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Louth Branch Magazine articles
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This is
Archive - August - September 07Sat Sept 29th. Gillingham 1-1 Leeds United. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Marques, Heath, Clapham (Huntington 58), Prutton, Douglas, Hughes (Westlake 58), Carole (Weston 74), Beckford, Kandol. Friday Sept 28th. Why Gills chairman voted for 15 point deduction. Gillingham chairman Paul Scally today defended his decision to back Leeds United's 15-point penalty. Scally, whose club will welcome United to Kent for a League One game tomorrow, insisted he stood by his vote in favour of their deduction after the Football Association refused to order an independent review of the sanction. Friday Sept 28th. FA reject Leeds appeal. Leeds chairman Ken Bates was taking legal advice last night after the Football Association refused to enter the fight against the club's 15-point deduction. Bates wanted the FA to recommend an independent review of the Football League sanction which was imposed when the club broke rules on exiting administration this summer.But the FA insist the Football League have acted in accordance with their own rules and so have rejected his plea. Last night, United's chief executive Shaun Harvey said: "We are amazed that the Football Association do not feel it is appropriate to intervene in a matter which we believe is fundamentally wrong, and sets a dangerous precedent for the future. "We will fully reflect on this surprising decision and are taking the advice of our legal team." On-loan defender Jamie Clapham, meanwhile, has agreed to extend his stay at Elland Road for another two months. Tues Sept 25th. The Louth Branch refutes the article and much of the inaccurate "facts" and quotes in the recent Sunday Star story regarding "Marching on together". This was in effect a non-story with a journalist trying to allege that illegal organisations had hijacked "Marching on together" when in effect it was a small band in an orange parade playing it as background music. So what ! Stick to the football Mr McDonald and don't try and look for ghosts which aren't there. Tues Sept 26th. Leeds United are waiting to discover whether the battle to overturn their 15-point penalty has won the support of the Football Association. United's demand for a review of their Football League sanction was discussed at an FA board meeting in London yesterday after Leeds appealed to the Association for help in fighting the punishment. The 15-point deduction was one of several items on the FA's agenda and United are expected to learn later this week whether the FA will recommend an independent assessment of the League's sanction. Leeds were originally penalised by the Football League on August 3 after exiting administration without a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA). Millwall have handed a trial to former Leeds United midfielder Gylfi Einarsson in the hope of solving their goal scoring crisis. I wish them luck with Gylfi ! They'll need it. More sour grapes from Roberto Martinez, the Swansea City boss : "They are happy to scrap for every result and the fans don't mind that because they feel they have been harshly treated by the Football League. There's nothing wrong with that, but I think any other big clubs with big expectations would find it hard to play that way."
Friday Sept 21st. Swansea City manager, Roberto Martinez (
Weds 19th of Sept. 2007. Leeds United assistant manager Gus Poyet has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association after he openly criticised referee Andy D'Urso. Poyet suggested D'Urso held a vendetta against him and Leeds boss Dennis Wise going back to their playing days. Poyet said at the time: "Andy D'Urso is not good enough for us and I don't want to see him at a Leeds match again." The comments came after Leeds' second round Carling Cup defeat to Portsmouth. Poyet has until October 4 to appeal. Leeds lost the tie at Fratton Park 3-0 and Poyet, who was sent off by D'Urso during his playing career, added: "He can't forget things he's done to us in the past. It's sad and has happened again since we've been in management. He keeps laughing during games and doesn't make any decisions. If there is something complicated in the box he never gives it. We had a bet with the fourth official who would get the first yellow card and of course it was us. It is too much. It is personal. He has sent me off before and that's not hard but when it is against the team it is not right. Sat Sept 15th. Six points off Play-Offs. After Leeds fa Friday Sept 14th. Bristol Rovers 0-2 Leeds United. Leeds United: Ankergren, Richardson, (Huntington 90) Heath, Marques, Hughes, Prutton, Douglas, Clapham, Carole,(westlake 69) Beckford, Kandol. Subs - Lucas, Flo and Howson. 