Spurs. Marching on together. Whoop.
Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 11:13AM Now that's more like it. Decent cup tie, plenty of chances created. Never really in doubt was it? There was no ominous 'here we go agains' even when Leeds pegged us back. You just felt that the tempo and effort from our lads was always going to cause the home side problems. It took two games, but Premier quality won through in the end.
Bentley continued his sparkling good form. Not keen on the hobo face scruff and although he does look ill there's no doubt that his form is currently sick (see what I did there? honestly, someone should pay me to blog). As long as he continues to keep his feet on the ground and not develop another vanity daze that always seems to eat away at any hope of prolonged consistency. Start to worry the moment he starts to highlight his hair. I'm liking the fact that he's continuing to take the chance he's been presented with. Good work fella. We all know he'll lose his place when Azza is back. But it's good to have competition. Not that it's competition in the strictest sense. Lennon is untouchable.
Defoe re-discovering his goal scoring touch was also a joy. Loved how he added spin on his first (he meant it) and his touch to score the second from an unplayable (from a defensive point of view) Bentley cross was equally impressive. His third was no doubt harsh on plucky Leeds and their fans but to be fair, it was tinged with 'back in your box' qualities that were much required, if anything to end the constant pro-giant killing requirements that ITV are utterly utterly obsessed with. Thought Crouch did a decent enough job in aiding JD. Missed a sitter (of sorts). It's not exactly the most exhilarating partnership with regards to subtle layers of inventiveness, but it's productive.
Apart from an exceptional 10 minute spell from Leeds at the end of the first half (having gone 1-0 up), it was comfortable. Special mention to that reaction though. They had a right old ding dong go at us and even though the goal was debatable - it was probably deserved for the sheer effort leading up to it. Only positive from conceding was that it left no room for further complacency come the second half.
On the subject of the goal, it's debatable depending on how you wish to interpret the phase of play that led to the equaliser. Leeds players all offside, but alas not when the ball reaches Becchio. He's now onside, even though there was arguable interference seconds earlier. Confused? I flipping hope so. I'm still trying to figure out how Defoe's goal at Anfield never stood.
Which we dominated in both chances and possession where the difference in quality was more than evident by the final whistle. Leeds didn't do enough. Our lot did everything right. Chuffed that the players gave the occasion the focus and determination it needed. It's the FA Cup, it should matter. Year might not end in 1. There's still a 1 in there. Bolton away next, more of the same please.
Positives: Bale (see what confidence can do for you?) and Bentley (2 assists and a couple of moments where I'm certain I witnessed him going past a player) were impressive, Defoe clinical. ITV duly gutted. Did love how when we took the lead, the second thing out of the commentators mouth was about whether Leeds could fight back. Dry them mate.
Goodbye Leeds. We might never meet again (hopefully).
Bread and butter next with Villa at the Lane, which is just as important for altogether different reasons. More so in the eyes of many. It's another cup game. In the league. Lose this and the feeling of deflation will no doubt sting. Win it, and there's an opportunity to use it as a springboard.
Onwards.
COYS.
Reader Comments (142)
Beckford. Beckford who?. Swat! take that you pesky wasp! Job done.
It was offside. Not that it matters because we are bound to score a similar type of goal at some point this season and not moan about it.
Who was the commentator? I forget.
..so ends ITV's 'love in' with Leeds (Marching All Together) Utd, noW BACK TO BUSINESS AS USUAL.. Sky's obsession/love affair with the 'Big Three' that's so we are not bracketed in this category.
COYS
Shouldn't that be ITV?
Bale and Bentley looked good but Defoe is going to need to be more clinical against Villa.
If Eidur is available I think we shall see him for 20 minutes on Saturday - a chance to see how he might work out and who he might partner.
Crouch was outstanding last night - barely missed a header all game.
Good stuff from Harry and Les and the lads. Now go and beat Villa !
COYS indeed. MASSIVE game Saturday, as big if not bigger than Anfield. Win and we're still in with the faintest of chances of 4th - if Citeh implode. Lose and it's an FA Cup win and Europa League 2011 at best.
Draw it is then.
I was surprised that we won and gave a generally good performance. In addition to Bentley and Bale I thought Krankjar was outstanding and even Jenas made some good contributions....perhaps Div 1 is his true level.
I thought Hudd was using stealth technology to stay hidden but it failed occasionally and he re-appeared occasionally. Some of our defending in the first half was woeful and a team like Villa would have made more of the opportunities presented, but hey, winning any game with Jenas and Hudd as CM's has got to be a step in the right direction.
