranesi, Vieri, Toni.

Me, my dad, my brothers settled in at the local, the big screen was ready, the place was rammed and we were already chanting and cheering as the teams were led out by their respective captains for what would be the biggest game of their professional careers. The disappointment of the last 40 years seemed to have disappeared, in Warner and Rooney we had two of the most talented young forwards on the face of the planet, in Lampard and Gerrard we had the two best midfielders in the game today. In Terry and Ferdinand we had the best central defenders in the world. Here it was, the biggest football match in the history of our long sporting history. Many managers have tried and failed, Sven had us in the final, he'd done all he could, now it was down to 11 players, 90mins and maybe, a bit of luck.

The whole pub stood as the national anthem sounded, everyone singing along. The atmosphere was electric and soon after, the players were ready to get started. We kicked things off and the nerves started to kick in for me. Italy had the better of the opening exchanges, a corner brought a little bit of a scramble before Terry cleared to safety. After a shaky 10-15mins we settled and began to play some good looking football, Rooney was beginning to torment the Italian back four and Gerrard and Lampard were getting the better of Gattuso and Pirlo in the middle. The whole pub cheered everytime Warner got a touch on the ball, he'd become a local hero to us and despite his first chance being so far wide it almost went for a throw in, he was starting to show why he's been linked with the worlds biggest clubs. After 35mins Lampard came ever so close with a incredible 35 yard drive which had Buffon completely stumped as it skimmed the cross bar. We continued to play well and in truth began to dominate, hussling the Italians off the ball and making life difficult for them in general. Lampards effort was the closest we'd come to seeing a goal as the half time whistle was blown. The teams wandered off down the tunnel out from under the intence German sun.

After a couple of adverts and Gary Lineker talking alot the teams emerged with an almighty cheer from the entire country i imagine. The Italians made a change at half time, Toni coming off for Del Piero and they kicked the second half off after the refs whistle. The opening seconds brought a chance for us, Neville worked well down the right unchecked before playing it into Gerrard's feet. He turned, set himself and unleashed a shot at goal which looked to be heading in but the hands of Buffon prevented it and Warner could do nothing with the rebound from such a tight angle. Both sides were starting to play with alot of caution, sitting deep. It was a match of two contrasting styles. The Italians played a very cautious game, lots of build up play, not being forced to make a move while we went for the direct approach, playing through balls, looking for the runs behind the defence. Neither side was giving an inch. Cole was starting to impress, showing his better qualities with strong running down the left, linking well with Downing.

Both sides were struggling to find an opening. With Rooney and Del Piero both dropping back to pack the midfield at times it was looking a little bit bleak. With half hour left both sides decided to make changes in an effort to gain the edge, for Italy Di Vaio and Zauri came on for Vieri and Di Natale to finish they're changes for the final push while Beckham and Defoe came on for Wright-Phillips and Matt Warner. He'd done well but now it was upto his team mates to find the telling goal. Italy started to come into the game alot more, on 65mins Di Vaio skipped past Cole on the left before squaring it for Gattuso who's shot went just wide of Robinsons right hand post. Both sides were still struggling to break the other down, with 15mins left on the clock Eriksson threw on his last subs, Konchesky coming on for Downing. We were resorting to long ball football, hit and hope and it didn't look good really. Italy were trying to break us down with little effect and the game started to become a battle of wills, a game of chicken if you will. Who dares make the adventurous play at the risk of getting caught short. Neither side looked like they would but there was still time for it.

We were into the last 5 minutes of normal time. The game was much the same, both sides refusing to break. Di Vaio had the first shot we'd seen in a while when he collected from Pirlo, turned and volleyed towards goal but the effort was well over and no trouble to Robinson. A few moments later Italy again came forward, Camronesi played the ball towards Di Vaio on the edge of the area and Ferdinand fouled stupidly giving them a free kick and a golden oppertunity but Pirlo's curled effort was well well wide of the mark and only just went out for a goal kick. The 90mins ended soon after without incident and we were into extra time, the sides changing halves for the kick off after a short break. The action was slow and to be honest boring at times, a goal didn't look on the cards at all as most of the game was played out in the midfield. With 5mins left of the first half Defoe won a corner for us but again we wasted it and it was cleared with ease.

The half ended and i for one was preparing myself for a penalty shoot out. The way this game was looking i'd probably eat my hat if it didn't finsh with spot kicks. However i was almost proved wrong, Konchesky kicked it up a gear, skinning Oddo down the left before putting in a brilliant cross for Defoe who'd header forced Buffon to produce a world class save in order to keep the scores level. Again we wasted the resulting corner and the game ended, meaning the dreaded penalty shoot out but on the bright side, at least i don't have to eat my hat.

We would take the first one, with Beckham placing the ball. Beckham ran up, struck and Buffon saved, b****cks!!!

For Italy Del Piero stepped up looking confident and he smashed the ball into the top corner...

Lampard made his way to the spot and placed the ball down, he turned, made his run up and scored, low and hard....

Oddo was next up for the Italians, he didn't look overly confident but bagged it anyway... just....

Defoe would take our next one. Again the ball was set right, he stepped up and sent it low to the keepers right, goal....

Pirlo for the Italians. Robinson tried to make himself big, Pirlo ran, shot and scored with ease....

Terry started to move towards the area. Buffon was in position, Terry was ready, he ran up..... tucked it away...

Di Vaio. Juventus forward. Steps up, looking confident and scores.... were in trouble....

Our last penalty, Ashley Cole must score. The ball was placed on the spot, he took a few steps back, strode up and ... scored!..

Here it was. Robinson Vs Nesta. Nesta scores, they win. Robinson saves and it's game on...Nesta steps up........ SAVED!!!

Sudden death was upon us now and we would take the first one.

Konchesky... left footer.... sets the ball.... takes a deep breath and......SCORES!

"Camoranesi..... he has to score or England win.... prepares himself one last time ...Camornesi........... IT'S SAVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ENGLAND HAVE DONE IT, ENGLAND HAVE WON THE WORLD CUP.... AMAZING SCENES HERE!!!!!"

The nation exploded in a cheer that could probaly be heard around the world and beyond. We'd done it, the little island had done it!!!! Beer was flying all over the place but who cares? We'd just won the World Cup and nothing else mattered to us right now. 40 years we'd been waiting....40 years since Bobby Moore lifted the cup that crowned England as the best team in the world...we suffered in Mexico twice, felt the pain in Italy and were caught short in South Korea but finally, we were world champions again and we did it the back yard of our most hated rivals! GET IN!!!!

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 56

After a 4 day hang over and alot of toilet trips me and the missus went on holiday for a week to America, couple of days in vegas then in New York. It was a good trip....made even better when she told me she was pregnant and we'd have another little Leeds fan to add to the family. My parents were ecstatic and when we got back they laid on a big party to celebrate. After things had settled down i caught up with what's been going down at Elland Road. The new season was not far away, we were just about to start our pre season fixtures. Our opening 5 matches were against West Brom, Bolton, Middlesborough, Chelsea and Man Utd. Here's a run down of all the in's and out's over the summer.

Out

Peter Leven, £200k to Celtic

Frazer Richardson, £1m to Motherwell

Gylfi Einarsson, £500k to Cardiff City

Rob Hulse, £4m to Everton

Carlos Bocanegra, £1.5m to Leverkusen

Shuan Derry, £1.5m to Bolton Wanderers

Erik Bakke, Free to Leicester City

Robbie Blake, £2.5m to Spurs

In

Paolo Di Canio (ST/AMC), free from Lazio: At 38 he's not really going to be a regular but handy to have as he gives that little bit extra experience to the younger lads.

Graham Stack (GK), free from Arsenal: Good keeper, young and talented, nice to see some back up for Bennett. Only 24 so plenty still to come from him i think. Good pair of hands.

Andrea Gasbarroni (AMR), free from Juventus: 24 year old right winger. Pacey, creative, good dribbler and an excellent crosser of the ball. Has the ability to play for his country if he can find the form and progress well.

Freddy Guarin (DMC/MC), £1.7m from Envigado: 20 years old but already played for his country. He's an excellent central midfield prospect. Stong and creative, could forge a brilliant partnership with Walton in the future.

Mika Vayrynen (AMC), £1.1 from PSV: A 24 year old attacking midfielder, not very pacey but good passer of the ball, great dribbler and knows where the goal is. Can also play on the right if need be.

Peter Sweeny (AML), £900k from Stoke: 22 year old Scottish left winger. Quick, good dribbler and plenty of potential. Another one for the future i reckon.

Zaza Karim (GK), free from Brondby: He's 31, good hands and excellent reflexes. Brought in as experienced cover for Bennett and not bad seeing as we paid nothing.

Arnold Kruiswijk (DC), £2m from FC Groningen: Only 21 years of age but a consistant perfomer at his last club. Great tackler, stong and fast and will more than likely be a main stay in our team this season and for many seasons to come i hope.

Didier Zokora (DMC/MC), £1.5m from St. Etienne: 25 year old utility man. Can play as a central midfielder or in the heart of defence. Good passer, great at tackling and very strong. Batty says he will play him as a midfielder though.

Clive Clarke (DL/ML), £1.2m from West Ham: A 26 year old left back. He'll provide better cover than Nyatanga will. He can tackle, dribble and cross well. More than likely a starter in most games.

Ricardo Vaz Te (ST/AMC), loan from Bolton: 19, quick, cleaver and determind. Here on a season long loan. Already won 2 caps for Portugal and looks to be a big star for the future. Can play as a striker or left winger. Hopefuly become a perminent signing at the end of the season.

David Dunn (AMC/R), £1.3m from Birmingham: Showed alot of promise early on in his career but suffered badly with injuries. Good buy for as he's still just 26. Very creative, good dribbler and can weigh in with a fair few goals. Can play centre mid or right wing.

Pedro Silva (DR), £1.8m from Palmeiras: 25 year old right back. Quick, good in the tackle, strong and can cross well. Will more than likely start ahead of the aging Gary Kelly.

Aaron Fray (DR), £1.2m from Sheff Utd: 19 year old right back with bags of potential. Played well for Sheff Utd last season and will be an understudy to Kelly. He's fairly pacey, good in the tackle and has the ability to cross and dribble well. One for the future.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 57

I was more than impressed with our new signings so far. More were on the way but i had no idea who but Bates has been calling for a high profile signing to be brought in which i wasn't going to complain about really as long as the player lived upto the hype. All the players had returned from their holidays, some were given extended leave like Warner and Lewis who both played in the World Cup and both did well, Lewis made it to the semi's with the USA while Warner... well you know what he did. Training was in full swing and the hype surrounding the start of the new season was growing ever larger with each day. Batty was still looking to add the finishing touches to his squad despite already spending £13m or so on new players and from what i've seen as reguards to the players he wants, he's still looking for another central defender with Matteo Ferrari looking the most likely target. There have been alot of rumours as to who else will come in before the start of the new season but the squad is already looking strong with some excellent young players and some seasoned professionals. All have skill, drive and the ability to become better players.

The odd's for the Premiership title was given out a few days before the season started with Chelsea and Arsenal being penned at 7-4 joint favourites with Man Utd at 2-1. We were given the odd's of 2000-1 however i doubt i'll be putting any money on it this time round. Eddie Lewis and Matt Warner were both offered new deals at the club and Bates seemed confident both will sign soon which would be a massive boost to us staying up, but with they're contracts running out next summer it could be a case of sign or leave. Lewis would fetch around £5m but Bates has said that any club wanting to sign Warner would have to make him the most expensive player in the world, but if we look like losing him on a free at any point we may accept whatever comes along.

Our pre-season wasn't a brilliantly impressive one if i'm honest. We destroyed Walsall 6-0, scraped past Watford 2-1 then drew with Aberdeen 0-0 before rounding it off with a 2-0 win over Oxford Utd. As i said, not brilliant by any means but Vaz Te looked lethal throughout the games he played, Kruiswijk looked very solid and Pedro Silva also impressed me with his driving runs down the right. Least impressive players for us were suprisingly Matt Warner and David Healy, neither looked very up for it and maybe a little bit lazy as well. A few days before the big kick off we completed the signing of Matteo Ferrari for £2.3m from Roma taking Batty's spending through the £15m mark. He spent last season on loan at Everton but signed a 3 year deal with us and looks likely to start against West Brom while Robbie Blake looks like he's on his way out, Newcastle, Charlton and Rangers all having their £2.5m offer accepted.

The day before the big kick off brought bad news and... well more back news. Geoff Horsfield slipped a disc and will be out for upto 3 months and Charlton activated his minimun fee relase clause. While i'll be sad to see him go we'd be getting £1.8m for him almost a year after we bought him for just £140k. Loan offers for Giuseppe Rossi and Jaime Alfonso Ruiz were sent out but if both transfers go through Batty will be looking to bring someone more perminent in i expect. Also Chelsea won the Community Shield, beating Man Utd 3-2.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 58

West Bromich Albion Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswjick, Ferrari, Silva, Vaz Te, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Healy, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Kelly, Guarin, Di Canio.

Here it was, it's been 2 years since we went down but it's seemed like a life time. Back in the top flight and playing with the big boys. Batty hands out debuts to 6 players but were looking thin on the ground in terms of striker cover. We won the coin toss and got ready to kick off. I was on my sofa at home, watching Soccer Saturday with eager antisipation of our first match back in the Premiership. We got things kicked off and did with a bang and a half. Vaz Te got the ball down on the left instantly after kick off, skinned 2 defenders before feeding the ball to Warner who was almost next to the near post and he directed it into the net to put us ahead after just 45 seconds of play, i was more than ecstatic i can tell you and it was about to get so much better. Vaz Te again caused trouble down the left, he knocked it along the line for Healy who was fouled. Gasbarroni whipped the free kick to the back post, Warner rose like a salmon and headed it into the back of the net after 4mins. Bloody amazing and all this after i was cursing him for missing a chance a moment earlier. We kept on pressing them, Vaz Te heading just over from Warner's free kick and Gasbarroni forcing a good save from Babos but things were about to get worse for West Brom. Gaardsoe who already picked up a booking got a second for fouling Healy and he was on his way to the dressing room after just 26 mins. We looked for more goals but the closet we came was Warner again streaking free but this time he hit the side netting. Half time came around and we were very much in control.

The second half began and again we had control, West brom looked to attack but every time they lost the ball we were driving forward at speed to find another goal. Walton came close after we broke away, Gasbarroni feeding him before his 25 yard effort was just tipped over by Babos but not long after they found themselves another goal down. Gasbarroni again drove forward through the heard of them, played the ball to Healy who delivered a first time flick into the run of Warner and he smashed it home for his hat trick. Poetry in motion really, a fantastic team goal, i also had the radio on listening and all you could hear were chants of "We'll be top by 5'o'clock". With 20mins left on the clock Batty made some changes with Di Canio coming on for Healy and Zokora, who had been superb, made way for Guarin. West Brom managed to get a goal back as Ferrari ruined his perfect looking debut by obstructing Earnshaw, he tucked it away with ease and power to make the score a little more respectable on their part. With just 4mins left it got a little bit stupid. It had been a pretty rough match but a silly challenge by Silva earned him a second yellow card and ruined his debut. The game died and soon it was over, big win for us but the game was ruined by two stupid mistakes. Matt Warner was named man of the match for his hat-trick performance.

F/T: West Bromich Albion 1-3 Leeds United

The same day Rossi joined on a season long loan from Man Utd while Blake and Horsfield completed they're moves to Charlton for total fee of £4.2m and Batty sought to use it straight away as we were very short on strikers going into our first home game of the season against Bolton. Silva would miss out though suspension, Vaz Te would also miss out as he can't play against his own club but Rossi would more than like start on the bench.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 59

Leeds United Vs Bolton Wanderers, Premiership: (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Kelly ©, Lewis, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Healy, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Fray, Guarin, Rossi.

It'd had been a while but i was finally settling into my seat once more with my brothers and dad in tow, it had also been a while since i sat in this seat and watched us play Premiership football. The sun was beaming down still despite it being nearly 8pm and as the teams strode out the crowd erupted in a massive cheer of support. They kicked things off but it was us who looked the more dangerous. Ferrari and Kruiswijk were taking all they threw at them in their stride and Gasbarroni and Lewis were causing problems on the flank. Out two best chances came through Lewis' play. First he found space to cross but Zokora's header was just tipped over and from the resulting corner Walton steamed in and headed just over the bar. We were largely in control of the game as half time beckoned.

The second half began and we again had the chances. Warner headed just wide while Healy won the ball from former Leeds man Derry and made a b-line for goal but the keeper got down well to save his shot. Not long after changes were made, Rossi came on for the largely unimpressive Warner while Gasbarroni was replaced by Fray and with quarter of an hour left Guarin came on for Zokora who looked to be struggling with a knock but the rest of the half produced nothing of interest. A very boring performance where neither side really looked upto the task. Zokora was named man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 0-0 Bolton Wanderers

The days after this match were slow and boring really. We still hadn't managed to find a new striker and were struggling a bit time wise with a little under 2 weeks left until the transfer window closed. A few offers were made but nothing official was let out by the club as to who they were bidding for. Middlesborough would be next for us away then Chelsea and Manchester United with the Man Utd game being televised. Vaz te and Silva both returned and Dunn looked like starting on the right of midfield for the M'brough game.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 60

Middlesbrough Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva, Vaz Te, Zokora, Walton, Dunn, Healy, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Kelly, Whelan, Rossi.