11,883 (1195 Leeds). Bristol Rovers Gus Poyet, Leeds' assistant manager, said: Sept 13th. Chris Moyles - Absolutely brilliant ! BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show host Chris Moyles has made a great tribute song for Leeds United .Log ontohttp://media.putfile.com/Moyles-15-points/ for the brilliant rendition of Chris Moyles (to Enrique Inglesias - Hero tune). You can also watch it on You-Tube. Here goes : We were docked 15 points from the start We have got to zero baby We have got to zero baby We have got to zero baby "They've done it five on the spin, three points Play out !!!!!! Sept 12th. Kandol and Beckford about to sign ? Leeds United manager Dennis Sept 11th. Fredddy to invest ? Freddy Shepperd former head honcho at Newcastle were seen having dinner in Newcastle. There is no doubt that Bates will leave the helm after he gets his pound of flesh post June 30th 2008, and what better way than help setting up his old mate .Bates said: "This is inspired speculation because Freddy and I had lunch last week in Newcastle. "He is not about to swoop in a 'sensational deal' for Leeds and I am not about to sell it either."Freddy is a good friend of mine and has been for years. I went up to see him, and we finished up having lunch."Inevitably the subject of football came out, and he is still a bit sore about what happened at Newcastle. "He would like to get back in and I would like an investor, so the two fit in."We had lunch and agreed to keep in touch, and that's it. He hasn't made a sensational swoop and talks are not now at an advanced stage."It is early discussions that's all, and Leeds United is not for sale," he stressed.It was unlikely that an outright sale would have been on the agenda anyway due to a clause in the deal that brought United out of administration last month. Under the terms of the sale to Bates, a large portion of the funds received through a takeover would have to be paid to the club's unsecured creditors and it is understood this remains the case until next summer. There is little doubt that a feel-good factor has returned to Elland Road and Bates added: "The hard work has now been done, all of the rubbish is out of the way, and the club is back on track. "The real league table shows we are two points clear at the top, or will be when we get our 15 points back. "The club is in profit, the gates are back and we have averages higher than Middlesbrough, Wigan, Reading and Fulham. "The ground is slowly being improved and the team is strong. Why would I want to sell?"After two years of hard work and three months of absolute hell, we can talk about football. "Freddy is a wise old man although he's younger than me he is experienced and he would be an ideal partner, but it is gossip. I am here for the long haul." Sept 11th. Who is David Lucas our new signing ?
Sat Aug 8th. Leeds 2-0 Hartlepool. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Marques, Heath, Clapham, Prutton, Hughes, Howson (Huntington 90), Carole (Westlake 83), Beckford, Kandol. Subs Not Used: Bayly, Parker, Ameobi. Booked: Howson. Goals: Kandol 20, Beckford 50. Att: 26,877.
Weds Sept 5th. Speculation continued that Leeds would rekindle their interest in Tranmere's Steve Davies when the transfer window reopens in January. Leeds offered �400,000 late on Friday night but the Wirral side didn't budge despite the player refusing to sign a contract extension. Macclesfield paid tribute to "the excellent Leeds supporters" after the recent CC tie and Paul Huntington was "surprised how quick it all happened "on hearing of Leeds interest last Friday. "This is also a massive club that is going places and I want to be part of it". That's what we like to hear. Also, Paul Furlong pipped Jermaine Beckford to the player of the month award for the third tier. Tues Sept 4th. Leeds born Jane Tomlinson passed away and there will be a minutes applause to celebrate her life at before the Hartlepool match. To those who don't know Jane was a remarkable lady who was diagnosed with cancer and only months to live back in 2000 but went on to dedicate her life to raising money for charity, going on to complete a number of fundraising challenges, including the Great North Run, London Marathon and the Ironman UK Triathlon. She raised over �1.5M for charities during those seven years. Signing hits snag. Leeds United are fighting to secure international clearance for new signing Filipe Da Costa after FIFA stepped into a contractual wrangle between the Portuguese winger and his former club Douglas to go - I don't think so. The Daily Mirror has linked Walsall with a �400,000 move for Jonathan Douglas of Leeds United. The most unbelievable part of the story is the size of the fee. This would eclipse Walsall's record fee paid, �175,000 for Alan Buckley in June 1979. Loan ranger to come in. Dennis Wise is considering an immediate move in the emergency loan market after revealing Tore Andre Flo and Leon Constantine will be sidelined for longer than expected. Graham Kavanagh may be coming for the rest of the season but Roy O'Donovan can't come due to FIFA's ridiculous three clubs in a season ruling. Smith says goodbye. Alan Smith had this to say : "The only disappointment for me was that I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to the United fans who were great to me all the time I was there. When you consider I A blast from the past. Salomon Olembe, one of Peter Reid's loan rangers has popped up on loan to Wigan Athletic. Terry Schoolboy McQuaid recently watched him play for Marseilles. We didn't know the schoolboy was scouting for Chris Hutchings.