Down to earth on Saturday methinks.
What a tit, gettign a bit carried away with winning a game against third tier opposition aren't we ?
How many chances does golden boots Defoe need against a make shift thrid tier defence ?
As for hoping not to see Leeds again ever well I think that is definitely going to haunt you one day. Totally understandable though considering your team and 'star' striker can only shine against significantly lower opposition (Wigan anyone ?) and Leeds would be a proper force when they return to the Prem.
So "Goodbye Leeds,we may never play you again"
Is that what you and your spice boys 'really really' want?
You would rather be playing Wigan, Bolton, Hull, Burnley et all?
Don't think so somehow... We will be back and competing on level terms sooner than you might think sunshine..
I'd say Defoe would be more deserving of the "clinical" accolade you award him if he'd finished the other half a dozen chances that graced his little boots.
Second half Defoe performance was much better than the first, and obviously Sir Les' jibe got him going. But I think the third goal flattered his overall contribution which I think would be best described as "wasteful at times, but still capable".
Fair retort?
Jim Beglin was a constant source of annoyance for me last night. He was rooting for Leeds so much it was embarrassing. Bentley gets whacked in the face and 'he made a lot of it', he gets harshly cautioned and it was 'late and dangerous', one of their thugs gets done be Bentley and he crashes through him and it's 'nothing sinister and a bit harsh to get a yellow', and Becchio's goal was rightly given and not even debatable. Jog on Jim you two bob twat!
I just loved the policing last night, they kept us back for 40 minutes after the game, only to let us out, then escort us 100 yards down the street and at 150 yards was were the leeds scum were waiting to throw bottles and shit at us. Fucking retards. Both leeds fans and the police! Rather than keeping us in there for 40 minutes and wait for them to get bored, they should have been looking for these groups and moving them on! Never mind, i'm still alive.
Well played to Huddlestone, Dawson, Bale and Bentley in particular last night, they were our best players by a country mile. Although Defoe didn't do too badly after the restart. ;-p
Why did we not sell jenus to inter btw? I can't stand to watch that guy play, its far too frustrating!
Chaps (of the Leeds ilk). It was simply a touch of ribbing, aimed at some Leeds fans I know. Don't take it to heart. You're a proper football club with proper history. Even if the vast majority of your fans are mentalists.
So, removing the jest, can't wait for you to get promoted back into the Prem, so we can dick all over you again.
;) <-- safety wink
Oh and Gomes as always looked sexy.......love of my life
Decent performance but we should have been out of sight on the half hour. This lack of a clinical side up front is perhaps what's earning us all these draws.
Jenas was anonymous. I liked Hudd. He was dependable, solid, passed well, didn't give the ball away, a player you could trust. I'd trust him at home with the missus. Unlike John Terry.
Some dodgy defending at times, Bale occasionally hesitant but got better as time went on. Good performance from Bentley, but we're talking League One opposition. Glad Palacios and Modric got a rest for Saturday. Villa should be a top match.
Thought we were absolutely top class last night, from 1 to 11. Jenas and Huddlestone make a decent fist of it in midfield, and spent a lot of energy closing players down, as did the rest of the team - even Defoe tracked back to help out on one occasion. And we showed real attacking intent. Niko had a terrific game.
Supaleeds has a point though. Can't we be a little more magnanimous in victory?
Dirty team. Filthy team.
So "Goodbye Leeds,we may never play you again"
Is that what you and your spice boys 'really really' want?
You would rather be playing Wigan, Bolton, Hull, Burnley et all?
Don't think so somehow... We will be back and competing on level terms sooner than you might think sunshine..
Feb 4, 2010 at 11:40 AM | supaleeds
LOL
Spice boys? Is that we are to you now you live in the lower leagues? Wasn't long ago you were jam packed with spice boys. Glory days with tropical fish and Seth Johnson. I can't wait for your return.
Oh, I see Spooky beat me to it ;-)
Bentley was the most impressive player for me last night. Hard work ethic (attack & defence) and some great touches on the ball. I hope he'll continue to impress before Lennon comes back. Bye bye Leeds!
COYS!!!
"You would rather be playing Wigan, Bolton, Hull, Burnley et all?"
No. But better them than having to face your Neanderthal supporters twice a year.
johnnycheshunt you are a proper retard pal and hopefully not a true refelct of the intellect of your fans.