The game started at a fast pace and they made life difficult. Bennett was being made to work, producing three excellent saves in the opening 20mins alone. They're pace and creativity had us stumped a little as they pressued us througout the first half. We didn't get anywhere near the goal and again Warner and Healy looked poor and lazy if i'm honest and unless we bucked our idea's up we were gonna get a right old pasting. Kruiswijk was playing well, as was Silva but Bennett was the best player on the park as nothing looked able to beat him so far.

The second half started much the same, early on Hasselbaink headed just over after some good play by Downing and not long after we had our first real dig at them, Zokora finding space in the centre to have a go from distance but it blazed it over the bar. Shortly after Healy picked up a knock and he was replaced by Rossi but shortly after we went a goal behind. Downing delivered the free kick from the right and Hasselbaink headed home with power to give them a more than deserved lead. The play followed much the same route with them dominating and us chasing shadows, Whelan and Kelly came on with 10mins left for Walton and Dunn. The afternoon was a dead loss and Middlesborough sealed it when Downing's free kick was poorly cleared by Silva and Yakubu drilled it through a crowd of players and into the bottom corner to make it 2-0. The game ended that way, we were utter garbage and they deserved the points.

F/T: Middlesborough 2-0 Leeds United

The weekend brought more news of our search for a new striker and it was a big one as we looked set to beat the likes of Man Utd, Chelsea and Real Madrid to Freddy Adu after our £3m bid was accepted and he agreed to a move to Elland road pending a work permit, also Landon Donovan was discussing a deal with us. Both play in the USA and were part of the side who got them to the semi finals in this summer's World Cup. They would both be a welcome boost but some sources suggest that only one of them will be moving the Leeds. Also a £1m bid for Ajax's 23 year old striker George Mourad was made after he was placed on the transfer list. None of the above will be here in time for our crunch tie against champions Chelsea but should any of them move it would only make things better for us.

Leeds United Vs Chelsea, Premiership: (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva ©, Vaz te, Zokora, Guarin, Gasbarroni, Healy, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Kelly, Walton, Rossi.

I made my way to my seat, burger and coke in hand before sitting. My brothers were arguing over something while my dad proceeded to read the programme. The teams emerged causing us to stand and clap. The champions at Elland road. They'd had an ok start. Won two and lost one, that loss coming against Everton. The team we had looked strong but the Chelsea team would look alot stronger, i was hoping for a draw but that would be a mamouth task for us. They kicked the game off and we started very well. Warner got behind the defence thanks to Gasbarroni's pass, his cross had a bit too much on it but Healy collected and squared for Zokora who's shot just skimmed the cross bar. The bubble burst after quarter of an hour when Del Horno's long pass was headed down by Gudjohnsen and Drogba got away from Ferrari to fire past Bennett. We weren't about to be over run though. Cech saved well from Warners free kick and our best chance came from Gasbarroni as he tricked his way into the box and fired but Cech against saved before it was cleared to safety. Just before half time however Chelsea struck once more. A lovely sweeping move down the left wing gave Gudjohnsen the space he needed to side foot it in at the near post just before the interval.

The second half began with a bang...a big bloody bang. A simple throw in looked to have no danger to it but Silva played in Gasbarroni, he left Carvallo on his arse before bending in a beautiful 20 yard effort which flew right into the top corner. Excellent goal and whatever Batty said at half time seemed to have worked so far. Shortly after Batty made a change with Guarin coming off for Walton, Warner took the armband from Silva on Batty's order and looked to drive the team a little bit more. But it didn't work, Del Horno whipped in a ball to the back post, Carlton Cole got a foot to it leaving Bennett stranded and Drogba netted his second of the game. The game died down quiet a bit after that, Bennett was forced into one more save, this time from a Del Horno free kick but thats all really. Another defeat but we can take alot from this game, next up we travel to bitter rivals Man Utd.

F/T: Leeds United 1-3 Chelsea.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 61

Landon Donovan agreed terms but will have to await a work permit before he can move to Leeds while our offer for Mourad was accepted with him expected to agree terms before the close of the transfer window also. Wasn't all good news as Stack and Fray both picked up injuries and will miss upto a month each. Last season that would have really been damaging but this term we have some great cover and can rest a little easier should an injury arise. In other transfer news Soley was subject to a £500k bid by Watford and from what i hear we accepted it. He's fallen out of favour over the summer and he and Sulivan have been deemed surplus to requirements. Liverpool beat Inter 3-1 in the European super cup final, Pongolle got two and Crouch got the other. Adriano netted for Inter in the dying seconds. We drew West Brom in the second round of the League Cup and were hoping to repeat the performance from the opening day of the season.

Manchester United Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva, Lewis, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Healy, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Kelly, Vayrynen, Vaz Te.

I settled into my sofa for this one, watching my big new plasma screen tv in time for the team sheet and kick off. Rossi was missing due to stipulations in his loan deal while Lewis came in for Vaz te, he went onto the bench. Vayrynen returned from injury and will start on the bench. We got the chance to kick off, the rival fans were already chanting, trying to get their team going. The game started and the start was pretty even. Richardson got free for them and fired wide while Silva moved up the right well, his cross was almost headed in by Healy but Van Der Sar saved well. A little while later Saha beat the offside trap but Kruiswijk made the vital challenge. Saha had another go a moment later but Bennett saved well, but again our resistance ended far too quickly, somehow Neville found himself on the edge of the area, he played in Rooney and he buried it after just 10mins. It was gonna be a long afternoon. Van Der Sar was called into action once more. Lewis did the leg work but laying it on for Walton to strike from distance but again, our play fell apart, Richardson found space to cross on the left, Rooney got up and headed in off the post. We looked bloody awful at the back. Going forward we were bad but weren't brilliant either. Healy hit the side netting after a vicious 30 yard drive but he was about to get much more luck. Zokora drove through the midfield, his pass found Warner who turned on the edge of the area, fed Healy and he side footed past Van Der Sar to get us back in the game. Great build upto the goal, lets just hope the defence can get their act together. On the brink of half time we got the answer to that. Ji-Sung crossed, Rooney got a header up but Bennett saved from him, then Scholes, then Saha before the ball was cleared. Absolutly superb goalkeeping from him and it ensured we went in at the half just a goal, behind.

The second half began with that S.O.B. Alan Smith being taken off for Keane. We pretty much hate him round these parts. Neville forced a save early on after getting a head to Richardson's cross to the back post. Later on Warner skinned Silvestre on the right flank before crossing, Healy's volley was saved well though. With 25mins left Batty brought Vaz Te and Vayrynen on for Lewis and Gasbarroni, one was just crap throughout and the other looked tired. We seemed to have perked up alot since the interval and we seemed to have Man Utd worried a little. Vaz Te streaked up the left to collect Zokora's long pass, he crossed and Healy again forced Van Der Sar into another fine save before they scrambled it away but just like that, our chances went our the window and Vayrynen ended his debut after just 23mins on the pitch. He caught Giggs a beauty and the ref handed out a straight red card with 2mins on the clock to play, yet another successful debut. With a minute left Warner again made Van Der Sar work. Silva fed him the ball, he turned, flew past Keane and Scholes before unleashing a pile driver that the keeper managed just to palm out before collecting. The whistle went and ended the game. A better perfomance from us but lacking that bit of quality to finish a team off, changes will surely be made for the next game.

F/T: Manchester United 2-1 Leeds United

On the monday morning Freddy Adu Completed his £3m move from DC United. He's is rated as one of the worlds hottest footballing prospects and after putting in such a great showing for his country in the World Cup at the tender age of 17, he is definatly another one in what could be a really good looking future for us. At the moment were on the first International break of the season with England due to play against Denmark in their first game as champions of the world. Mourad also signed and in the press conference Batty announced that is the end of the spending for this season meaning the deal for Donovan was shelved. He's shelled out close to £20m on players in a bid to keep us in the Premier League this season and while we have started well our lack of fire power has been made evident in the past few matches. Batty also went on to say that some changes will be made for the next match which could suprise a few.

A few days later, just before the England game rumours were rife that Anderlect had offered David Batty the managers job. He has come out in saying that there was an offer but he rejected it as he felt it would be disrepectful to the chairman, the players and the fans to leave now. He went on to say that it was an attractive offer which more that quadupled his wage at Leeds but he said he felt at home here and would rather deal with the challenges of helping Leeds avoid another relegation hell than battle it out at the top of the Belgian league. Great to here as he's built a really good squad and one we all want him managing for a long time to come.

The monthly awards were given out with just one of our players being mentioned in the form of Walton getting 3rd place in young player of the month. Here's how the table looks,

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

16. Charlton Athletic (5) (1) (1) (3) (4) (6) 4pts

17. West Ham United (4) (1) (1) (2) (3) (5) 4pts

18. Leeds United (5) (1) (1) (3) (5) (8) 4pts

19. Portsmouth (5) (1) (0) (3) (2) (10) 3pts

20. Aston Villa (5) (0) (2) (3) (4) (8) 2pts

Bleak reading really, Warner is our top scorer so far but his 3 goals all came on the opening day. We play fellow promoted side Crystal Palace after the international break. We beat them last season when they last came to Elland Road so hopefuly we can do it again and drag ourselves clear from the relegation dog fight early on.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 62

England managed to just scrape past Denmark, Matt Warner came off the bench to bag an 83rd minute winner after England had dominated the Danes for most of the match. It was good goal too. Gerrard fed the ball into the box, Warner collected with his back to goal, turned and fired into the bottom corner. After the FA viewed video's from our match against Man Utd, mainly Vayrynen's tackle they decided to extend the ban by a further 2 games meaning he'll miss the next 3 matches for us which is a big loss seeing as he's only just returned from a long injury lay out and Batty is believed to have given him a warning over his future conduct during the game (kinda rich coming from him after some of the tackles he's made during his career).

In Englands other match they played San Marino away and won 3-0. Warner opened the scoring with Alan Smith (******) and Carragher getting the other two, Carragher's being a penalty. Our match with Crystal Palace was around the corner but we'd be missing both Zaza Karim and Didier Zokora as they're away on international duty.

Leeds United Vs Crystal Palace, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Gregan ©, Silva, Walton, Lewis, Guarin, Gasbarroni, Warner, Healy. (Subs) Sulivan, Harding, Jones, Adu, Mourad.

As promised things did change. Our normal 4-4-2 was gone for a 4-1-3-1-1. Flat back four, Walton playing the defensive midfield role, Lewis and Gasbarroni on the left and right of the central midfield trio with Guarin in the middle. Warner would be given the role as withdrawn forward and Healy as the out and out striker. They'd had a couple of weeks to get used to it so now it was time to put it to the test for real. They won the coin toss and opted to kick off. The game started at a quick pace and we soon found out that maybe this formation change was a bad idea. Mido escaped down the left, cut inside, crossed and Vaughan a slight touch to the ball, sending it into the net. But you know how erratic us fans are, one second slating the gaffers choice, the next praising it as the best thing since sliced bread. Gregan got the ball from a throw, he lifted the ball a good 60 yards up the right wing. Healy got on the end of it and crossed to the edge of the area and Warner smashed a first time effort into the top corner and it got better. After pinning them down under constant pressure, Walton released a ball into the feet of Healy who turned, ran the ball 40 odd yards past 2 defenders and slotted home from the angle through the keepers legs to give us the lead 6 mins before the half. We kept up the pressure but didn't manage to score again and headed off for the interval.

We started off the second half and kept up our unrelenting pressure on them. Lewis and Clarke played a 1-2 from a free kick before the latter hit a rasping drive at goal which was just tipped over the bar. With half hour left Batty gave us our first look at Freddy Adu. He came on to replace Healy with Warner filling the strikers position to allow Adu to play as the withdrawn forward and it worked brilliantly. Mido forced Bennett into a fantastic save, Clarke cleared and Silva headed on. Adu picked up the ball, fed Warner with a glorious pass. The keeper came out, the last defender made a great tackle but Guarin was bringing up the rear and chipped the keeper first time to open his Leeds United account and to put us firmly in control. Great goal! But with 20mins to go Mido made our defence look like a bunch of prats. He chased the ball down after Gregan let it run, collected at the byline then proceeded to run around 3 defenders before finding himself some space on the edge of the area and smashing one home. Silva was a little to blame and i haven't been impressed with the amount of bookings he manages to get. After the goal Batty made the last of his changes, Jones came on for Silva and Harding came on for Lewis. We were caught napping slightly as Macken fed Johnson, Kruiswijk made a last ditch tackle but Vaughan was there unmarked to scuff his effort just wide of the post. The game was becoming stretched as we entered the last few minutes but it was us who made the most of it. Adu collected the ball in the middle, lofted a fantastic pass into the space ahead of Harding who got the ball under control, cross and Warner steamed in at the near post to head it home. Brilliant goal and Adu was looking amazing in the free role. The time ticked down slowly but the whistle finally went and we had the 3 points. Great match, good win and maybe this formation could be good after all. Warner was named man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 4-2 Crystal Palace

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 63

After the game reactions were mixed about the performance and the new formation but Batty assured us in a interview that the players were still getting to know each other and the formation was a work in progress. Good to hear i suppose. The win pushed us up the table and away from the relegation zone. Next up for us would be Sunderland away in a televised match so we'll see what Andy Gray has to say about the new formation in the pre-match build up next sunday. However Adu won't be playing any part in that game or the next few, he picked up an injury in training and could be missing for the next month or so. The Champions league kicked off, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all drew while Man Utd thrashed Roma 5-0.

Sunderland Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Jones, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Di Canio, Warner ©. (Subs) Sulivan, Silva, Vaz Te, Guarin, Healy.

After much talking and banter in the Sky Sports studio the match got under way. Our first major chance came when Clarke recieved the ball in acres of space before crossing but Di Canio couldn't direct the header and it went harmlessly over the bar. It was Sunderlands turn next, Stead worked the ball well into the centre for Elliot but his touch was off and Bennett got down and saved at his feet. But after a largely boring half was got the opener. Gasbarroni won the ball in his own 18 yard box before streaking up the wing, he looked up and found Walton who had streaked through into the open space, he rounded the keeper and tucked it away with ease for his first of the campaign. That was the most action of the half really but we went in ahead and were happy with that.

Batty made a change at the half with the largly disappointing Di Canio coming off for Healy, Warner would slip into the free role position. The second half began and again we looked the more dangerous. Some great build up play opened up some space for Warner and his drive from distance hit the post before being cleared into touch. Shortly after we added a second. Bennett played a goal kick short to Jones who hoofed the ball up the right, Gasbarroni picked it up, played it to Healy who's shot was palmed out but Warner was there to finish and put us very much in the drivers seat.... for 5mins. Sunderland broke quickly, Stead found space to pass and Elliot greatfuly fired it past Bennett. After the goal Batty made 2 changes, Gasbarroni coming off for Guarin and Vaz Te coming on for Warner. Sunderland began to find they're feet and press us more. Kranjcar whipped in a free kick from the edge of the area and Whitehead headed what looked to be a sure goal but Bennett got a fingertip to it and sent it wide. A few moments later we were pulled out of shape and again Bennett made a superb save after a shot from point blank range from Stead. The corner was cleared and Healy broke free down the left wing, he played it to Vaz Te who lingered on the ball and was tackled but Harding blasted the loose ball goalwards, forcing the keeper to tip it over. The dying seconds became frantic defending for them with us pounding the goal every chance we got, the keeper being made to earn his wages before it was our turn to defend franticly, all hands to the pump as the seconds ticked down. They found space to cross from the right, Bennett collected and the long kick upfield was followed by the final whistle. Another win and another 3 points. Zokora shined in the defensive midfield role and gained man of the match for it.

F/T: Sunderland 1-2 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 64

The games were coming thick and fast for us now and midweek brought the visit of West Brom for our league cup tie.

Leeds United Vs West Bromich Albion, League Cup 2nd round: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Jones ©, Zokora, Sweeney, Whelan, Dunn, Gasbarroni, Mourad. (Subs) Bennett, Silva, Harding, Guarin, Healy.

The game started quick and we soon found ourselves behind. West Brom pretty much strolled through us, Ellington rounded Kruiswijk, his shot was saved but Earnshaw finished it off with ease. Only 5mins gone and behind but on the bright side it only took us another 35mins of play to make their keeper work. Sweeney looked down the left, he crossed and Mourad powered a header at goal which was tipped over by Babos.

The second half began and it didn't take us long to challenge the keeper. Zokora and Whelan linked up well before finding Gasbarroni. He turned and shot from distance but the keeper saved and held the ball well. But Batt still wasn't happy and decided he'd seen enough of Dunn, Sweeney and Mourad and replaced them with Guarin, Harding and Healy and we instantly looked more alert and creative. Gasbarroni whipped a corner to the back post and Harding's header forced a big save before being cleared into touch. We kept going at them, making them work but never broke through, the start was poor but i think Batty may have sacrificed the league cup to concentrate on the league.

F/T: Leeds Utd 0-1 West Bromich Albion

The friday brought the revalation that contract talks with Matt Warner had finally broken down due to the player rejecting all offers made by Leeds United. From what i hear Batty has been trying to tempt him into signing but Warner is having none of it and it looks like his ego and greed have replaced his love for the team that got him where he is in the first place. Batty refuses to just let him leave without a fight but if he does leave after all Batty has done for him then i'm sure he'll be another one added to the Leeds United hate list.

My dad and i had a in depth conversation about the whole Warner contract saga and soon enough we were in our seats ready for kick off.

Leeds United Vs Tottenham Hotspur, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennnett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Gregan ©, Jones, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Silva, Lewis, Guarin, Healy.