Sun Sept 2nd. The Yorkshire Post on Sept 1st. Its four league wins from four. Leeds 1-0 Luton. Att : 26,856. Ankergren, Richardson, Hughes, Heath, Marques, Prutton, Thompson (73 Clapham), Carole, Kandol, Beckford. Unused subs : Martin, Howson, Parker, Ameobi. Kevin Blackwell returned to Elland Road and received Aug 31st. Transfer deadline Day. Leeds United have signed Scotland youth international goalkeeper Alan Martin from Motherwell. They paid an undisclosed fee for the 18-year-old shot-stopper, who has agreed a two-year contract at Elland Road. The Scotland Under-19 international will provide competition for regular number one Casper Ankergren. "I'm glad it's all gone through now," Martin told the club's official website. "I'm on top of the world to be signing for a club like Leeds. The facilities here are top-class and I'm looking forward to working with the manager and coaching staff and becoming a better player.The 15 points doesn't mean anything, it's already down to six and the players here have a good chance to make history." "Martin was the first player to be signed on deadline day. Around 8PM, Newcastle's 19 year old centre half Paul Huntington signed for Leeds for an undisclosed fee. The young defender joins having featured for the Newcastle United first team 11 times, scoring once, on his debut against Spurs. Aug 31st. Taxman packs it in. Leeds United's summer of discontent took a dramatic final twist today as the taxman abandoned a legal challenge to the club's administrators. The concerns of HM Revenue and Customs about the way accountancy firm KPMG handled United's time in administration were due to be heard at the High Court on Monday. Today, though, the Revenue confirmed it had formally withdrawn its challenge. However, it said it would continue to take all possible steps to secure a "fair return" on the �7.7m in tax and VAT it was owed when Leeds went into administration. Aug 31st. Blackwell back to Leeds. Kevin Blackwell had this to say on his impending return to Leeds : I think there's an element of the 15 point deduction having galvanised them, but I'm not surprised by the start any team makes. At the beginning of every season, teams are looking to make a good start and hope they can mount a promotion push and Leeds are no different. The 15 points was a tough ask, but they've done well to get to minus six already. Dennis' teams are normally quite robust and like to get the ball from back to front as quick as possible. We know all about what Dennis' teams are about and how they play, but you have to say they've been enormously successful in what they've done so far Weds Aug 29th. Third bid refused for Davies. Leeds have had a third bid for Tranmere Rvs left winger, Steve Davies turned down. The 19 year old graduate through the Prenton Park youth system obviously made a lasting impression on Wise during the 2-1 victory for the Whites. That said, Davies Tues Aug 28th. Portsmouth 3-0 Leeds. 8,402 Ankergren, Richardson, Heath, Marques, Parker, Douglas, (83 Bayly) Prutton, (83 Delph) Howson, Carole, Ameobi, Kandol (46 Beckford), Unused - Gardner. Leeds made three changes bringing in Ben Parker at left full for the cup tied Jamie Clapham, Howson replaced Thompson in midfield, 19 year old Ameobi (pic'd below) earned his debut up front instead of Beckford. Wise chose to rest Flo for the game probably opting for the reserve team match against Hull City. Pompey also made wholesale changes but still started with eight full internationals. United played really well and Kandol and Prutton should have put us ahead in the Aug 26th. Rumours abounded all last week in Leeds that Adam Pearson had a €20M bid knocked back for the club. In the Sunday Express today it heavily reports that Pearson is committed to buying the Elland Road club and dealing with Bates. He has stated his intention of acquiring Paul Jewell as m Aug 25th. What the Forest fans had to say. Taken from the excellent Forest fansite "Through the season before us" Beckford and Kandol in the first half left me feeling jealous about what I wanted to see in forward play from the Reds. Tricky, pacy and always finding space with tricky runs - similarly to us though, Leeds struggled to feed them with many chances - of course, it would transpire that a limited number of chances would prove enough. Sat Aug 25th. Notts Forest 1-2 Leeds United Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Heath, Marques, Clapham, Prutton (Flo 62), Douglas, Thompson (Howson 84), Carole, Kandol, Beckford (Parker 90). Subs Not Used: Bayly, Gardner. Booked: Thompson, Beckford. Goals: Kandol 17, Beckford 89. Att: 25,237 This was the score line that will send a shiver down the spi Sat Aug 25th. Hibs defender Rob Jones has pledged his future to Hibs and Tranmers Rvs and Blackpool have pledged to hold on to Steve Davies and Shaun Barker. There's a week to go in the transfer window. Weds 22nd of August. Latest News.