I don't like dirty leeds and I don't like 99% of their fanbase..............................
HOWEVER,
Their fans' noise and raucous passion and Elland Road as a stadium deserves Premier League football. Leeds and their fans put clubs like Wigan and Blackburn to shame with their passionate supporting of their team last night.
I've not been so entertained by a cup tie since we beat the Scum 5-1 a few years ago.
The team performed well last night, special mention to Bale and Bentley, those 2 have really stepped up to the plate whilst BAE & Lennon have been injured.
Extremely pleased for Bentley, keep up the good work cut out the skip kicking and carry on playing your football!
As for JD's first.......................... HE DEFINITELY MEANT IT! If it had been Eduardo ITV would have been creaming their frilly knickers.
BRING ON THE VILLA!
Leeds fans still on a buzz a see because they got a taste of the big time again. Well done for beating United. Good effort against us. Now get back to climbing up the leagues again. Rather you lot than Newcastle.
Not very subtle, our play....
Missed Modders and Wilson.
Bale and Bently, it's like having signed two new players in the transfer window!
Villa will be harder, much!!!
Bale was like a man possessed int he last 20 mins. Totally owned it. Bentley showed bags of heart and no small amount of skill. Really happy for him. His hair looked lovely and slick, perfectly styled. Didn't look like a cowpat on a tramps head. Defoe worked really hard, ran the channels, looked up for it, did the ugly stuff. If he could do that every week we would be in business. CBs good - for gods sake, can we just have them 2 as the 1st choice pairing?? Woddy can fight for his place if and when he comes back. King, sorry, you're brilliant, but these 2 guys arent bad. Personally i would have king and bassong as 1st choice, but if Dawson is gonna be captain, then fuck it, put him and bassong in every game. fuck it!!
Harry's half time team talk worked abit. What did he say?? think he said 'fucking show them...SHOW THEM EVERYTHING!!!" And boy did they. 2nd half we were magnificent. i almost wept with pride at the skill and heart on display.
When BAE is fit again, would like to see him and bale combined on the left. Bale was fucking on it last night, 2nd half he was all over them. Corluka was superb too. Huddlestone perfomed with a lot of maturity, babysat JJ fairly well. As fo JJ himself, not bad. but not good either. Abotu as good as can be expected though. Ran a lot (which is probably why, despite the gulf in their progress/output, many people compare him to hudd - JJ runs a lot, so its more obvious hes doing something). Gomes was great, soon he will get the praise he deserves for his form this season.
Reaper mate, what will Arse be wiining this year??? Oh yeah, same as last year....fuck all.
We lacked that special edge Modric gives us , but its good to see the rest can pull it together when needed. Have to have both back for the Villa game and we'll have to take our chances early on. Villa and Leeds are not comparable. Should be a good un.
We will meet again, that i can guarantee you, your fans are shocking, sadly your team isnt, good play from your lads last night, if you dont make top four ill be very suprised. good luck, MOT
Bentley has suspiciously found form when Lennon is out for some time. Perhaps when Lennon comes back Bentley will lose it again. It does appear that he doesn't have fight in him to push Lennon for a starting place. The Leeds goal was offside in my eyes - this 'phase of play' rubbish shouldn't apply when the players are in the box. All players in the box are interfering - or at least the ball has to come back out of the box before there is another phase of play.
Oh and I presume because soemone was calling you names when you left the ground that makes everything so so bad, what about Spurs v West Ham ? Hardly a kids party that one is it ? Every team has it's percentage of retards even the perennial underachievers that are Spurs.
Poor defence to cite some minor incidents and tar everyone with the same brush, still for those of you with one brain cell it does deflect the fact you struggled past 3rd tier opposition.
Jay - really? I wasn't there, thought our fans made plenty of noise, went a bit quiet with the home fans in the second half. Did think your support at the Lane was superb. Makes for a better atmosphere.
I see we've got ourselves a Bentley love in going on too.
DB's facial hair couldn't give a monkey's pal as I don't support Arsenal, I do acknowledge though that they are the best team in North London, fair ?
Struggled past 3rd tier opposition? Doesn't the magic of the cup count now?
HHmmm, shall I watch Hartlepool or Villa on Saturday? Thought so. Reaper as in grim? Best wishes and kisses.
Leeds.