The game kicked off and we started much the better, at times just passing their defence apart with Vayrynen at the heart of all our best moves. Spurs had the best of chance of the game to take the lead. Jones's poor back pass was intercepted by Keane, his shot rattled the post and was cleared for a corner which was wasted. We continued to try and press, Warner came close with a free kick and Vayrynen's long range drive was pushed away by Robinson as it looked to be a sure goal. The first half came to an end and we were all left hoping for better things in the second.

Better things is what we got and we got in straight from kick off. Harding recieved it from Vayrynen before running down the left wing, he played the ball to Warner who managed to cross at the byline and Gasbarroni was at the near post to head us infront. Great start and one we continued to try and improve. With half hour to go Batty brought off his goal scorer, Gasbarroni being replaced by Guarin. We kept trying to press but the game was becoming a slow and rather boring affair. Batty made more changes with Healy coming on for Vayrynen with Warner switching to the free role. Spurs looked to press but Walton win the ball, knocked it to Harding to let it go for Warner to run onto, he paced into the box and shot but Robinson pushed it wide for a corner. The corner was poor and Spurs broke down the right with Lennon, he played in Jarome and his cross found the glancing head of Keane but Bennett push it away brilliantly and it was cleared into touch but our lead didn't last. Again Jarome got away from his man, his shot was pushed away and Keane finished with ease into the open net, a cruel blow really. With a couple of minutes left Routledge went off with injury but Spurs had used all their subs and were effectivly down to 10 men. We looked to pressure them in the dying seconds but couldn't find a way through. We would have taken a point at the start but at the end it felt like 2 points dropped. Kruiswijk was man of the match.

Leeds United 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 65

The week was a slow one in terms of team matters leading upto our away game against Everton. The usual stuff was floating around in the media and most noteably the whole "Will he or won't he?" Warner contract saga. Many within the press were slating him for refusing to sign a new contract with the team that has helped him becoming one of the most lethal scorers in the country. It's been around for a few years now but money is the main ruler of the game these days. Despite reports suggesting that Leeds have offered Warner a bank breaking £75,000 a week 3 year deal he still hasn't put our hearts at rest and signed a new deal. It was the main topic of conversation for the entire week in the papers, the sports news and around the pub. We also had to deal with the news that Bennett had suffered an injury in training and will miss the next couple of games more than likely.

Everton Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Gregan ©, Jones, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Sulivan, Lewis, Silva, Guarin, Healy.

It was still unbelievably warm for this time of year. I was outside keeping an ear on things with the help of the radio coverage. The game started kinda slowly with Everton having the better of the opening exchanges. McCarthy looked a danger and Anelka seemed to be really giving Gregan the run around with his pace and power. They had the much better oppertunities, Arteta, Anelka and Kilbane all making Zaza show his worth to the team and he didn't disappoint, making several fine saves to keep the scores level. We had a couple of chances and wasted them. Vayrynen got free in the box but scuffed the ball into Martin's arms as Warner found the pass. Half time came around the Everton looked... ok sounded alot better.

However, Batty's team talks are becoming famous round these parts and again they didn't disappoint. Vayrynen released Warner down the left. He collected the ball, looked for the pass and played it through a crowd of defenders for Walton to tap in. Great build up to the goal and we kept up the tempo, looking for a second without much luck before it was Everton's chance to score. Kilbane left Jones on his backside and crossed, Anelka got above Clarke to head past a helpless Zaza just 10mins after we'd taken the lead. We gathered our witsand started to control the tempo of the game. Zokora was working wonders and Zaza was still making great saves to keep the scores level. With around 20mins to go the changes were made, Vayrynen and Gasbarroni came off for Healy and Guarin. Warner again switched to that free role behind the striker and it seemed to thrive in that position at times and it was made even more evident in the final minute. Everton had been pushing for a winner in the final few minutes, they came ever so close but Clarke fed the ball to Warner who was inside his own half. He turned and began to run at speed. He beat Van Der Mayde, Kilgallon, Kilbane and finally Hall before getting into the 18 yard box with a crowd of defenders chasing him and calmly poking the ball past the oncoming Martin to score what was an amazing last gasp winner for us. I saw the goal later that night and it was bloody amazing. Everton mustered one last push but couldn't break us and the final whistle gave us the 3 points meaning we were now unbeaten in our last four league games. Warner got man of the match for his second half perfomance.

F/T: Everton 1-2 Leeds United

The next day the player awards were given out with our players picking them all up amazingly. Zokora was player of the month with Warner in second, Kruiswijk was young player, Walton came second and Warner got goal of the month for his solo effort against Everton the day before. Batty wasn't left out and was second in the manager awards behind Rafa Benitez. Here's how the table stands at the start of October.

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

1. Liverpool (9) (9) (0) (0) (17) (1) 27pts

2. Chelsea (9) (7) (1) (1) (18) (7) 22pts

3. Arsenal (9) (7) (1) (1) (18) (9) 22pts

4. Man Utd (9) (6) (1) (2) (17) (8) 19pts

5. Leeds Utd (9) (4) (2) (3) (14) (13) 14pts

The scorers charts also told an interesting story,

1. Theirry Henry (Arsenal) 8 goals

2. Micheal Owen (Newcastle United) 8 goals

3. Ruud Van Nistelrooy (Manchester United) 7 goals

4. Matt Warner (Leeds United) 7 goals

5. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United) 6 goals

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 66

We now had an 2 week wait for our next game while England played their next two European Championship qualifiers, our next game would be against Aston Villa where i hope we can extend our good form and our unbeaten run. We'd taken 10 points from a possible 12 in our last 4 games and some people were saying that a return to European football could be on the cards if we can maintain our form. The new formation seems to be working wonders and after seeing it over the last month or so it seemed to have it all. We looked fairly stable in defence while having enough fire power up front with the lone striker and a withdrawn playmaker. The usual suspect were called up for international duty, Warner, Healy, Vaz Te and Vayrynen while Mourad got a suprise call up for the Sweden squad and could earn his first cap. Mourad hasn't had a chance to make an impact yet but i'm sure he will soon. He's not a very pacey striker but he's big, strong with a good eye for goal and brilliant heading ability that some would liken to Alan Shearer in recent times.

England thrashed Greece 5-1 at New Wembly, a brace each from Rooney and Owen with Warner also getting on the scoresheet sealed the win. Englands second game, away to Lithuania, also brought a win. The final score was 2-0 with Warner and Rooney scoring the goals with Warner also getting man of the match. It wasn't a brilliant game but it's another 3 points in the bag and for us Leeds fans (despite him stalling on a new contract) it was nice to see Warner in such lethal form for his country. It's now 4 goals on the trot for him and 7 all told in just 11 caps.

With our next game upon us Adu, Bennett, Stack and Fray all returned from injury with Bennett expected to start and Adu looking to make the bench.

Leeds United Vs Aston Villa, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Jones, Zokora, Lewis, Walton, Gasbarroni, Warner ©, Healy. (Subs) Zaza, Kelly, Harding, Adu, Mourad.

The game started in quick fasion with Villa almost taking the lead. Baros skipped past Ferrari before playing across the box, Fatih looked to tap in but Kruiswijk made a vital last ditch block to send it out for a corner. It took us a while to really get going but when we did we almost got an opener. After settling in to some good attacking football Walton and Zokora worked well, they played to Warner and his wild drive smashed off the cross bar before they cleared away from the oncoming Healy. We collected once more, Kruiswijk fed Lewis down the left. He found space to cross and Warner's header forced a great save from Green. The game became bogged down in the midfield for the rest of the half. Bouma came close for them as he pretty much strolled forward on the right before shooting just wide of Bennett's far post.

The second half started and we looked a little bit better. Warner caught Melberg on the ball and had a crack from 20 yards which went just wide. The changes were made soon after with Healy and Lewis coming off for Adu and Harding. Adu dropped to the free role with Warner switch to the lone forward role. We continued to press them but were reduced to long range efforts of which none forced Green into doing any work. With around 10mins left we finally had the ball in the goal. Clarke made a long cross from his own halfway line, Warner headed across the goal mouth and Adu finished but our bubble was burst when the ref disallowed it, Warner judged to have fouled Melberg in winning the header. With a couple of minutes left we came so close to a goal. Clarke played in Harding and his cross with controlled brilliantly by Warner but his shot cannoned off the inside of the post, rolled across the line and was finally cleared. It was our best chance of the game and our last for that matter. The final whistle blew and we had a point. Unbeaten in 5 now but perhaps should have 3 points instead of the 1.

F/T: Leeds United 0-0 Aston Villa

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 67

The week leading upto our next game was a quiet one. Mine the same, pretty much just work and painting, (missus wants the babies room doing now, bloody impatient aren't they) so the weekend was a welcome relief from the bores of working life. I made my way to my seat, meeting my brothers and dad who were already there waiting. I settled in, opened my programme and kept myself entertained until the teams made their way out.

Leeds United Vs West Ham United, Premiership: (Starting 11, 4-1-3-1-1 formation) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Gregan ©, Jones, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Guarin, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Kelly, Vaz Te, Vayrynen, Healy.

The players got into position and ready as the ref blew his whistle and got things under way. We'd be looking to extend our unbeaten run and in the opening minutes we found out that it'd be a hard task. They took the lead early on, Harewood scrambled the ball in after some crappy defending from us with only 10mins gone but we got right back in the game just 4mins later. With us pressing they hoofed a ball forward and attempted to clear their lines. Jones put the ball back in the mixer from the half way line, it dropped straight to Warner on the edge of the area. He turned and smashed a venom filled volley into the top corner, a truly great goal that had the us once again chanting his name. We almost had another not long after. Guarin headed on Zokora foward pass, Adu got to it first, squared for Warner in space and his vicious effort was tipped over by Carroll. Adu was contining to look lethal. He played a free kick short, danced around the edge of the 18 yard box before firing off a shot that Carroll tipped onto the post before Konchesky cleared but finally we got the goal and again it was Adu and Warner linking up well. Clarke played in Adu down the left, he jinxed past the defender, then another before dinking it into the box for Warner to head home. Another brilliant goal and Adu looked amazing. West Ham made an attempt to get back in the game, Bennett having to save from Dailly's headed attempt from a corner. But we came closest to adding to the score. Kruiswijk cleared down the left, Warner ran onto it before finding Adu unmarked in the centre but he scuffed his shot into Carroll's hands.

The second half started slowly, only Dimitrov's deflected free kick brought us closer to a goal and with 25mins left Batty brought on Vayrynen for the highly impressive Adu, only 17 and running rings round the West Ham defence. In the last 20mins West Ham really started to press us and they were for some reason finding alot of space down their left flank. Ethrington, Hutton and Harewood all came close to equalising before they actually did. Ethrington found space to cross, Kruiswijk cleared but it cannoned off Cheyrou towards goal, Bennett got a hand to it but it found the back of the net. Lucky goal really and they will agree. After that Batty made the last of his changes, Vaz Te and Healy came on for Harding and Warner and we almost retook the lead. Walton whipped in the corner, Vaz Te got in a header which was palmed out, Guarin fed it across goal and Healy's shot was directed just wide by Hutton. The game fizzled out and another 2 points dropped i feel after coming from behind, Adu and Warner were again impressive. Unbeaten in 6 now but struggling to get a win of late.

F/T: Leeds United 2-2 West Ham United

During the week leading upto our clash with Blackburn Matteo Ferrari and Clive Clarke both suffered injury. Clarke will miss a couple of weeks but Ferrari will be out for upto 3 months with a slipped disc. A big blow as we haven't been defending brilliantly of late. It looks a definate changes will be made for the next game with injuries and Batty stating he is far from pleased at the amount of goals we've conceded so far this season.

Blackburn Rovers Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (4-1-3-1-1 formation, starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Soley, Silva ©, Zokora, Lewis, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (subs) Zaza, Kelly, Fray, Rossi, Mourad.

At the start of the day we were level on points with Blackburn and lay just 3 points away from the Champions League places. A change in defence and midfield would hopefuly get us the win we needed to move up the table and keep our good start on track. We kicked the game off after winning the coin toss and they started the better, Pederson forcing a save from Bennett early after a flicked header. A few mins later Derbyshire looked like he's made a mockery of our defence after breezing past both Silva and Soley before shooting but Bennett put his all into producing a last gasp save to keep us on level terms. After a little while Warner and Adu bagan to torment the Blackburn defence. Adu again looked good as he just seemed to waltz past defenders before playing the perfect ball but Warner smashed his effort well over the bar. The game became bogged down slightly until the last few mins of the half when we managed to take the lead. A nothing throw in was recieved by Zokora, he played to Lewis on the left and his first time pass opened up space for Walton who's tame shot just sneaked in off the near post with a minute remaining of the half.

The second half started with Blackburn very much in control. Bellamy got free needed only to finish but Soley made an excellent last second challenge and Bennett collected. The defence was holding up but looked a bit flat footed at times but it was us who gave the game it's second goal. Matteo looked to flick the ball forward but Harding headed it back upfield, Lewis got to it first, took it past the defender before finding Warner unmarked in the centre and he made no mistake, tapping home past the stranded keeper to double our lead. After the goal Adu made way for Rossi to make his third apperence in a Leeds shirt. Again our defending was called into question as Pederson crossed and Derbyshire got a header in which hit the side netting to spare our blushes and again they made us work at the back after Matteo's deflected cross fell to Bellamy who's first time shot was turned away by the brilliant Bennett. Our resistance didn't last forever and they pulled one back. Matteo again played the ball into the area, it was half cleared to Gallagher who set himself and fired past Bennett to give them a life line. However, that life line was cut off just 3mins later. Walton played it to Gasbarroni in space and he let go a wonderful pass to Warner. Nelsen got there just before but scuffed his back pass, Warner knocked it past Friedel and finished with ease to regain our two goal cussion. The last few minute brought a couple of changes with Warner making way for Mourad and Lewis coming off for Fray. The final whistle sounded and we had the points in the bag. It was by far our best performance of the season and we were now seven games unbeaten. Matt Warner got man of the match.

F/T: Blackburn Rovers 1-3 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 68

During the week the player awards for the month were given out with just 2 of our players getting mentions. Kruiswijk was young player of the month while Adu came in second place. Whats more interesting is that Batty issued a retraction of sorts concerning what he said about his spending spree being over. The board have freed up an estimated £9m which Batty says he'll look to spend on a top class defender and maybe another defensive midfielder or striker. Batty's point may be heightend as now Kruiswijk suffered an injury in training and could be out for anything between a week and three weeks leaving us short on the ground in terms of defenders as Soley is also out with a cold (girl) and could miss our next game at home to Portsmouth. Later in the week our injury crisis got worse when Mourad pick up a knock in training that could keep him out for a couple of weeks.

Leeds United Vs Portsmouth, Premiership: (4-1-3-1-1 formation, starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Soley, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Sweeney, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Kelly, Fray, Vayrynen, Healy.

They won the toss and got to kick off the game. We were infront of the Sky Sports camera's for this match but i was in the stadium this one like i am for every home game and the opening 2mins almost brought the viewers and us a goal. Adu looked to play the ball to Warner but the pass deflected into the path of Gasbarroni who had a strike at goal, however Tim Howard saved and it was cleared to safety. He wasn't as lucky as moment later we took the lead. Adu and Gasbarroni worked well to play in Warner who got around the outside of his man and hit an angled shot into the bottom corner. Great start. For the next 20mins we kept playing well with Portsmouth giving us very little defensive work to do and we almost double the lead on the half hour mark. Soley made a long throw into the area, Zokora nodded it on and Sweeney was unmarked at the back post but Howard managed to turn away his low drive from 12 yards. We kept up the tempo and had another chance, this time Gasbarroni moved quickly up the right before crossing but Adu's glancing header was wide but he finally got his first goal for the club. Sweeney found the perfect ball between defenders and Adu collected and fired off a low drive at the near post. We kept making chances and again we struck. Silva found space on the right flank to cross, Warner got up a brilliant header which Howard saved but Sweeney managed to turn in the loose ball for his first goal for the club just before half time.

We played great in the first half and as the second half began and we almost added. Warner recieved the ball with his back to goal, managed to turn his marker and shoot but it was over. However we kept going and a few mins later we did get another and again it was Sweeney. Adu found space after Zokora's pass, his effort was blocked but it fell to Sweeney 20 yards out who lashed it home at the near post. His first start but he's looking brilliant. Portsmouth were still failing to make us sweat at the back, Jones was everywhere winning the ball and keeping the front 2 quiet. Warner came close to heaping more woe on Pompy when he caught Howard off his line but his lob was wide, but only just. The subs emerged from the dugout, Adu and Sweeney made way for Vayrynen and Fray with half hour to go and not long after Portsmouth got on the score sheet. Robert hit a looping cross to the back post where LuaLua steamed in and hit home with a diving header. Disappointing as Bennett has had nothing to do all game and was probably thinking he'd get a clean sheet. Things started to turn after that and Pompy had their tails up. LuaLua again got free in the box, Priske got the cross in but Jones saved off the line at the back post. Pompy kept up their attacking spell but Bennett was more awake to the dangers this time round with a string of good saves. Warner came off with 10mins left, Healy replaced him and looked to gain his third goal of the season. His wish was granted in the dying seconds, Vayrynen and Fray had chances to add to the score but Jones's long pass caught the Pompy defence asleep. Healy strode up, cool as ya like and slotted home from the angle with power. The whistle ended a nightmare afternoon for Portsmouth. We were simply brilliant all throughout, the goal aside we were solid at the back, deadly at the front and creative in the middle. Gasbarroni was man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 5-1 Portsmouth

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 69

It seems that David Batty is a rising star manager within the footballing world as Gladbach made an offer for his services which was again turned down. He went on to say that the team were very much on track to complete his 5 year plan of winning the league. He also revealed he wanted the club back in the Champions League in 3 years time. This brought joy to us all as thats where we wanted to be, then again Risdale (twat) had a 5 year plan and he almost destroyed the club completely, however i doubt Ken Bates is that dumb and if he is, then god help him. Here's how the tables stood at the start of November,

Premiership Table

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

4. Manchester United (13) (7) (2) (4) (20) (15) 23pts

5. Newcastle United (13) (7) (1) (5) (22) (13) 22pts

6. Leeds United (13) (6) (4) (3) (24) (17) 22pts

7. Tottenham Hotspur (13) (6) (2) (5) (16) (12) 20pts

8. West Bromich Albion (13) (5) (5) (3) (16) (14) 20pts

Premiership top scorers

1. Matt Warner: 12 goals

2. Michael Owen: 10 goals

3. Ruud Van Nistelrooy: 9 goals

4. Theirry Henry: 9 goals

5. Didier Drogba: 8 goals

It was time for yet another international break, England would take on Macedonia at New Wembly with Warner and Simon Walton in the squad. Batty made moves to bring in another Columbian in the form of 22-year old central defender Andreas Felipe Gonzalez from America De Cali. He's out of contract soon and will move to us for free at the end of January should he agree terms and get a work permit. Also we had offers for Leon Osman, Jeremie Brechet and Jaime Alfonso Ruiz accepted and all seemed ready to join and it would also take Batty's spending close to the £30m mark. Where the hell were we getting all this cash? I didn't really care as long as we don't end up treading down the road of debt and relegation again.