Former Leeds United chairman Peter Ridsdale is donating Aug 19th. Go with the flo !
Aug 18th. Leeds 4-1 Southend. Aug 17th. Eddie Leaves and Jamie arrives Aug 17th. Bates at it again. Aug 17th. Turning point for Wise and Poyet from fans ? Aug 16th. Leeds United draw Portsmouth away in the second round of the Carling Cup Aug 15th. Leon out of luck. The Aug 12th. Tranmere Rvs 1-2Leeds United. Leeds: Ankergren, Rich Aug 11th. Friday Aug 10th. Leeds have signed Norwich midfielder Aug 11th. Leeds to appeal to FA. Bates proclaimed "We will be making an appeal to the FA. "Thursday's meeting was a total disgrace. In the Premier League, any serious disciplinary matters are dealt with by an independent panel, not a group of other clubs. Aug 10th. Leeds appeal thrown out emphatically. Leeds United's bid to escape punishment for their alleged breach of the Football League's insolvency policy was backed by just FIVE of their fellow clubs. Aug 7th. Leeds have signed former Port Vale striker Leon Constantine, ex-Swindon midfielder Curtis Weston and defender Matt Heath. Constantine, 29, started pre-season training with Dennis Wise's men and has put pen to paper on a two-year deal. Weston, 20, was released by Swindon in June and has agreed a two-year contract at Elland Road. Heath, 26, originally joined Leeds on loan from Coventry in November and then signed a short-term deal in January. David Prutton and Rui Marques have both signed, meaning six players have joined the club since the transfer embargo was lifted at the end of last week. Ex-England Under-21 midfielder Prutton, 25, has joined on a trial basis after being released by Southampton at the end of last season. And 29-year-old defender Marques has signed an initial one-year contract with a view to a longer deal. Meanwhile four other players have agreed new one-year contracts. Tomi Ameobi, Scott Gardner, Ben Parker and Gavin Rothery have all extended their deals.
Aug 6th. The Leeds squad going into 2007/08. Casper Ankergren - 27 Rui Marques � 30 Matt Heath � 26 Eddie Lewis � 33 Frazer Richardson � 25 Ben Parker � 20 Jon Douglas � 25 Ian Westlake � 24 Shaun Derry � 30 Scott Gardiner - 18 Jonny Howson � 19 Seb Carole � 25 Jermaine Beckford � 24 Tresor Kandol � 26 Tom Elliott � 17 Fabian Delph � 16 Gylfi Einarsson � 27 Jonathan Lund � 18 Simon Madden � 18 Some of the following will sign also. Curtis Weston - 20 David Prutton � 27 In September Alan Thompson � 34 in December A super left peg and even at his age is a vital player for the Wh Leo Constantine � 29 Scott Loach - 19 Tore Andre Flo � 34
Aug 5th. Casper Ankergren became our first signing of the pre-season when he signed on a three year contract from Brondby for an undisclosed sum. Sun Aug 5th. What chances of an appeal success ? Leeds were warned that they Ex Managers support Whites Three former Leeds managers have backed the supporters to help revive the club in League One. David O'Leary, Peter Reid and Kevin Blackwell believe Leeds can go up, despite a 15-point insolvency penalty. O'Leary told BBC Five Live Sport: "There is an immense fan base and they are still with the club, so they must get their act together now." Reid says the support is "incredible" and Blackwell believes their "fans will follow them everywhere". Leeds will start off the new season 15 points behind the other clubs after breaking Football League rules on insolvency, although the Yorkshire outfit have launched an appeal. The Football League have agreed to let them kick off the new season at Tranmere on Saturday but hit them with an unprecedented points deduction. But Blackwell, sacked by chairman Ken Bates in September 2006, still thinks they could get straight back into the Championship. He added: "I still think Leeds have the ability to get good players to the club. "The name attracts players there and I think now with their Football League share back they will be able to sign some good players. It's going to be tough, there's no doubt about that, but I think they will have the ability to get out of it." Reid thinks it will be hard work for manager Dennis Wise and his players but believes full houses at Elland Road will help them. "The 15-points deduction is a massive blow," said Reid. "They've got to be financially secure to allow them to get results. "It's going to be difficult and you don't know the psychological impact it's had on the players and management, that's the big thing, when you're 15 points behind it is very difficult. "But one thing they have got in their favour is that the support is fantastic. Knowing the Leeds United fans as I do, that's a major asset." Sat Aug 4th. Leeds v Wigan Ath.Loach, Gardner, Marques, P I watched this match live on LUTV. Leeds at last got to model their new shirts complete with new logo, Red Kite. Wigan with their new signings were obviously the better side