Championship Leeds Deliver Giant Killing?

steemsports (80)in #steemsports • 7 years ago

Leeds players celebrating

SteemSports Presenter: @mojorisin

SteemSports Editor: @ldauch

Championship side Leeds United knocked Premier League Burnely out 5-3 on penalties after an entertaining 2-2 draw at Turf Moor.

To call this a giant killing is stretching it somewhat. Leeds, although they've been away from English football's holy grail for the best part of the millenium, are still regarded as one of the giants of English football. So, a win at Premier League Burnley is no shock, especially after Leeds' blistering start to the Championship season.

After an edgy goalless first half, it was Leeds who took the lead when Sacko fired in Hernandez's pass with a close range effort in the 80th minute. Since coming on as a substitute, Hernandez really upped Leeds' ante and almost put the away side 2 up but his but his effort floated just over the crossbar.

The Clarets then picked up their lagging tails and started applying the pressure. Some good movement saw them split Leeds' defence and a questionable foul on Kevin Long resulted in Burnley getting the first of many penalties.

Burnley's record signing, Chris Wood, fired in from the spot. It was sweet justice from the former Leeds favourite, who was the target of much of the away following's banter.

Chris Wood silencing the Leeds faithful with his penalty equaliser

However, with extra time looming, a Hernandez penalty seemed to be enough to send Leeds through.

Not to be outdone, the home side had the last word of normal time. A sublime free kick from Irish international, Robbie Brady sent the home crowd into raptures and silenced the away contingent.

Extra time was an edgy affair with both sides coming close. The two sides were clearly tiring, and chances were few and far between, but Hernandez, who had made a massive impact since coming on late in the second half, missed a guilt edged chance to send Leeds through.

The former Swansea man made no mistake in the penalty shoot-out, however.

Hernandez stroked his penalty into the bottom corner to make it 2-2 on penalties. James Tarkowski missed Burnley's crucial fourth penalty. A fine save from Lonergan gave Leeds the advantage.

Leeds players charge towards penalty hero Stuart Dallas

It was wrapped up when Stuart Dallas fired in to make it 5-3 to Leeds and ensure the away fans had a pleasant short ride home across the Pennines.

It was deserved win for the fallen giants. And while sitting at the summit of the Championship, and good feeling now hovering around Elland Road, it might not be too long before they reclaim their place among football's elite.