Go home and get your fucking shine box.
good game to watch last night, the most impressive part of the performance was the closing down, we did not give them a second on the ball. I know we are raving about Bale at the moment but the boy needs to not give the attacker so much space they got 80% of their crosses in against him and Ashley Young will have field day, make sure your first tackle is hard and he knows you mean business Bale. good win, good battling performance and all we need now is for Sir Les to bollock JD before the game so he can take the match ball home with him again this weekend!!COYS
Bale was attempting stuff that I wouldn't believe was possible near the end. It was coming off too. He really skins full backs EASILY. I actually feel that the fact that both he and Bentley have found form at same time is not a coincidence. I think that Bale got his opportunity and is taking it. Bentley on the other hand is seeing what Bale is doing and putting him to shame. Bentley has reacted and is now taking on defenders, cutting inside, crossing better, taking shots and showing determination.
Hey Hoopspur if I was you I would watch Villa they are a decent side....
We have plenty of idiot supporters too. Wannabe hooligans and the types that have no issue with losing a tooth if they get a kick out of it. Literally. I doubt the Leeds fans that people are stereotyping are the same who will log onto a pc and browse boards and blogs.
Great cup tie, over two games. Should have won it first time round, Leeds did well to keep themselves in it and steal a replay. But no argument about last night. Showed the class we should have first time round.
See you boys in 3 years.
Bolton will knock us out. And this will all be just a memory.
Folkstone yid - Don't Villa play Downing on right and Young on the left? Which would mean that Bale faces Downing. However, since (I think) Young is right footed and Downing is left footed, they could actually switch during game. The best thing about last night was resting Wilson, Ledley and Luka. We didn't even bring any subs on. Wilson will really be needed - also King - if the swelling goes down.
So basically, Leeds make a fight out of it and we've got their fans telling us we should have beaten them easily? Either you made a fight out of it or you're shit. Make your minds up.
General Brickhouse what's a 'Fucking Shine Box' , is that COCKney rhyming slang?
Defoe, clinical? I hope he never operates on me then. I'd be dead before before the theatre sister told him that the scalpel he was using was a plastic fork from the canteen.
I did notice that me sending him old classic tapes of Greavsie rounding the keeper, sometimes twice, to score has paid off. Not very often that he does that and it gives him another instrument in his operating tool kit.(Two can play at the 'see what I did there' schtick)
Once again we should have been 'out of sight' in the first 20mins. but we wern't phased by it and played well in the second half.
Can I mention Jenas turn in midfield to supply Bentley who set up Defoe for the second. What would we do without that boy.
And don't say ';better'
Can't agree with those who thought Kranjcar was great. He was poor, his form has definately dipped in the last couple of weeks. Too many things he tried didn't come off and he lost the ball a lot. Also don't agree with Defoe criticism really. He was hitting the target and didn't lose heart. Fucking Ankegren was annoying. All Defoe needs to do is start placing the ball more!! Pass it into the net!! Don't be so arrogant as to think you don't need coaching, because you do...listen to what the coaches are inevitably telling you...pass the ball into the net! Take a leaf from Henry's book. But yeah, all strikers miss chances, he was at leat still hitting hte target and did score 2 good strikers goals. For the 1st one, to borrow a phrase from Big Ron, 'He's nominated that'! He can be a cocky, lazy littel sod sometimes but last night I was happy with him. He was 'up for it' when sometimes he looks like hes going through the motions....
'Defoe, clinical?'
Spooky is probably taking the piss. Defoe does have the Andy Coles about him.
Defoe lacks the intelligence to place shots. He lashes too often. Although, meant or not, his first was expertly taken. Can't believe we are finding fault with the guy, isn't he on 19/20 goals already this season?
JD was clinical. If you care to imagine he only had three goal scoring opportunities.
Seems silly to criticise a players finishing after he has just scored a hat-trick, but Defoes shooting was pretty poor, as Harry said, he should have had at least 6. Bale didn't impress me at all, no threat from Leeds down our left but he still failed to do anything offensively which is is supposed to be good at, also, any danger iof him making a tackle, whimps out of every challenge. Dawson again shackey, especially after we scored which seems to make us think we need to sink deep into our area and panic. All in all though, a good performance against a team that is 2 div's below us, JJ did well for once and Bentley was good (all be it against a poor right midfielder playing left back). Think we should have real ambition to win this cup, add some decent finishing to our commitment last night and we are more than capable of beating anyone. Now lets kick on and do Villa this weekend!
P.S. Thought Becchio was very good, glad to see him come off as he was much more of a threat than Beckford