England beat Macedonia 3-1 with Warner getting his first international hat trick. He played his socks off for 90mins and fully deserved his goals. It's now 10 in 12 caps for England and he's getting better and better with each match he plays, made clear by the fact that he's keeping Michael Owen out of both the starting line up and the number 10 shirt. For Leeds however things weren't going quite as planned in the transfer market. Deals for Osman, Brechet and Gonzalez all fell through but it looks as if Ruiz and now Coloccini look set to join the team in January. The pair will cost around £7.5m all told and will more than likely see Rossi shipped back to Man Utd as he hasn't made any kind of impact while here and he's just dead weight in the team.

In England's other fixture they played Switzerland and home and were beaten for the first time as World Champions. Rooney and Owen got the goals for us in a 3-2 defeat and we didn't look like the same side at all as we fell to a disappointing low. Ruiz agreed to his move pending a work permit but he looks set to become the second Columbian player at Leeds along with Guarin and Coloccini also agreed to his move stating that he was looking forward to using the clubs training facilities and working with manager David Batty.

Southampton Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1. Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Jones, Soley, Silva ©, Zokora, Lewis, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Kelly, Vayrynen, Healy.

We went into the match unbeaten in eight games and knowing we were very much on fire. With that in mind we started well and in the opening quarter of an hour we'd had 11 shots at goal, one pinged off the cross bar from Warner and genrally we were causing mayhem with out slick and fast attacking football. With 20mins gone we finally put the ball in the back of the net. Lewis won the ball back from Josemi and played to Adu, he skipped past his defender before feeding it through to Warner who drove home from 12 yards but it was adjudged to be offside by the linesman and was disallowed much to our disappointment. Things didn't get better as with their first meaningful attack the Saints scored. Solano played his way down the right, his first attempt at a cross was intercepted but he sprang onto the loose ball, played it to Oakley in the middle and he fired it into the top corner from the edge of the area. It only took us 4mins to get back on level terms, Oakley turned villan when he toppled Adu over in the box and Walton stepped up to smash it low and hard to the keepers right. We came close a couple more times through the half, as did they but the score remained as half time came around and we can perhaps be a little disappointed so far.

The second half wasn't brilliant by any means, the first 20mins were very very poor as Alan Hanson would say. With about 25mins left Batty brought Adu and Lewis off for Vayrynen and Clarke. Clarke switched to left back with Harding going on the left of the central midfield trio. The result wasn't the one we wanted as the match continued to be dull and drab until it really got bad for us. Solano made his way down the right before backheeling at the byline to Josemi, he crossed and Dickov stole in ahead of Jones to finish and give them the lead with 86mins reading on the score board. Warner was brought off for Healy, he has been really poor today. The change didn't bring us any more action and the game ended. Our first defeat in eight games and we really did let it go without any real fight. Walton was man of the match but one man can't carry a team.

F/T: Southampton 2-1 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 70

After that Batty swung the axe, not at his players but as his staff. Two Physio's and four coaches were sacked, Batty giving the reason that he wants to bring his own staff in. He wished them all luck with future and stated that he plans to bring in a physio and three coaches to fill the void. Ruiz also will be filling a void for us after his work permit was granted, he'll join us at the start of the new year and at just 22, looks like one for the future. Also Ronnie Hellstrom joined our coaching staff and comes highly recommended, he made 80 apperences for Sweden in his playing days and will only aid us in our push to stay in the top flight. David Coles, Thanasis Lakrintis and Paul Veenboer joined also and Said Tahiri signed as our new physio.

Leeds United Vs Charlton Athletic, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1. Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva©, Zokora, Sweeney, Walton, Dunn, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Soley, Kelly, Gasbarroni, Healy.

We'd be looking to get back on track after suffering defeat in our last match while Charlton are hoping to improve on what had so far been a disappointing season for them. Batty made changes to the team with Sweeney, Dunn and Kruiswijk all starting. The game started as i settled in my seat, a little bit late i might add. Both sides made chances although our's were the better one's. Warner got onto Zokora's clearence and streaked down the right before playing it to Adu who arrived at the edge of the area but his first time shot was saved well. Horsfield and Blake both returned i might add with Blake on the bench. We began to batter the Charton goal with Warner, Adu and Sweeney all having chances which were saved well. The remainder of the half followed much the same fasion but we couldn't find a goal and went in at the break level.

The second half began and we did finally take the lead. Sweeney played his way down the left and attempted a cross which was deflected to Harding on the edge of the area, he shot across goal and El Karkouri got in the way, diverting it into the goal to give us the lead. A bit lucky but we'll take it whatever we can get in this league. We kept at them, coming close a couple of times before Batty brought off Dunn who was struggling, Gasbarroni coming on in his place. With 20mins left we had a couple of scares when Charlton broke down the left, Murphy got it in the middle and shot, Bennett saved well before it was cleared. Young collected and whipped it in for Bent who headed it in at the near post but it was disallowed for offside. We got a second shortly after. With Charlton pressing Harding played the ball to Sweeney, he ran past 3 defenders from his own half to the byline before being brought down. Gasbarroni played the free kick quickly and Sweeney smashed it in at the near post, he really did make the goal for himself with his great running. Warner picked up a head injury with a couple of minutes left, Healy came on to replace him but didn't get a touch as the whistle called a end to the game shortly after. Good win, Sweeney was man of the match as he was superb throughout really.

F/T: Leeds United 2-0 Charlton Athletic

After the game is was revealed that Warner will be out for anything upto 2 weeks and a few days later, Healy suffered a groin strain and will also miss out meaning were stuffed in terms of cover. Mourad is still recovering from injury and while Warner could make it back it means either Vaz Te or Rossi will play upfront against Newcastle. A win for us would mean we leap frog them into 5th and stay right on Man Utd's tail. But for now it's a big if...

[Okkas]

Just so you know, I am reading mate, only just got into it on the back few pages but keep it up!

[Matt_no_7]

Nice to hear someone is reading, least you can be arsed to comment. More to come though and a few twists i might add, stay tuned!

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 71

The Newcastle game marks the start of a tough couple of weeks as it see's us face Newcastle, Arsenal and then Liverpool all on the trot. Arsenal and Liverpool are fighting it out at the top so they won't want to drop points against us. And just before the game Jeff Stelling announced that Ken Bates had finally agreed a new deal with our young superstar Matt Warner after the lad sacked his agent on grounds of misguiding information concerning a new pay deal and legal action will follow. Also he went on to say that it was a 5 year deal worth around the £50,000 a week mark and Batty was now looking to build his team around him. He wouldn't figure in the Newcastle game but will more than likely play against Arsenal next weekend.

Newcastle United Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Sweeney, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Vaz Te. (Subs) Zaza, Fray, Kelly, Dunn, Mourad.

We'd just got a massive boost off the pitch and now we were hoping to get another one on it. Vaz Te starts with Mourad on the bench. Sweeney starts ahead of Lewis who is left out. Newcastle were at full strength but we'd be looking to roll them over. The game started evenly but we forced the first save as Vaz Te got a header on Zokora's looping cross. The game remained finely poised until Harding's long ball set Vaz Te away, he had acre's of space, his shot was saved but Adu was following up and netted with ease to put us ahead after 22mins of play. Not long after Vaz Te forced another save after Adu's threaded pass left him with just the finish to take care of but it was saved. Newcastle were having their fair share of chances but Jones was doing brilliantly well in keeping Owen on a short leash. He almost got off it though when Gasbarroni lost the ball and Viana broke down the left, he fed Owen who ran it into the area and looked sure to score but Bennett pulled off a brilliant save at his feet before Silva cleared. We were looking good as half time came around and maybe that 5th place wasn't far away at all.

The second half began and sadly, it only took them 15 seconds to level the scores. Dyer came in off the right and fed Owen who placed a first time effort past Bennett. Really poor start and from what was being said Batty was off on one already. The tide was very much beginning to turn as Dyer again got past Harding to cross but this time Antchouet's header hit the outside of the post before going out for a goal kick. He wasn't as unlucky as Dyer again played in Smertin who released Anchouet and he side footed home. We'd fallen apart and it looked like it could only get worse. We were all over the place to be honest. With half hour to go Sweeney came off for Fray who went in at left back with Harding going to the left of the midfield trio. It made no difference as again they passed us to pieces with Owen crossing and Anchouet heading home with power...f**kin useless!!! The game played on without much action after that. With 20mins left Dunn and Mourad came on for Gasbarroni and Vaz Te in an attempt to spur us on to maybe get a goal or even a draw. The last 20mins passed without incident and fizzled out with us completely beaten, a really really poor result after such a good start.

F/T: Newcastle United 3-1 Leeds United

Premiership Table, December 1st

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

2. Liverpool (16) (10) (6) (0) (27) (9) 36pts

3. Chelsea (16) (11) (3) (2) (28) (12) 36pts

4. Man Utd (16) (10) (2) (4) (27) (17) 32pts

5. Newcastle (16) (9) (1) (6) (28) (19) 28pts

6. Leeds Utd (16) (7) (4) (5) (28) (22) 25pts

Scorers Charts

1. Van Nistelrooy (Man Utd) 15 goals

2. Owen (Newcastle) 15 goals

3. Henry (Arsenal) 14 goals

4. Warner (Leeds Utd) 12 goals

5. Drogba (Chelsea) 10 goals

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 72

The 3rd round F.A. Cup draw was made with us being drawn at home to Derby. Could be a tough one but i'll be expecting us to progress to the next round. Another tough game we were to face is Arsenal at the weekend, it'd be a real battle for us as they are flying at the moment. A win would be amazing but a draw would be also with many expecting us to simply fold under the might of the gunners as we did against Newcastle. The brothers Warner would meet again in this game as in the summer Chris Warner moved to Arsenal for £9m so it will be interesting in that sence. I always had a rivalry with my brothers and in some ways i still do. Lets just hope big brother triumphs in this one.

Midweek saw both Kruiswijk and Bennett pick up injuries that would rule them out for the next couple of games if not more. Gladbach made another attempt to sign Batty as manager and again they were sent away with nothing, although alot more harshly so i hear. Batty is believed to have said that they've been told once and he doesn't want to hear from them again. Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea all qualified for the next phase of the Champions League with all of them going through top of their group. Midweek also saw us sign new additions to our coaching staff. German trio Ralf Kohl, Benrd Ziemer and Stephan Schwarz joined as scouts from West Ham, Sunderland and 1860 Munich respectivly. Warner was given the all clear and will start against Arsenal. We need to pick up some points as the touch x-mas period lays ahead of us.

Leeds United Vs Arsenal, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Zaza, Harding, Soley, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Lewis, Walton, Vayrynen, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Fray, Kelly, Gasbarroni, Vaz Te.

We were almost at full strength for the visit of the league leader and would have to be on our toes if we are to stand any chance of getting a result. It was a bitterly cold afternoon so a hot pie and a cup of tea were a must. They kicked things off and things started quickly. Van Persie was booked in the first 15 second of the game for a nasty tackle on Vayrynen and then moments later Silva and Vayrynen worked the ball well before Silva crossed, Lewis went for it but was brought down and a penalty was awarded. Walton stepped up but was saved and truly was the worst penalty i've ever seen, he pretty much just passed it into the keepers hands. At the other end Aliadiere got into the area unchecked and his shot was just tipped over by Zaza. Arsenal were starting to take control, forcing saves and making chances but we again had the chance to score. Warner zipped onto Harding clearence, he rounded Cudicini and with the goal wide open and empty, put it wide...what the hell was up with him?! Warner again was at the heart of another move as Zokora chipped it forward to him, he nodded down and Adu forced a brilliant save from Cudicini after a 30 yard volley. At the other end Ljungberg made Zaza work, his headed effort tipped over from point blank range. He made another brilliant save from what must have been 2 yards out after Upson crossed and Aliadiere flicked it towards goal. That was the last action of the half and i went off for another pie and some tea.

The start of the half saw Lewis and Vayrynen make way for Vaz Te and Gasbarroni. Lewis had taken a knock and Vayrynen looked shattered, lazy get. The second half started with Henry coming close to given them the lead before we actually did take the lead. Gasbarroni's free kick on the left was cleared, Harding played it across field to Silva who skipped past Cole before putting it into the area where Warner was free to head it home and give us the lead (could have been 3-0 by now). Great goal and finally Warner was starting to show why he's worth £50,000 a week to us. The lead didn't last however as we again failed to defend a simple corner, Upson found space to fire across the goal mouth and Henry was there to finish with 20mins left, Bugger! I wasn't saying that for long as just 5mins later Adu headed on a long high clearence for Vaz Te, he played in Warner who beat Toure to the ball before smashing one right across Cudicini and into the top corner to restore our lead. My nerves were all over the place as we were close to not only 3 points but also putting a dent in Arsenal's title bid. We were very much on the back foot for the rest of the match, trying to keep the wolves from the door but finally, after a long wait the whistle blew and we had a famous victory. Great perfomances from Warner, Soley, Zaza, Zokora and Silva. Zaza was man of the match but it was a tough one on who to pick.

F/T: Leeds United 2-1 Arsenal

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 73

In the week contract rebel Eddie Lewis agreed to join Porto for £2.5m. He'd refused to sign a new deal and now is heading for Portugal come January. Batty said it was a little bit of a disappointment but it happens and it now leaves him with money in the bank to search for a left sided replacement with Tottenham's Johnnie Jackson looking like being Batty's main target. The week was quiet apart from the above and the team were deep in preperation for their trip to Anfield to face Liverpool. They're still unbeaten this season and hopefuly we can add to our amazing result last week and claim another confidence boosting victory, but a point would do.

Liverpool Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Zaza, Harding, Kruiswijk, Soley, Silva ©, Zokora, Sweeney, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Clarke, Kelly, Guarin, Vaz Te.

Jones misses this match with a slight knock, Kruiswijk returns to the starting line up as do Sweeney and Gasbarroni. Liverpool were without both Morientes and Cisse so we had a chance. We won the coin toss and opted to start the game, and start we did, but it was a bad start. The first real attack of the game saw Kewell cross from the left and Crouch (bloody bean pole) rise above Kruiswijk and head home after just 5mins. Not the way we'd imagined it but there was still plenty of time to get back into it however we didn't. We lacked the drive really and Liverpool dominated the half, Zaza being forced to make 3 great saves before the half ended. We hadn't had a shot at goal and really we didn't deserve to.

The second half began and nothing changed. We were still being dominated and soon enough were behind further. Zenden crossed this time but it was Crouch who kept things familar, heading home from 6 yards. The same routine followed with us just clearing the ball before it came back. Batty changed things up with Sweeney and Gasbarroni both making way, Vaz Te and Guarin coming in to replace them with 20mins left. The changes didn't make a difference and Liverpool coasted to an easy win. We had just 1 shot at goal throughout the entire match. Pathetic..

F/T: Liverpool 2-0 Leeds United

After the game Silva told the press of a dressing room bust up with a couple of players. He is believed to have laid into the whole team for the way they just sat back and defended throughout the game, at one point he reckoned that he had to be held back as things got a little too heated between the gaffer and one of his players. In the week Healy resumed full training and Harding mouthed off to the press about moving to a bigger club. Batty told him to stay put as he was very much part of his big plan for Leeds United's future success.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 74

We went into our next game against Birmingham at full strength pretty much. Batty had given the lads a proper grilling after the Liverpool game and over the course of the week looked to drill some sence into the team. I saw them training and they were getting a good hard work out as punishment for that disasterous showing at the weekend.

Leeds United Vs Birmingham City, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gabarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Sweeney, Kelly, Guarin, Healy.

Due to crowd conjestion the start of the match was delayed by 15mins but when the game did get started we looked alot better, the first 30 seconds saw Gasbarroni shoot just over from distance and we continued to press with Warner and again Gasbarroni coming close before we finally made the breakthrough on the half hour mark. Clarke found Walton in the middle unmarked and he threaded a beautiful through ball for Warner who side footed home at the near post. We kept pressing them for the rest of the half but Birmingham came back into it a little towards the end. The whistle ended the half and we had a deserved lead.

The second half began and we increased our lead not long after. Warner held up the ball on the right before knocking it to Silva, he crossed and found Adu who headed home pretty much unmarked. Good goal and more than welcome but it didn't stop there as a routine clearence became a circus act with Tebily trying to head back to Taylor, Warner skipped in, did a little shimmy before drilling through the keepers legs for his second of the match. Didn't all go our way though as a couple of minutes later they got one back. Izzet tricked his way down the right before crossing and Forsell got away from Kruiswijk to fire home with ease. That seemed to spur us on further and we soon made up for it with 20mins left. Adu found acre's of space thanks to Walton's pass, he fed Warner who's first effort was saved well before he got the ball back and drilled it across goal where Adu aimed and fired it into the net. Our lead was restored and it really was a shambles defence we were facing at times with Warner and Adu really showing that they can be a strike force to rival some of the best around. But again we seemed hell bent on destruction as a routine cross saw Kruiswijk push Pandiani and Nafti coolly stepped up to smash the penalty low to Zaza's left. Guarin was brought on soon after to replace Gasbarroni. Birmingham were finding alot more space now and seemed to have a bit more confidence, Heskey shot just over before Batty made his final changes, the superb Adu and Warner were brought off for Sweeney and Healy to close out the match and they did that with ease. Good win, silly goals conceded but 3 points in the bag. Adu was given the man of the match award.

F/T: Leeds United 4-2 Birmingham City

That game brought a close to the first half of the season with us flying to be honest. Our next match will see us face West Brom at home as the busy x-mas period begins and changes will more than likely be made in order to keep the squad fresh.

Leeds United Vs West Bromich Albion, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Guarin, Dunn, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Kelly, Adu, Walton, Healy.

Again at home and again brass monkey weather. Bitterly cold and another pie and tea were the order of the day as i took my seat. My head still throbbed from yesterdays x-mas day celebrations. I got some good stuff in my stocking, including the new PS3 and PSP which i took pride in showing off to my brothers, what? I'm a big kid when it comes down to it. Back to the game and they kicked off the game. The first 10-15mins weren't classic but we did take the lead. Both sides had been making trouble in the area but Vayrynen controlled Clarkes long pass brilliantly before back heeling it into the path of Warner who leathered it home from the edge of the area low to the keepers right. West Brom weren't going to give up so quickly with both Ellington and Gera forcing Zaza into action to keep things in our favour. They had further chances and really began to pin us back but Zaza was equal to the challenge and we managed to go in at the half in front.

We came out looking better at the start of the half before Batty made some changes. Vayrynen and Dunn came off for Adu and Walton with Walton slipping in the centre of the midfield trio, Guarin going to the right. We came close to doubling the lead when Adu fed in Warner, he found his way past two West Brom players before shooting just over the bar. Wasn't all us as West Brom again found ways to test Zaza with Gera meeting a well worked corner with a strong header, luckily it was pushed away and cleared. Batty made his final change of the match with around quarter of an hour to go. Warner came off to rapturous applause for Healy. Coming into injury time a throw in brought Babos from his goal to make one final push for an equaliser but nothing came of it. The dying second brought their best chance to get one back as Gera bombed forward and played it across goal. Zaza was stranded as Ellington simply helped it on and Wallworks low drive was cleared off the line by Kruiswijk and secure the win. Good game and another 3 points. Zaza was man of the match for his superb goalkeeping display, truely brilliant.

F/T: Leeds United 1-0 West Bromich Albion

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 75

It was now 2007 and we got a few suprises to start the new year. The main one being that Matt Warner finished second to Eto'o for the European player of the year award and 3rd behind Eto'o and Henry in the European striker of the year award. A great achievement for lad and it finishes whats been a great 2006. Top scorer in the Championship and record setter, a Championship winners medal, Supporters player of the year, a World Cup winners medal and now 2nd and 3rd place for two major footballing awards. A year and a half ago he was struggling to save an already injury ravaged career and now he is reguarded as one of the best forwards in the world. Ruiz and Coloccini completed move to the club in time for our home game against Middlesborough while Eddie Lewis left for Porto. Batty assued us that both new signings would play some part in the game with Jones looking likely to make way for Coloccini to start.

Leeds United Vs Middlesbrough, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Bennett, Kelly, Sweeney, Guarin, Ruiz.

Again it was freezing cold, again i had my lovely pie and tea and again i found myself disappointed with our start. We folded against them last time and we looked like we'd do the same again. A long punt forward by Brown found Yakubu's run and he slotted home under pressure to give them the early lead. I almost chucked me pie, bloody useless! Coloccini was at fault and he wasn't instilling confidence in the fans with this kind of start. The rest of the half was poor and despite us making a couple of chances we were utter ***** and Batty had to be gearing up for a good old tea cup throwing session when he got em all in the changing rooms.

The second half didn't improve and the game slumped into a boring midfield knock around really with neither side creating anything close to a goal scoring chance. We looked like we'd been on the **** till god knows when this morning and the new signing looked very much out of place. Guarin came on for the largely unimpressive Gasbarroni in an attempt to inject some life into our play. Sadly it didn't work, we did come close when Adu got space towards the end of the match but his cleaver shot clipped the outside of the post. The final whistle went on what was an embarassing game and one we'd have to improve on if were to stay where we are.

F/T: Leeds United 0-1 Middlesbrough

Premiership Table, January 1st

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

2. Arsenal (22) (14) (4) (4) (41) (19) 46pts

3. Man Utd (22) (14) (3) (5) (40) (19) 45pts

4. Chelsea (21) (13) (6) (2) (33) (14) 45pts

5. Newcastle (22) (13) (1) (8) (41) (25) 40pts

6. Leeds Utd (21) (10) (4) (7) (35) (28) 34pts

Scorers Charts

1. Van Nistelrooy (Man Utd) 21 goals

2. Owen (Newcastle) 21 goals

3. Henry (Arsenal) 18 goals

4. Warner (Leeds) 17 goals

5. Drogba (Chelsea) 13 goals

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 76

After the defeat Batty laid into his squad publicly saying that if the so called 'big' players wish to keep their big pay packets they better start performing as he had no room for second rate performances and slackers. Batty also sought to add to our playing staff with Christian Schulz being his main target for the transfer window. He looked like an excellent young player from what i've seen in terms of clips i've seen of him thanks to our interest but wheather we get him is a different story altogether. Our next match is in the F.A. Cup with Batty expected to name a second string 11 in order to rest the first teamers in time for our game against Bolton in the league on Wednesday.

Leeds United Vs Derby County, F.A. Cup 3rd round: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Stack, Nyatanga, Gregan ©, Coloccini, Fray, Soley, Sweeney, Whelan, Dunn, Di Canio, Ruiz. (Subs) Bennett, Kelly, Clarke, Vayrynen, Mourad.

An understrength side going into this game with Batty opting to play a couple of the old guns in Gregan and Di Canio and also the players that have failed to impress this season. No Warner, Adu, Walton or Zokora in the squad and maybe Batty is looking to rid the teams fixture list of the this competition in order to concetrate on the league and what now seems like a very realistic chance of European football next season. They kicked the game off and we set into a strong pattern of domination with Dunn, Ruiz and Di Canio all having chances in the opening 20mins but they took the lead as Smith got ahead of Gregan to score at the near post thanks to Bischoff's low cross. They weren't ahead for long after De Zeewu brought down Ruiz on the edge of the area and Sweeney curled home a great free kick into the top corner and 12mins later, just before half time Sweeney scored again, from the same place with another free kick to give us the lead. A minute later though we were undone again as Gregan let Smith get into space to slot home a pass from Holmes on the edge of the 6 yard box to even things up just before half time.

The second half began with us again dominating the play, only took 10mins for Batty to bring on subs with Di Canio coming off for Vayrynen and Clarke replacing Sweeney. The game became a boring and slow affair and Batty made his final change with Dunn coming off for Kelly. He'll move to right back while Fray will go to the right of the midfield trio. It didn't get better for us as both Clarke and Ruiz both missed golden oppertunities to finish them off. The game ended in a draw meaning another match was ahead of us. I doubt Batty really cared about this match but with the talent in the team we should have won. Crap basicly.

F/T: Leeds United 2-2 Derby County

The game was disappointing but it was just a cup match with a half strength side so not too much worry in it really. Batty was linked to the Real Zaragoza job after their manager resigned but Batty again refuted claims he was favourite as he would not be throwing his hat into the ring or any ring for that matter if it involves him Leaving Leeds United. The following days were dull and the build up slow to our next game against Bolton away. They'd be a massive disappointment this season after last terms heroic's so they'd be looking to continue they're three game unbeaten run while we'd be looking to start one sometime soon. Chelsea also made the headlines when they slammed Leeds and Ken Bates for rejecting a staggering £50m bid for Matt Warner, but Batty said in a press conference,

"Matt is under contract at Leeds and we have no obligation to sell him, no matter what the price offered. He has no release clause, he's happy here and it's about time that Chelsea realised that they aren't going to get everything they want as soon as they throw money in people's faces. They've been trying for the last year or so to land Matt and it isn't going to happen. I'm going to build the team around the lad and Chelsea are just gonna have to deal with that."

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 77

Bolton Wanderers Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Formation: 4-1-3-1-1) (Starting 11) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Kelly, Sweeney, Guarin, Healy

We returned to full strength and looked to make it count against a under-performing Bolton side. Coloccini was dumped in favour of Jones and Ruiz lost his place on the bench to Healy. We got things started and looked to take the game to them. I think we must have caught them cold because we took the lead after what was a routine looking cross was left by both defender and keeper leaving Gasbarroni to slide in with a header and give us the lead after just 15mins. In true Bolton style they quickly made up for it as Ifil got down the left well and his cross was met by a thunderous volley at the back post by Borgetti to level the scores on 17mins. It became a midfield contest really for a while after that but when a chance did come it came to us and we made sure it went in. Some slick passing between Silva, Walton and Zokora created space for Gasbarroni to cross, Warner met it at the edge of the area with a brilliant hook shot into the keepers top right hand corner. We tried to keep up the tempo but Bolton were still finding ways to torement our defenders, just before half time Bogetti again got free at the back post but he header was well wide. In at the break and with the lead, wonder what Batty will be saying.

The second half was slow to start for us with Bolton having the main chances of the opening few minutes but we stretched our lead after 55mins when Bolton failed to clear their lines, Adu got the ball in acres, played in Warner who slotted away to the keepers left for his second goal of the game and right after the restart he got another. Harding won the ball back from Ifil, he played it to Walton who fed Adu. Adu knocked it wide, Harding crossed and Warner was free to tap it home past the stranded keeper to complete his hat trick. Cruising now, 3 points surely on the board and a major confidence boost going into next weeks game against Chelsea. The goals brought a change to the line up with the goal scorers Warner and Gasbarroni making way for Healy and Guarin to make they're mark on the game. It was more even after the changes but no real clear cut chances, Harding made way for Sweeney with around 10mins left and he almost got himself an assist when he fed Healy but the shot was over the bar by a mile. Adu and Walton both came close in the closing stages but Borgetti managed to get one back for Bolton after Ifil again skipped past Clarke and chipped it in for Borgetti who netted a glancing header. It livened up quite a lot for the last couple of minutes with Adu almost increasing the lead while Borgetti came close to getting his hat trick but the scores stayed the same and the whistle blew to call and end to the evenings proceedings. Great game to watch but still some questions over our defending at times. Warner was man of the match for his excellent perfomance.

F/T: Bolton Wanderers 2-4 Leeds United

After the game Batty placed Whelan and Dunn on the transfer list. Neither have been impressive and Dunn is the worst signing we've made in a while. Both look set to leave soon and Batty is also looking at bringing a few players in. Andreas D'Alessandro is close to joining while his 20 year old countryman Lucas Biglia could also join pending a work permit. Both have huge talent and would be welcome additions to the squad. Next up in the league would be a visit to reigning champions Chelsea, they beat us 3-1 last time round so hopefuly we can put a dent in their title bid and beat them in their own back yard. We'll be missing Zaza through injury and Adu thanks to international duty.

Chelsea Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Kelly, Sweeney, Guarin, Ruiz.

Not full strength but it was the best we could muster. The game was live on Sky so i didn't have to miss it. I settled into my sofa, switched on the plasma screen and got ready to enjoy the game. We kicked off and things started evenly with both sides having chances in the opening 10mins. Warner came close early on when he got away from Carvalho to collect Walton's long pass and his slow short nicked the leg of Cech before just trickling wide. The rest of the half we were forced to defend really and we defended well, they're only real effort at goal coming in the dying seconds of the half when Carlton Cole got away from his man to collect Essien's pass and hit a first time shot which Bennett saved well. End of the half we we weren't playing all the badly but we were definatly missing Adu's creativity in the middle of the park.

A long that normal wait for the second half followed before the sides came out minus their managers who had both been sent to the stands thanks to a scuffle in the tunnel at half time between the pair. More fun from the land of Batty. When the half did begin Crespo almost got them the lead as he got in behind the defence to meet Lampard's cross but again Bennett was equal to it and not only that. Essien found a bit of space 30 yards out a moment later and let rip with a wicked shot which again Bennett tipped over brillliantly. After that Batty called down to Sam Ellis to make the changes. Vayrynen, Harding and Gasbarroni were all making way for Ruiz, Sweeney and Guarin. Warner would drop into the withdrawn forward role with Ruiz going upfront as the lone striker and it seemed to work after a routine header into the area from a Clakre throw saw Ruiz bundled over by Terry and we had a penalty. Walton took the ball, placed it and scored, side footing it low to the keepers right hand side to give us the lead in the most unlikely place in the country. It was now a case of hold on because Chelsea were gonna hit us and hit us hard if they got the chance. However, they say lightning can't strike twice don't they? Coloccini, who'd been brilliant dispossesed Joe Cole and fired it up field. Carvalho looked to control the ball but Warner nicked it and streaked forward. It was two on one in our favour and Warner drew Cech off his line then played it between him and Terry for Ruiz to tap in from 6 yards out. Bad mistake but we made it count and now we were in the driving seat. Chelsea looked like they had lost their edge after that and Ruiz almost scored another when Guarin worked well down the right and crossed but Cech got down well and saved. But Chelsea are always a threat and Joe Cole beat the offside trap and flew forward before crossing to the back post where Cahill headed home to give them a goal but it was too little too late as the whistle blew a minute or so later to give us the points. Great win and a massive confidence booster. Zokora was man of the match but it could have been Coloccini as he was superb at the back.

F/T: Chelsea 1-2 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 78

The morning after we recieved a blow as Bennett will be out for anything upto 4 weeks with an injury he picked up during the game and with Zaza also out it means were looking a little bit short on the ground in terms of cover but the good news was that Lucas Biglia was granted a work permit and will move join us at the end of the season. He's a defensive midfielder and Batty looks like he's talent hunting for the future and we were also close to agreeing a deal to bring 21 year old Sao Paulo midfielder Fabio Santos to the club in a £5m deal. Bates had urged Batty to bring in a high profile star to the club and has freed up extra funds to ensure this happens. Next for us however was the F.A. Cup replay against Derby away, again a mainly second string 11 for this one with Ferrari returning from a long injury lay up to start and

Derby County Vs Leeds United, F.A. Cup 3rd round replay: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Ferrari, Coloccini, Fray, Soley, Sweeney, Gregan ©, Guarin, Vaz Te, Ruiz. (Subs) Sulivan, Kelly, Harding, Gasbarroni, Mourad.

The first half was a poor affair really with not much in the way of action, Smith was making trouble but we took the lead just before half time when Guarin chipped it forward and Vaz Te nodded it into the path of Ruiz who smashed it low under Lee Camp to give us the advantage. The first half saw 5 bookings and i was willing to bet someone would be seeing red before the game was done. We led at half time and in the second half Guarin picked up a slight knock and Batty took him off for Gasbarroni. Derby came into the game alot more and came close a couple of times through Smith but Stack was equal to it. Further changes were made when Harding and Mourad came on for Sweeney and Ruiz. Both had played well but looked tired. They came close again shortly after as Ferrari fluffed a pretty easy looking piece of defending, Smith got the ball, crossed to the back post where Graham was waiting but his header was turned away brilliantly by Stack. It took us a while but we did add to the lead with 10mins to go. Harding got to Valente's deflected pass and moved in on goal, his first shot was saved but as the ball came back to him he chipped to the back post where Mourad and Valente clashed and the ball ended up in the back of the net. We started to dominate them and another goal came shortly after when Ferrari collected a short corner and crossed deep for Mourad to power a header back across goal. Good goal and his first for the club. In the final minutes Derby got one back when former Leeds lad Seth Johnson got a header in at the back post to convery Ashton's looping cross. The game ended, poor match but were through to the next round, though i doubt Batty wanted that as now we had an extra match to play and it would be at home to Charlton. Coloccini was man of the match.

F/T: Derby County 1-3 Leeds United

The following days were dull one's as we geared up for our crunch match against bitter rivals Manchester United. We were expected to name the same team that beat Chelsea at the weekend and a win would certainly push us alot closer to perhaps a very unlikely and late push for that last place in next seasons Champions League. We missed out on Andres D'Alessandro who decided against a move to Leeds but we made a loan move for Pedro Mendes from Spurs until the end of the season.

Leeds United Vs Manchester United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Silva ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Sulivan, Kelly, Sweeney, Guarin, Ruiz.

I was in my seat a while before anyone else. The pitch looked great and soon enough the ground filled up the point of bursting, 40,000 in attendence to see us play our most hated rivals in a clash of 6th Vs 4th. A win for us would take us up a place and right behind Man Utd and just 3 points away from 2nd place. A win for them would given them a welcome boost in their bid to catch runaway leaders Liverpool at the top of the table. Warner would be aiming to make his best mate James Pamma work in the United goal, he moved for £4m in the summer and has been a consitant starter for the side. We were still without Adu but they were missing Van Nistelrooy, Ferdinand, Rooney, and C. Ronaldo so we had a good chance of getting a result.

The match kicked off and it was a very even start as Harding and Scholes were having the run of the midfield with Harding looking really good but a little hesitant at times to play the final ball. One player who wasn't lacking that ability was Gasbarroni, he tricked his way past Smith in the middle after collecting Clarkes clearence and his chipped ball forward was chested down by Warner and then volleyed home with venom at Pamma's near post to give us the lead. Brilliant goal and great to see against the so called 'bigger' team of the two sides playing. Warner almost got in again moments later when Clarke's deflected pass fell to Harding who threaded through for Warner who bent his run to perfection before firing low, sadly Pamma was equal to it this time. The game was turning into a classic with some slick, fast end to end football being played. Warner and Vayrynen both came close to adding to the lead for us while Coloccini and Kruiswijk were playing well to keep their front two quiet. Half time brought an end to a very exciting game, lots of action and some great football. We led but we had no room to get complacent.

Some excellent play by Giggs down the right brought the best from Stack as Saha got up a header from point blank range but Stack was there to make a wonderful save. The game was jsut as exciting with Vayrynen and Gasbarroni making trouble. Zokora was a rock in the midfield breaking down attacks and feeding the ball forward. Changes were made with around 25mins left, Vayrynen was looking tired and he was brought off for Ruiz with Warner going to the withdrawn forward role. We were matching them man for man all over the pitch, Warner was striking terror into the defence time and again with his quick and strong running with the ball. We were into the last 10mins of the game, Man Utd's Gallas spat his dummy out after being substituted but for us Gasbarroni came off to a standing ovation, he was replaced by Guarin for the closing stages. It became frantic, Giggs fired straight at Stack for them and Ruiz came close to adding to the lead. The board read 4mins added on time and it was all hands to the pump as we pinned them back for the entire time and as soon as the whistle went we were dancing and and singing "Who are ya?" to the travelling support. Another fantastic result, another 3 points that lifts us to 5th and into the hunt for that last Champions League place. Gasbarroni was superb and was given man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 1-0 Manchester United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 79

Our bid for Fabio Santos fell through as he felt it would be a step backwards in his career to move to us (pr**k) so Batty made moves to bring Barcelona's Argentinian striker Maxi Lopez to Leeds by making a £3.5m offer for him but with Athletico Madrid and Roma also in the hunt we may come off second best again. Glenn Whelan will leave at the end of the season after agreeing terms with Leicester, we'll get £500k for him while Soley also looks set to go with Watford and Tranmere interested. Sulivan could also leave at the end of the season, his contract runs out in the summer and a few clubs have shown a keen interest in him. Chelsea will play Everton in the Carling Cup final after they beat Crystal Palace and Spurs respectivly.

Next for us was our F.A. Cup tie against Charlton. We were at home and i had a feeling that maybe Batty would go for it now we'd made it through the next round but with our next game in the league being against Crystal Palace he may rest a few first teamers. Zokora and Soley were away on international duty for the African Cup of Nations so they'd be missing for the next few games meaning Guarin or Gregan will play in the holding midfield role for the next few matches.

Leeds United Vs Charlton Athletic, F.A. Cup 4th round: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Silva ©, Guarin, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Sulivan, Kelly, Sweeney, Gregan, Ruiz.

I didn't bother going to this one as the missus was under the weather and really coming along with the pregnancy but i did listen to it on the radio. They started and started quickly, wasting no time in making Stack work. Ambrose knocked in a lovely ball and Bent beat Kruiswijk to it and stretched to tap it home but Stack made a lovely save and it was cleared by Clarke. We had a couple of oppertunities and after 7mins we took the lead. Gasbarroni collected a Charlton clearence inside his own half, dribbled past 2 players and laid off to Walton who played it to Warner. He controlled with his back to goal before turning and firing home from 18 yards. A few moments later Vayrynen almost got his first for the club after Warner controlled Stacks long punt down field and knocked it back to Vayrynen who took off on a run that saw him beat 4 defenders before he hit it just wide from 12 yards out. Wasn't all us though as Ambrose again caused trouble down the right before crossing to the back post where Blake met it with a powerful header forcing Stack to save once more. Denilson and Silva had a bit of a Brazilian brawl as words and pushes were exchanged, they were both booked for their trouble. We pegged them back for the last quarter of the half, Warner, Guarin and Vayrynen came close to adding but at half time we went in ahead by just the one goal.

Charlton came out looking to make up for a poor first half and Blake almost did that in the first 30 seconds when he got free 30 yards out and lashed a shot towards the top corner which was just nicked over by the finger of Stack. He's been outstanding these last few games and i thought he'd be leaving at the end of the season but these performances of late have been fantastic so don't rule him out of becoming a future number one for us. Vayrynen had one more good oppertunity just before he went off for Ruiz. Gasbarroni found a way past Hriedersson and cross to the edge of the area where Vayrynen's volley crashed of the bar before being cleared. After the change Warner dropped into the withdrawn forward role to accomodate Ruiz up front however we were made to pay for not taking our numerous chances as Ambrose played in Bent who beat the offside trap to slide it under the oncoming Stack at the near post to level the scores and a minute later we fell apart further when Rommadahl floated in a free kick from the left and Murphy rose highest to head it into the top corner to make it two in two minutes for them. Really reall poor defending from what i hear. After the goal Batty made changes with Kelly coming on for Gasbarroni with Silva going to the right of the midfield trio and not long after we had the equaliser. Silva lashed the ball 60 yards across field. Ruiz chased it down on the right and played it across goal for Warner to smash it in fron 6 yards out with 3mins left. We could find a way through for a winner and so we'd go to the Valley to decide who progresses. Warner was man of the match for his brace.

F/T: Leeds United 2-2 Charlton Athletic

Silva's booking earned him a one match ban and our bid for Maxi Lopez was rejected meaning it was back to the drawing board for Batty with the transfer window looming larger and larger by the day. With that bid failed Batty made a bid for 23 year old Czech international Tomas Sivok and and Leon Osman from Everton in what would be a £5m double deal. However our good news was cut short as David Healy suffered a torn groin muscle (ouchies) and will more than likely miss the rest of the season which now opens the door for both Mourad and Ruiz to really make their mark in the first team.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 80

Tuesday morning started with Batty introducing Tomas Sivok and Leon Osman to the fans as his newest recruits. Those signings takes Batty's spending this season to £32m all in all and both could play a part in the Palace game. Zokora returns from international duty and will more than likely start to strengthen our defence and midfield. Personally i welcome him with open arms as at time we've looked lost defensivly without him.

Crystal Palace Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Kelly ©, Zokora, Harding, Walton, Gasbarroni, Osman, Warner. (Subs) Stack, Fray, Sweeney, Sivok, Ruiz.

We kicked things off but not in the way we wanted at all. Johnson collected the ball in the middle of the park before spreading it out wide to meet Vaughan's run and his chip towards the near post saw Mido and Zaza both miss the ball and it ended up in the back of the net, our defenders were screaming foul by Mido but the ref waved the plea's away and gave the goal. Not a great start but we made up for it when moments later Warner was fouled about 50 yards out, Coloccini took the free kick quickly and found Warner in the area, he produced a lovely bit of trickery, turned his man and fired low at the near post to equalise on 7mins. His 23rd of the season. For most of the half Palace controlled the game and we almost conceded another after Soares caught Gasbarroni lingering with the ball on the edge of his own area but Zaza came to our rescue producing a brilliant double save to keep things level, Coloccini made the final clearence and that let Warner lose. He caught the ball, moved down the left and rounded Raul Bravo before the former Leeds loanee blatantly fouled him and the ref had no option but to point to the spot. Walton stepped up looking calm and didn't disappoint as he side footed it home with power and accuracy.

That was the last action of the half, we led but hopefuly Batty sent them out knowing they hadn't been brilliant by any means and they was echo'd when Vaughan moved up the right unchallenged and crossed but the cross bar came to our aid as Soares made the header from 6 yards. After that Batty made changes with Warner and Gasbarroni coming off for Ruiz and Fray. Both of them looking tired as they came off the field. With 20mins left Palace were still pressing us and they soon got under our skin as Vaughan again made his way down the right unchecked and played the ball in, this time Zokora brought down Mido and the ref gave another penalty which Poborsky netted. Scores level again and Zokora for once was having a stinker. With that in mind Batty brought on Sivok for his debut with Zokora making way for him however Batty was soon regreting that last subsitution as Harding picked up an injury forcing him to come off and now we were down to 10 men with 10mins left. It wasn't all going to go the way of Palace as we cleared from a corner Ruiz beat Butterfield to the ball and as he looked to come in from the left he skinned Raul Bravo and had a wicked shot from the tight angle saved. In the dying seconds we had a golden oppertunity to take the lead when Kiraly came out to meet a pass which Ruiz intercepted but he waited too long and was tackled, he earned a free kick from it though but the shot hit the cross bar and Fray blasted over. The game was finished after that and we had a point, it was a real bruiser a match as Osman and Zaza finished the game carrying knocks and Harding was stretched off. Batty had some strong words for Dowie after the the game outside the dressing rooms so i hear as did other in what some say became a mass brawl. Disappointing in more ways as we missed a big chance to go level on points with Chelsea and Man Utd.

F/T: Crystal Palace 2-2 Leeds United

After the game Batty laid into Palace and Dowie for their tactic's which saw Osman, Zaza and Harding all suffer Injury. An x-rated tackle from Raul Bravo saw Harding tear his knee ligaments and Bravo got away without so much as a telling off from the ref. Osman will miss a month or so with a twisted ankle but Zaza will be fit for our next match. Batty said it was a disgusting match and that Dowie will be hearing alot more about this in the future thanks to his dirty tactic's ruled out two key players for the foreseeable future. Despite his run in he was made Manager of the Month while Walton was 2nd place in the young player of the month award. In the week Fray came down with flu and Guarin picked up a slight knock which would rule him out for Sundays game against bottom placed Sunderland.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 81

Leeds United Vs Sunderland, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Coloccini, Silva ©, Sivok, Sweeney, Walton, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Fray, Nyatanga, Zokora, Ruiz.

We started the game looking like we were on a mission, settling quickly into a pattern of quick passing and inventive play. Vayrynen forced a header towards goal which was tipped away before being cleared. We spent the half pressing them with Walton, Sweeney and Sivok all coming close to breaking the dead lock. Vayrynen came closest after he managed to direct Waltons tame shot towards goal but the keeper was equal to it. The ref called an end to the half and we'd have to start making more of our chances if we were to win. Our build up play has been brilliant but we seem to be lacking that final killer ball and at times looked like we were trying to walk it in.

The second half started slowly but finally after almost an hour of constant pressure we took the lead. Clarke had miles of space to play with and his long cross into the box from the half way line was met by the glancing head of Warner before the ball nestled in the back of the net. However Sunderland had all the luck as they attacked straight from the restart, Nosworthy crossed and Stead headed it in from 12 yards out. Our hard work down the drain so soon and Batty was going mental on the side lines after that one went in and they almost got another as Stead tricked past Coloccini and knocked in a low cross which Brown met with a angled shot but Stack was on his toes this time and tipped it over. Sunderland pressed us for the rest of the half, we looked really really poor and Walton almost walked the ball into his own net with minutes to go but the we held on and finished with a draw. Good result for them, a really crap one for us. Warner was man of the match but really, no one deserved it as we simply weren't good enough.

F/T: Leeds United 1-1 Sunderland

We had a short international break after that game, shorter than most as we would be playing Charlton in our F.A. Cup replay on saturday. Walsall await one of us in the next round and should we go through we'd be playing at home again but in the meantime the players were given a break from training as eleven of their team mates went off to play for their countries. Warner, Walton, Coloccini, Zaza, Clarke, Stack, Sivok, Ruiz, Guarin, Vayrynen and Adu being the players called up.

Premiership Table, Febuary 7th

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

1. Liverpool (26) (17) (9) (0) (47) (14) 60pts

2. Arsenal (26) (15) (6) (5) (48) (26) 51pts

3. Man Utd (26) (15) (4) (7) (47) (24) 49pts

4. Chelsea (24) (13) (7) (3) (40) (20) 49pts

5. Leeds Utd (26) (13) (6) (7) (45) (34) 45pts

6. Newcastle (25) (14) (2) (9) (46) (28) 44pts

Scorers Charts

1. R. Van Nistelrooy, 24 goals

2. M. Warner, 23 goals

3. T. Henry, 21 goals

4. M. Owen, 21 goal

5. D. Bent, 15 goals

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 82

Englands friendly with Bulgaria ended in a draw, Owen and Warner netted for England and Walton got his first cap after coming on as a sub. He later went on to thank Batty for helping him move up a gear in his football and become a full international. Adu would be available for the first time in nearly a month going into the Charlton game as would Ferrari and Bennett who have both been deemed fit to play.

Charlton Athletic Vs Leeds United, F.A. Cup 4th round replay: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Bennett, Clarke, Ferrari, Coloccini, Silva ©, Zokora, Vaz Te, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Fray, Nyatanga, Sivok, Ruiz.

The ref got things started with a high pitched whistle and the game was away. We looked to make up for our poor form of late and almost made a scoring start when Warner streaked down the right at speed before passing low to the edge of the area where Vaz Te had a pop at goal but it was well wide. A minute or so later Charlton thought they had scored when Murphy played a brilliant ball through to Bent, he knocked it right to Horsefield who smash low and hard into the goal but the linesman flagged for offside against Bent. Charlton began to press us for long periods after that and at one point tempers began to flare as Ferrari went in two footed on Bent, Silva pushed Denilson and all hell broke lose. When everything calmed down bookings were handed out to various players in scuffle but none sent off by referee Ryan. With a few minutes left of the half Charlton finally got their reward and Ambrose again caused trouble down the right, he found space to cross and Bent met the ball with a bullet header back across goal to give them the lead.

The second half didn't start quickly for us as Charlton picked up where they left off, dominating the play and making life hard for us. Vaz Te picked up a knock around 10mins into the half and Batty brought on Nyatanga to go in at left back with Clarke going on the left of the midfield trio. We did manage to have a couple of chances but nothing worth mentioning which made Batty make more changes. Adu came off for Ruiz who switched places with Warner and Fray came on for Gasbarroni with Silva moving to the right midfield spot. It didn't change anything and the game ended shortly after with no real action to speak of. Really really crap match and we were just as bad.

F/T: Charlton Athletic 1-0 Leeds United

That defeat now leaves us without a win in our last 4 matches and it was time we really sorted out our back line as at times we looked all over the place and were simply out-classed. Adu was sent on a week's holiday to re-energise and Bennett twisted his ankle badly in training and will miss the next 2 weeks to a month. We play Spurs next and were looking a bit thin on the ground in terms of cover. The line up would be strong and hopefuly this time we'd be able to beat them. The lay 5 points behind us in 7th and a win could really put pressure on us to perform but things were just getting harder and harder for us as Coloccini tore his knee ligaments and ruled him out for a while meaning we now have just 2 accomplished centre backs. Jones is out with a gashed arm and is doubtful for the trip to London but the team still looks strong and we may be able to get a result if luck goes our way.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 83

Tottenham Hotspur Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva, Sivok, Vaz Te, Walton, Guarin, Gasbarroni, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Nyatanga, Fray, Adu, Ruiz.

Adu returned from his break and went onto the bench for this one. After last weekends disaster Batty changed things around slightly, hopefuly we'd manage to win this time. The opening 5mins brought chances for both sides but we came closest to making a quick start when Warner controlled and skinned King on the left, he was home free and played the ball to Gasbarroni who instead of shooting into an almost open goal passed it back to Warner where Robinson smothered it at his feet. Those two had words after that. We came close a couple of times, at one point hitting the cross bar but they managed to take the lead after half hour. Routledge knocked in a free kick from the right, Tainio escaped his marker and just helped it on with his right foot. Again, we were defending poorly and it could have been more as our defensive lapses allowed Jerome and Bradley Wright-Phillips to come close. Half time came around and the lads were in for it i imagine.

We managed to start the second half looking alot sharper, Vaz Te had a chance thanks to some inventive play but after 10mins of the half we had to changes things as Guarin picked up an injury so Adu came on with Gasbarroni going back to his right midfield role. We kept on pressing them and came close a couple of times but looked like we'd be rolled over again. Nyatanga came on in the last 10mins for Vaz Te with Clarke going to left midfield and for that last 10mins we dominated them, Warner, Adu and Clarke all came close to leveling the scores but in the end we just couldn't do it and fell to another disappointing defeat.

F/T: Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 Leeds United

Midweek saw the return of the Champions League with all our sides involved in away ties for the first leg games with Arsenal beating Ajax 1-0, Man Utd drawing 0-0 with Barcelona. Chelsea also drew 0-0 with CSKA Moscow and Liverpool took on holders Inter Milan and got a 2-2 draw in the San Siro. At the weekend some teams played while we had a long break, wasn't all a dead loss though as i watched the Carling Cup final between Chelsea and Everton. Huth was sent off after just 15mins but Ronaldo struck twice either side of the half while Anelka got a late consolation goal in Chelsea's 2-1 win at New Wembly to clinch the first silverware of the season.

Aston Villa Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Stack, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Jones, Silva ©, Zokora, Sweeney, Walton, Gasbarroni, Adu, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Nyatanga, Fray, Vayrynen, Ruiz.

Jones, Zokora, Sweeney and Adu return to the starting line up as we looked to get our first win in 5 games. The ref's whistle got things underway and Villa were in control for the first 25mins. Only a couple of chances mind you but we were looking lost upfront, Warner still hadn't touched the ball and after half hour and one touch he came off with injury, Ruiz came on to replace him. It was only a matter of time really but with 10mins to go in the half Bouma got the the right and Fortune headed his cross in to add to our woes and it just seemed to be getting worse and worse as again some filthy play by those dirty cheating Villa f**kers saw Adu hobble off with injury before half time meaning Vayrynen would come on to fill his boots. Villa kept on pressing and almost got another through a goal mouth scramble but Zokora's clearence was won in the air by Ruiz. Vayrynen collected and flew towards goal before chipping it over both keeper and defender to find Ruiz arriving at the back post to level the scores on the brink of half time. But, our luck is crap at the moment and we couldn't hold out for 30 seconds before a long throw forward found Baros' unchecked run, he controlled well and scored with a low powerful shot at Stacks near post.

The first half began as the second half ended with them scoring. We stupidly gave away the ball 3 times in the space of 30 seconds, the 3rd time they punished us when Bouma outdid Silva and played it to Baros, Jones fouled him, the ref gave a penalty and Baros finished. The next 20mins was simply us losing the ball and them attacking. We never had the ball long enough to attack ourselves, the only ray of light was Ruiz up front who caused trouble whenever he had the ball, which wasn't often thanks to his team mates. They made it 4-1 not long after when Man Utd reject Quinton Fortune moved in unmarked to head home Hendries free kick. F**kin pathetic and by the end of the match the traveling fans were all gone, they started leaving when the 4th went in.

F/T: Aston Villa 4-1 Leeds United

After the match Batty talked to the BBC camera breifly and said,

"This was by far the worst game i have ever had to endure as manager of this team. The lads were an absolute embarassment to myself, the club and the fans, their perfomance was pathetic and they're gonna issue a public apology at the training ground on Monday for anyone who wants to show up. I can make no excuses for our form of late, we've been utter garbage and unless they start putting their all into the games and wearing that shirt with pride then they'll find themselves out on their arse so quick it'll make they're bling spin. If any of them don't like what i'm saying they can come to my office Monday morning and get put in the reserves for the rest of the season, no exceptions! Thankyou."

By far the truest words ever spoken by any manager ever, surely will go down as legendary next to Keegan's rant. We were useless, pathetic and a f**kin embarassment to the likes of Bremner, Charles and more importantly David Batty.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 84

Warner and Adu would be missing for the next month with groin and ankle injuries meaning we were on the bones of our arse. No less than nine first team players out of action going into our midweek game against Everton at home now as Stack picked up sprained ankle which would see him miss the next around a month and a half. It was going from bad to worse to...worserer for us injury wise. I myself did go down on Monday and the players did issue an apology to the crowd of fans who turned up. Batty had really instilled a high level of displine and respect in the side as none of them complained once to him about it.

Leeds United Vs Everton, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Gregan ©, Vaz Te, Walton, Guarin, Gasbarroni, Ruiz. (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Silva, Vayrynen, Mourad.

The game started with most of us talking about our poor form and why we were so poor but when the match began we rose with a few claps and promptly sat down. However, Batty's humbling of the squad seemed to have made some difference as just 2mins into the game Guarin's free kick from the left was met by Ferrari's header, it crashed off the underside of the bar and Ruiz finished it off to give us the lead. After the goal we came close a couple of times but we fell into the familar pattern of losing the ball and on the half hour mark we were punished when Carsley took the ball from Vaz Te all to easily and put it into the area, McCarthy's header hit the bar and no one was marking Anelka as he stole in and side footed home past Zaza. Towards the end of the half both sides had chances but we went in level after some good play but our defending was still suspect at times.

The second half started with them controlling and us having to defend deep in our own half. McCarthy and Anelka were both making life difficult for Kruiswijk and Ferrari. The pressed forward once more but Fray dispossed Hysen on the right and pumped the ball forward finding the run of Ruiz who controlled it brilliantly before rounding Wright in the Everton goal and finishing in style to give us back the lead. Great goal and Ruiz was looking better and better by the game. With 20mins left Batty brought off Walton who for once had been dire. He made way for Vayrynen. Gasbarroni when right, Guarin came into the centre and Vayrynen filled the withdrawn foward role. We pressed for the next couple of minutes then they bloody equalised, f**kin scousers! Hysen moved up the right with ease before crossing from deep, McCarthy got the header and Zaza was left on his behind as the ball went in. Just as we were thinking it was all going down hill we went straight up the other end, Clarke crossed and Vayrynen was brought down by Neville for a penalty. Vaz Te grabbed the ball and bloody missed with a really tame effort. We didn't come close again after that and the match ended. Ruiz was man of the match but we were poor to be honest.

F/T: Leeds United 2-2 Everton

Premiership Table, March 7th.

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

4. Newcastle (29) (16) (4) (9) (53) (32) 52pts

5. Chelsea (27) (14) (9) (4) (44) (25) 51pts

6. Tottenham (29) (13) (8) (8) (35) (29) 47pts

7. Leeds Utd (29) (13) (7) (9) (45) (41) 46pts

8. Blackburn (29) (11) (11) (7) (47) (40) 44pts

Top Scorers

1. R. Van Nistelrooy, 25 goals

2. M. Owen, 23 goals

3. M Warner, 23 goals

4. T. Henry, 21 goals

5. N. Ellington, 16 goals

What was at one point a really entertaining title race now looks to have gone the way of F1 with Liverpool playing the Schumacher role and walking away with it. They lead 2nd place Arsenal by 11 points going into the last 9 games of the season and i doubt they'll be caught. As for us, well it's grim reading as we've taken just 3 points from a possible 15 in our last five games and haven't won a game in our last seven outings. Very very grim reading as we went into our next game against West Ham which would be show live in Sky Sports. In the Champions League all our teams progressed to the next round.

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 85

West Ham United Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-1-3-1-1) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Zokora, Sweeney, Sivok, Gasbarroni, Vayrynen, Ruiz. (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Silva, Hotchkiss, Mourad.

Young Oliver Hotchkiss makes the squad for this one and could play a part, Zokora returns and Fray keeps his place as things got started. West Ham were also in a woeful patch, they hadn't won in seven games also and it really could go either way. The half was a really dire one. Both sides had chances to break the dealock but both sides also looked like they hadn't won in a while....which they hadn't in truth. We were playing slightly the better but even that wasn't good enough to find a goal. Ruiz managed to hit the side netting at one point while Harewood called Zaza into action before the half time whistle ended a very drab half.

With confidence in tatters and with lady luck deserting us it surely was only a matter of time before they got a goal. Sweeney's corner kick was cleared, Ethrington ran the ball from his own half into our 18 yard box pretty much unchallenged and scored with a placed effort 4mins into the half. I was sick to my stomach at our defending and we were sinking deeper and deeper into a hole of poor form. However we weren't going to lay down and for the next 10mins we proceeded to actually make Carroll earn his money, Vayrynen, Gasbarroni and Ruiz all brought good saves from him before Ruiz made way for Mourad and Hotchkiss came on for Sweeney. Neither had them had really impressed and the subs had a chance to make their pressence felt and push for a first team place more often. We kept on at them and finally, we got a goal and finally Vayrynen found time to take of his wifes slippers and score. Zokora made a clearing header which fell at Sivok's feet, he turned and dinked the ball forward which sent Vayrynen running into space, he took a touch and lifted the ball over the oncoming Carroll to level things up. The rest of the game saw us come close but not really threaten to take the lead. The game ended and another frustrating draw. Batty said afterwards it still wasn't good enough.

F/T: West Ham United 1-1 Leeds United

The week saw Billy Jones pick up an injury and threw more spanners and various other tools in the works for us. We were to face Blackburn and it was a huge game in terms of us getting a place in Europe. Both of us were up there and we were level on points. The Uefa cup places would be dealt out between us, Blackburn and Spurs. I reckon Newcastle have too much of a lead and will definatly have one, if not a place in the Champions League. Recber Rustu would be joing us in the summer after he rejected a new deal with Real Madrid to join us on a free and Batty also expressed an interest in Juan Carlos Valeron who had just requested transfer from Deportivo.

Leeds United Vs Blackburn Rovers, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Zaza, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Gasbarroni, Sivok, Walton ©, Osman, Ruiz, Mourad. (Subs) Sulivan, Nyatanga, Silva, Guarin, Di Canio.

Batty changed his formation and his starting side. Osman came in to start as did Walton who's been left out of the last couple of games. They kicked things off and they started much the better with Zaza being forced to save early on. Bellamy and Pederson we causing problems and we looked a little out of sorts when it came to the formation. After 20mins we finally forced a save from their keeper when Sivok won the ball in their half and spread it wide to Clarke. His first time cross was met by the head of Mourad but Friedel got down well before it was cleared. After that we began playing with alot more spirit and a hell of alot more desire. It looked to have paid off when Savage played the ball back, Ruiz intercepted it and knocked it to Mourad who got away from his man to chip the keeper brilliantly, but the flag was up and the goal was disallowed. Still, promising stuff from us and as half time came round we could, for the first time in a while, be proud of our first half performance.

The second half brought no changes, well except a change to the score. Clarke hoofed a ball forward towards Mourad, he nodded down and Ruiz got there before Webster before firing into the bottom corner. We had the lead, hopefuly this time round we could keep it and actually win the game. A few mins later it got better for us as Fray won a corner. Gasbarroni sent it in and Sivok's late run into the box went unchecked and he headed into the top corner to double our advantage. Didn't take long for us to find another. A goal kick from Friedel was nodded back by Fray, Matteo collected and knocked it back to the keeper who mis-controlled leaving Ruiz with the ball and an open net to score in with a vicious drive. Now his 7th goal of the season and he's looking like an excellent buy for us. Another few minutes went by before we had the another goal, we were flying and as the ball came into the area from Clarke, Ruiz won a pentaly after being felled by Matteo. Walton took the ball and smashed it low and hard down the middle to firmly cement our advantage and surely the points. Batty made a change after that with Osman coming off for Nyatanga with the young lad going in a left back, Clarke going to left mid and Gasbarroni going right. We'd just scored 3 goals in 10mins of play, but they weren't our last efforts of the match. Gasbarroni dispossed Matteo, knocked it to Walton who released Mourad. His effort was saved but the Ruiz tapped the rebound into the net for his hat trick. Fantastic display and firmly back on track i hope. Blackburn were looking down and out but we still managed to take some of the shine off with our defending. Pederson moved forward at speed, knocked it to Bellamy, Fray intercepted but somehow managed to slice his clearence backwards and into the goal. Weird goal and Batty didn't seem pleased with it despite it's strange nature however a minute later he did have a reason to be displeased as we began to let our performance slip. Pederson again skipped past Sivok, then Ferrari before feeding Gallagher who curled the ball home from the right side of the area. The gaffer was really having a go now, at one point stepping onto the pitch to have a go at one of the players and it seemed to work as we held on and got the win without futher incident. Great result but again the defence had some explaining to do. Ruiz was man of the match for his superb effort.

F/T: Leeds United 5-2 Blackburn Rovers

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 86

We now had another long break before our next game thanks to the Euro Qualifiers with England beating Denmark 4-2 at Parken. Rooney and Owen got the goal, Downing was sent off and there were three goals in the opening 10mins. Also England were recently drawn into group A for this summers Confederations Cup. The group is made up of Greece, the Solomon Islands and Rep. Congo. Group B held Brazil, Canada, Japan and Mexico and we had a good chance of winning it if we could repeat our world cup form and avoid injuries. In the Champions League it was a mixed night for our sides. Arsenal beat Brondby 2-1, Chelsea got a 1-0 win against Celtic, Liverpool lost 1-0 away to Juventus and Man Utd played out a 0-0 against Real Madrid at Old Trafford. Our sides still have a good chance of making up a all english semi final round. If they all get through we could see the trophy return home come May. Speaking of returns, Warner and Adu began full training and looked set to start against Portsmouth. The match was due to be played on Saturday but was put back due to a F.A. Cup replay and now we'll play on Wednesday instead.

At home we were gearing up for the coming arrival. The baby was due any day now, hopefuly it wouldn't be on a day Leeds play but as long as it's healthy i wouldn't care when it came. However i was secretly hoping for a boy but a girl would be good too. The babies room was finished and ready to go, the parents were already fussing and the missus...well she was quietly cursing me for getting her up the duff...in a nice way though. Fray came 3rd in the young player of the month award. He hasn't played badly but i'm sure Batty will be looking to bring in someone new at the end of the season. Gregan, Kelly, Soley and Sulivan will all leave with Di Canio also leaving football for good as he looked to retire from the game.

In the F.A. Cup semi final Chelsea will play Arsenal and Plymouth face Southampton. Batty was offered the Monaco job but turned it down straight away despite them offering him £25m to spend and a massive weekly wage.

Portsmouth Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Adu, Sivok, Walton, Gasbarroni, Ruiz, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Parker, Silva, Osman, Mourad.

Changes were made to the team which trashed Blackburn, Adu, Warner and Bennett all return with young Ben Parker on the bench. We won the coin toss and kicked things off on a windy night on the south coast. We had a couple of early chances, as did they but it was mainly a midfield kicking session with bookings being handed out left right and centre. No real action came from the first half although Portsmouth had the better possession.

The second half perked up almost straight away. Fray sent a long throw down the right for Gasbarroni who ran the entire half before sending the ball in, Warner's headed was tipped over well by the Pompy keeper. That bit of momentum found us the first goal. Clarke knocked a ball down to the by line, Warner got to it before tricking his way to some space and dinking it in to Ruiz who got in a header and sent it into the goal from the tightest of angles. Another one for the young lad and he is on fire of late, 9 goals for the season now and firmly established as the No. 2 striker at the club. The goal seemed to spur them on more than us as Bennett was forced to make two excellent saves, both from LuaLua efforts. Adu had been pretty quiet in his new role but it was a case of a sleeping giant as he sprinted onto Sivok's long looping pass. Once he controlled it he had time to look up, pick his pass and his low ball was met at the near post by Ruiz's foot to send it in at the near post. The goal brought a couple of changes for us, Parker would get 20mins of first team football, coming on for Adu while the unaffective Gasbarroni came on off for Osman on the right. Not long after we passed Portsmouth to pieces. Fray knocked it to Osman, he turned and centre'd it for Sivok who played a first time ball to Warner's feet, he dribbled across the edge of the box before flicking it into the path of Ruiz and he buried it into the bottom corner to give him another hat trick. Excellent goal and he looks like he could become a top class striker the way he's playing. Portsmouth got one back late on when Robert came in from the left and played it to Keene, he held off Ferrari before turning and shooting into the top corner from the edge of the area and i even had to admit it was a great goal. The last few mins saw Portsmouth look for more but we held strong and got the win. Great game, Ruiz was amazing, Sivok ran the midfield and Clarke put in his best performance yet. Ruiz got man of the match.

F/T: Portsmouth 1-3 Leeds United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 87

In the Champions league all but one of our sides made it through to the semi's and big suprise who the let down was. Liverpool beat Juventus 4-2 on Agg. Chelsea battered Celtic 4-0 over two games and Arsenal beat Brondby 4-2. Man Utd lost to Real Madrid 1-0 and went out, pathetic. Here's the tables,

Premiership Table, April 4th

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

3. Man Utd (32) (17) (6) (9) (54) (28) 57pts

4. Newcastle (32) (17) (5) (10) (55) (37) 56pts

5. Chelsea (29) (15) (10) (4) (47) (24) 55pts

6. Tottenham (32) (15) (9) (8) (42) (29) 54pts

7. Leeds Utd (32) (15) (8) (9) (57) (45) 53pts

Top Scorers

1. R. Van Nistelrooy, 27 goals

2. M. Owen, 23 goals

3. M. Warner, 23 goals

4. T. Henry, 22 goals

5. N. Ellington, 18 goals

The table made interesting reading and it also made perfectly clear that although it may be unlikely, we still had a chance of snatching that last Champions League place. Liverpool were now just 3 points clear at the top but still had a game in hand over Arsenal who were on 65pts from 32 games. Sivok and Ruiz would miss our next match and maybe more as they picked up knocks against Portsmouth, Zokora and Mourad look set to step in and deputise.

Leeds United Vs Southampton, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Adu, Zokora, Walton, Osman, Mourad, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Parker, Silva, Guarin, Healy.

The first 25mins of the match didn't yield much in the way of action. We had the better of the opening exchanges but nothing really clear cut was produced by either side. We cam closest through Warner after 8mins but he was forced wide before he could shoot and ended up wasting the chance. The only action that came after that was Prutton going off with injury and Adu coming close from a free kick just before half time. We'd dominated but not really made Niemi work in the Southampton goal

A tired looking Warner and Adu made way shortly into the second half. Healy came on as did young Ben Parker to fill Adu's boots on the left wing and he had a hand in the opening goal. Kruiswijk knocked a free kick short to him on the left, Parker turned quickly, sprinted past 2 players before sticking the ball in the mixer where Mourad headed downwards and Healy volleyed home into the top corner to give us a deserved lead. It was a little streched after that and the last 5mins brought one last change from Batty with Silva coming on for Osman on the right. Southampton went looking for the equaliser late on and it almost cost them as a long clearence caught their back line off guard, Mourad got onto it, carried it into the area and shot but Niemi's foot sent it wide of the mark. The was the last real action of the half and we took another 3 points. Tough game but we proved we can do the nitty gritty as well as the beautiful football. Ferrari was man of the match.

F/T: Leeds United 1-0 Southampton

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 88

Charlton Athletic Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Sweeney, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Mourad, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Parker, Silva, Adu, Healy.

The games were coming thick and fast and the players only had a couple of days to prepare for this one as everything begins to gear up for the big finale. We won the coin toss and got things going after the ref blew his whistle although it got started slowly we got the opener after around 20mins. We won a corner thanks to Mourad and Sweeney swept the ball into the area where Zokora rose highest and powered a header into the net to give us the lead and him his first goal for the club. Only took a few mins for Charlton to burst into life and as Murphy dribbled through the middle he found Bent with a good pass, Ferrari tackled and Douglas had a pop when the ball came his way making Bennett stretch to tip it over the bar. The half was coming to a close as the seconds ticked down but we still found time to increase our lead when Gasbarroni threw the ball in and found Warner at the byline. He skipped past both Denilson and Hreidarsson before centering the ball where Walton got above Douglas to head it home. We went in at the half and looked comfortable.

We started the second half coming close to a goal in the first minute before Charlton did score. A pass through the middle took a touch off of Zokora's boot and fell to Denilson who drilled one past a stunned looking Bennett to give them a life line. They had their tails up now and came close to snatching an equaliser when Denilson eased past Fray on the left before his cross was headed against the crossbar by Bent. With around half hour left Warner and Mouran came off for Healy and Adu to add a little more spark to the tired looking attack and it seemed to have work as Zokora came close after some good work from Adu and Healy forced a good save from Kiely. Charlton kept on plugging and came close as Murphy played the ball through and Walker caught our defence trying to play the offside trap. He moved in on goal and shot, Bennett got a touch and Fray got there in time to clear it off line. Moments later Ferrari gave away a free kick right on the edge of the area and El Kakouri's low powerful effort found it's way past the wall only for Bennett to produce another great save to keep us infront. A few tence minutes saw them and us come close to adding to the scoreline but the ref called an end to the game and we had our 4th win on the trot going into our crunch tie against Newcastle at Elland Road. Matteo Ferrari was again strong at the back and was given the man of the match award.

F/T: Charlton Athletic 1-2 Leeds United

The week was a quiet one for Leeds and me. My dad, brothers and I were all looking forward to our big match against Newcastle while my mum and the missus were doing last minute baby shopping. Harding and Sivok returned from injury with Harding expected to play some part against the Geordies while Sivok would need another week or so before he was fully fit to play. Batty went into this game by saying a win would earn the players a 3 day break to Spain. We had a big gap between this game and our next tie at home to Newcastle.

Leeds United Vs Newcastle United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva ©, Adu, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Mourad, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Harding, Fray, Guarin, Healy.

With the impending arrival i decided to stay at home with the mummy to be and watch the game on Sky. It was a rather warm Monday night and the ground was packed to capacity for this one. A win would make the last few games highly interesting while defeat would surely send us into the Uefa cup, which wasn't bad concidering we were expected to be fighting relegation this term. Owen and Luque kicked the game off and it was they who took the early initiative when Luque whipped a free kick in from the right and almost got lucky with it if hadn't been for the quick reflexes of Bennett. Next it was our turn to attack. Adu whipped in a free kick from the right, Warner headed goalwards and Harper tipped it away. Mourad kept it alive and Kruiswijk came out of nowhere to collect his pass and have good shot parryed out. After around half hour of slow boring football we turned it on when Mourad caught Carr lingering in possession. He played the ball forward for Warner who got there ahead of Taylor, faked once then drilled one low into the near corner to give us the lead and send the crowd absolutly wild. We almost had another straight after the restart. Adu took the ball from Dyer and played it to Mourad, he took his time and found Warner but this time Harper was equal to it and pushed it away before it was cleared but Newcastle weren't so lucky a couple of minutes later as Silva hoofed one forward. The ball seemed destined for Harpers hands but the bounce caught him flat footed, Mourad stole in and side footed it into the empty net. They weren't about the lay down and they proved that when Taylor made a run down the right before feeding it low into the box. Ameobi arrived and thrashed one low and again Bennett was there to save brilliantly. We had a few more chances but looked like we cemented the match a couple of mins before half time when Gasbarroni earnt a free kick. He sent it to the back post where Mourad rose and just directed it into the goal to put us firmly in the driving seat.

The second half started and Owen looked to take things into his owen (get it?) hands, after beating Zokora and Ferrari he screwed his shot wide just after the restart. With around half hour left Warner picked up a slight knock and Batty brought him off as a precaution, Healy replacing him up front. We came close through Zokora who's long range effort skimmed the cross bar before Batty made another change. Adu made way for Harding to make his return to first team action after a long injury lay up. Into the last quarter of an hour Bennett had to work and work well. Ameobi had a vicious 20 yard drive saved before Dyer let go with another from long range and again Bennett was equal to it, holding onto the ball also. The game was become stretched and frantic and needed someone to just put their foot on the ball and calm things down slightly. Mourad was having chance after chance and N'Zogbia was having a real show case battle with Zokora in the middle of the park. The final minutes brought no more action and as the final whistle went the crowd cheered like we'd won the World Cup... again. We were brilliant all over the pitch and it was a tough call on man of the match as Bennett was incredible in goal while Mourad was lively and lethal upfront. In the end Mourad got it but we played so well it could have got to anyone.

F/T: Leeds United 3-0 Newcastle United

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 89

Midweek saw the players disappear to Spain while in the first leg of the Champions League semi finals got underway. Arsenal played out an epic match with Real Madrid. They won 3-2 at home, Lauren missed a penalty, Carlos got sent off for Madrid and the second leg is looking like a very interesting encounter. The other semi wasn't to be ourdone though with Chelsea and Liverpool replaying their controversal 2005 Champions League semi once more. This one ended 2-2 with Drogba and Joe Cole netting for the blues while Morientes got a brace for the away side while Cisse was sent off late on. It sets up another epic encounter of the two in a two weeks time with Liverpool looking like favourites going into it.

However i missed both matches as my wife gave birth to a beautiful baby boy on the same night. My parents were there with me and they shared the joy, even me old dad shed a tear. We named him aptly Jack Murphy Daniels. Strange name but Murphy was my grandads name and we've always liked the name Jack. My brothers approved of the name (bloody booze hounds) as my missus slept i sat there with the boy watching the Champions League highlights, maybe one day he'd be playing in the comp for Leeds.

Plymouth Argyle beat Premiership Southampton in the F.A. Cup semi final while Arsenal just pipped Chelsea to the final meaning it was once again a tale of the big guns Vs the underdogs. Speaking of the big guns, Arsenal and Liverpool will play out the first ever all English Champions League final. Liverpool won by a single goal at New Anfield to beat Chelsea, Crouch geting it for them and Arsenal went to Madrid and came away with a 2-0 win. Campbell and Reyes sending them into the final for the first time in their history. It'll be a clash of Englands two top teams and Liverpool could find themselves doing the double should they win the league.

Leeds United Vs Liverpool, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Harding, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Silva ©, Adu, Sivok, Walton, Gasbarroni, Mourad, Warner. (Subs) Zaza, Clarke, Fray, Guarin, Healy.

I didn't go to this game either, deciding that i'd sit down with the kid and let him enjoy watching his first match on TV. Batty named a full strength squad (which i told the kid about in detail) and the team looked full confidence as they headed out onto the pitch fresh from their Spainish break. We went into this game as the form team in the league after winning our last five games on the bounce and as top scorers with a whopping 63 goals in 35 games. They kicked off and while we had the first real chance they set into a pattern of dominence with Bennett being called to make two good saves early on from Xabi Alonso and and Crouch. With half hour gone Liverpool got the ball in the back of the net. Kewell beat Silva before feeding the ball to Riise arriving late on the right, he drove first time at the near post and it flew in, however the flag also flew up for a foul with Croutch seeming to impede Bennett in getting to the ball. The rest of the half was played out without incident and both sides went in still looking good for the win.

The second half saw us really put pressure on Liverpool with Gasbarroni, Warner and Adu were all causing problems and finding gaps in the Liverpool defence to exploit. We kept up the pressure but got no closer to a goal, nor did they thankfuly and with 20mins left on the clock Mourad made way for Healy while Sivok jogged off to be replaced by Guarin. Sivok was limping a little as he came off which is a little worrying but Guarin would be looking to make his time on the pitch count. Then, in the last 15 seconds disaster struck as Peltier moved up the right wing with the ball, he got to the byline, centred it and Silva seemed to have pushed Crouch in trying to get to the ball and the ref pointed to the spot. Le Tallec stepped up and side footed it low and hard into the net, i would have been more ****ed off it the boy wasn't laying in my arms. The whistle went straight after kick off and we'd lost. Great way to finish the season at Elland Road and to finish my first game with the kid, cheeky scouse bastards.

F/T: Leeds United 0-1 Liverpool

[Matt_no_7]

Chapter 90

We'd next face the Champions League other finalists Arsenal on the Wednesday at Highbury and we'd be missing Harding who strained his wrist in a fall against Liverpool, with him out for over a week it means it brings to an end his season. We got some good news though as Walton and Ferrari both picked up awards for their fine form over the month with Batty coming second in the managers monthly award. Hopefuly that'd be boost enough to give us a win against Arsenal. Anything less than a win for us would end our hopes of an amazing return to Champions league football. We lay 5 points behind Man Utd with them having to play Chelsea away on the same night. It was looking like a really tall order for us but this is football and anything can happen.

Arsenal Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Adu, Vayrynen, Walton, Gasbarroni, Healy, Warner ©. (Subs) Zaza, Vaz Te, Silva, Zokora, Mourad.

Arsenal needed nothing but victory to keep their title hopes alive while we could settle for nothing less than a win to keep our slim Champions League chance open, though we still needed Chelsea to beat Man Utd in order to do it. Arsenal were without Henry which gave us a big boost going into the game. We've been here before and won on a couple of occasions and we've already beaten Arsenal once this season so it is possible. The game started in spectacular fasion for us when Arsenal, deep in our half lost the ball. Ferrari had time to launch a long pass down the right for Warner who had got away from the last man and stayed onside and as he closed in on goal Healy presented the option at the back post, Warner passed and the ball was in the back of the net soon after to give us the lead and send the travelling fans into raptures. The game died down slightly for a while before Arsenal made it interesting again, Fabregas found space in the middle and sent in a fantastic shot which Bennett pushed away. Clarke cleared and it again found Warner who brought it down and drove down the middle unchecked but his low shot was sent wide by the chest of Almunia. We really started to get under Arsenal's skin. They couldn't cope with Warner's movement at all and he was getting free to cause havoc for them. We had 2 great chances to double the lead, Warner with the first and Gasbarroni with the second but both were saved by the now overworked Almunia just before the half.

We didn't let our performance drop in the second half and Healy came close to scoring early on when he got a brilliant header to Gasbarroni's inch perfect cross but again Almunia saved. We pressued them, made them look poor for over half hour and coming into the last 10mins we came close once more but a long clearence found Reyes in space, he moved in on goal and chipped the oncoming keeper to level the scores. A really really cruel blow for us and one we didn't deserve at all but we got lazy and got punished. Mourad came on for Healy after that to add a bit of height to our attack and it worked!! Bennett collected a tame cross before hoofing it upfield. Mourad beat Upson in the air and nodded it left onto Adu's run, he advanced, cut inside his man and crossed to the back post where Warner powered a headed back across the keeper and into the net with just seconds left in the game. The whistle went straight after and we celebrated victory and as the scores came over the tanoy they cheered further as Chelsea had beaten Man Utd and we now lay just 2 points behind them going into the final game of the season. And as the other result came in Chelsea discovered that they're win was not in vain as Liverpool had lost to West Brom meaning if they won their remaining games, they'd clinch the title by a point. Arsenal's challenge has ended and once again a Leeds team with little hope has come to the Gunners back yard and went away with the win. Adu was a constant threat and that got him man of the match.

F/T: Arsenal 1-2 Leeds United

The friday night saw Chelsea lose 1-0 at home to Portsmouth to put a major, if not killer dent in their title bid. They still have a game in hand over Liverpool but lay 5 points behind them meaning Liverpool only have to draw to be crowned Champions. We were gearing up also. We'd be traveling to already relegated Birmingham City hoping for a win while keeping one eye on how things were going on at Old Trafford where Man Utd face Crystal Palace.

Birmingham City Vs Leeds United, Premiership: (Starting 11: 4-4-2) Bennett, Clarke, Kruiswijk, Ferrari, Fray, Adu, Zokora, Walton, Gasbarroni, Mourad, Warner ©. (Subs) Stack, Vaz Te, Silva, Guarin, Healy.

Here it was, our final game of the season and our most important. We needed nothing less than victory and alot of good fortune else where to secure our place in next seasons Champions League. We had our place in Europe for next term but playing Champions League football would be the icing on the cake. The early exchanges saw us come close twice through Warner and Mourad but it wasn't a fantastic start but we had plenty of time to find the goal we needed and on 20mins we got it. Gasbarroni headed on Clapham's throw in, Mourad collected and instantly released a path into the space ahead of Warner, he got to it, set himself and curled one under the keeper and into the goal at the near post. After that we kept on at them, not letting them settle at all and we soon found another. Bennett played a free kick forward to Adu who controled and turned before moving down the left wing. Mourad collected his pass at the byline and crossed for Warner to head it in and double the lead. He came close not long after as did Birmingam, Forsell getting in a brave header which Bennett got a good hand to. Half time came round and Palace were drawing 1-1 with Man Utd.

We came out for the second half, at least i think we did as straight from the restart a cheeky free kick found Tebily unmarked at the back post and he skipped past Bennett before sliding it home. The game meant nothing to them really and thats what was worrying. Gladly however my worry's didn't last for long as Mourad and Adu exchanged passes up the left wing. Mourad played it to Zokora who faked a shot and played it to Warner who turned and shot with venom into the top corner from 12 yards to complete his hat-trick. Not long after Birmingham looked to get back into the game. Forsell nicked the ball from Fray and knocked it back to the edge of the area leaving Boyd free to shoot but again Bennett made a brilliant save to keep our two goal cushion in tact. The corner from them was wasted and after it was cleared Adu came off to rapturous applause to be replaced by Vaz Te on the left wing. We had a few more chances after that point and into the final 5mins Warner got his 4th of the match when Walton found Mourad in space, he turned and moved towards goal before being tackled and the loose ball was collected by Warner and rammed home from the edge of the area. Now it was just a waiting and hoping game for us, no one was really paying attention to the match we were actually playing and found more interest in events going on at Old Trafford. The dying seconds saw Matt Derbyshire slip away from Kruiswijk and control the ball before firing it low into the back of the net but the linesman ruled it out for offside and Birmingham's season ended in woeful fashion as the whistle went and the players waited for the results to come in over the announcment system. As the scores were read out we were disappointed to find that Palace and Man Utd had drew and our dream had come to an end and that last minute penalty against Liverpool was the killer blow. If that game had ended in a draw, we'd be going into the Champions League next season but thats life. Warner was man of the match for his brilliant performance.

F/T: Birmingham City 1-4 Leeds United

The results also spelt out the end of the title race as Liverpool beat Blackburn 2-1, but unlike in '95 Liverpool lifted the crown after Sunderland beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge 1-0. Poor season for the blues and it seems to be getting better for the scouser's who lift their first league title since 1990. After the final game Matt Warner was given the Players Player of the Season award for his amazing contribution, Walton picked up Young Player of the Year and Warner finished 2nd in the top scorers charts behind Ruud Van Nistelrooy. Warner got 29 goals in 34 league games while Van Nistelrooy netted an amazing 34 goals for the season.

Bayern Munich beat Dortmund in the Uefa Cup final after extra time and penalties in an all German final in Athens. Arsenal made up for their Premiership short comings by beating Plymouth 3-1 in the F.A. Cup final. Plymouth took the lead after 12mins through Wotton but a goal Chris Warner and a Reyes brace rounded things off after Andy Todd was sent off with 10mins left. Chelsea Registered another huge bid, this time of £55m for Matt Warner with Bates again telling them where to go with it. F.A. Cup winners Arsenal beat Champions Liverpool 2-0 in the Champions League final. Both goals came fro Henry in the second half and gives Arsenal their first ever European cup. Here's a run down of where the trophys went this season,

Champions League: Arsenal

Uefa Cup: Bayern Munich

Premiership: Liverpool

F.A. Cup: Arsenal

League Cup: Chelsea

Relegated: Birmingham, Sunderland, Southampton.

Championship Winners and Promoted Teams: Luton ©, Wigan, Gillingham (Play Off)

La Liga: Barcelona

Serie A: Juventus

Scottish Premier: Rangers

Portuguese Premier: Porto

German First Division: Dortmund

Dutch Premier: Feynoord

French First League: Bordeaux

Premiership Table, End Of Season

(Pld) (W) (D) (L) (F) (A) (Pts)

1. Liverpool (38) (22) (13) (3) (62) (27) 79pts

2. Chelsea (38) (21) (11) (6) (57) (30) 74pts

3. Arsenal (38) (20) (12) (6) (63) (33) 72pts

4. Man Utd (38) (20) (8) (10) (62) (32) 68pts

5. Leeds Utd (38) (20) (8) (10) (69) (49) 68pts

6. Newcastle (38) (20) (7) (11) (65) (43) 67pts

Top Scorers

1. R. Van Nistelrooy, 34 goals

2. M. Warner, 29 goals

3. M. Owen, 28 goals

4. T. Henry, 24 goals

5. N. Ellington, 23 goals