in the first half, particularly Jason Koumas and Valencia causing the Whites problems. Koumas hit the crossbar early on, a player who usually scores at Elland Road, and it was just before half time he put the Latics ahead after a super move. Leeds, though had chances and the impressive Beckford caused Bramble problems all afternoon. He shot narrowly wide after just five minutes and had a super header saved by Kirkland. Young Gardner did well in the first half at full back, Thompson showed his quality in the middle and Prutton did okay also. In the second half Leeds went 1-2 down due to a delfected Koumas free kick, but over all deserved at least a draw. Thompson had a brilliant free kick saved and Beckford want close twice. Kandol and Beckford were a handful all afternoon for the Latics. Thompson, Douglas, Westlake, Prutton, and Kandiol all came off with 25 mins to go for Howson, Carole, Weston, Bayly and Elliott. The new five did well and nearly equalised straight away. Weston and Howson have quality and will most probably start next week because of the suspensions to Prutton and Douglas. It will be interesting to see who we sign during the week but this was a good performance against Premiership opposition. Fri Aug 3rd. Golden Share returned but what a cost ! Leeds United must start the
Thurs Night Aug 2nd. Officials from KPMG and United met with League chairman Lord Mawhinney on Tuesday for four hours in an attempt to break the deadlock that has seen the club left in limbo since being sold to Ken Bates on July 11. Thurs Aug 2nd. Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney today warned that time is running out on Leeds' chances of starting the new season in Coca-Cola League One. With just nine days until Leeds are due to open their season against Tranmere, their best hope rests with the administrators striking a new agreement with the club's creditors. Weds Aug 1st. Golden share doubt. Leeds' participation in Coca-Cola League One this season remains in the balance with the club and the Football League still locked in talks over the transfer of their 'golden share'. Beleaguered United face the threat of being barred from taking their place in the division after the club's administrators KPMG agreed to sell the business to Ken Bates on July 11. Weds Aug 1st. Richard Cresswell's move to Hull has fallen through. T Weds August 1st. Today's the first day of Autumn and unfortunately Bates is still chairman of Leeds. Here's what the most disliked chairman had to say in the Sunday Mirror of July 29th. What a lovely guy he comes across as. At the end of a week when Leeds fans have called for his head, Ken Bates has hit back at his critics. Bates is feeling the heat from furious supporters frustrated at the lack of information coming out of Elland Road.A "Love Leeds, Hate Bates" website has been set up in a bid to oust him and flowers have been laid next to the Billy Bremner statue as a protest.But the bolshie chairman blasted: "What a few fans are trying to do is cause trouble. They wouldn't give a s**t if Vladimir Putin bought the club as long as it was successful."The ex-Chelsea supremo, in Venice where he and his wife were holidaying last week, also dismissed criticism from Leeds MPs George Mudie and Colin Burgon - and Harrogate MP Phil Willis, who said: "There is a lack of transparency. We don't know anything about these oversees trusts. We don't know the extent of the debts." But Bates, 76, who placed Leeds in administration on May 4 with debts of �35million and won the race to buy it back on July 11, claimed: "None of the MPs support Leeds." When challenged that Burgon was a long-standing fan he replied: "We checked up. His name doesn't appear on our computer. Those MPs don't represent the people of Leeds. They probably got 35 per cent of the votes."You just f***ing ignore them. That's what really frustrates them."Asked about the "flower power" protest at Elland Road he said: "Have you been there? There's about 100 notices and 10 of them are 'Bates Out'."Do you think Man City fans give a f**k whether the former Thailand Prime Minister should be in jail for corruption or whatever? Of course they bloody don't. Do you think West Ham or Manchester United fans care whether Tevez is owned by this Iranian? The critics don't know what Aug 1st. Darlington 0-1 Leeds United. Leeds United: Loach, Gardner, Rui Marques, For all the action of the 2007-08 pre-season, click here For all the highs and lows of the 2006/2007 season, please click here July 5th 2005. If you want to read my review of the season (concentrating highly on Cardiff in May 2006) click to "Diary of a season" on "Other Articles" in blue on left hand side of column.
For previous news stories, please click here. For what you think of Leeds, click here to send in your rants and I'll include them in the "Rants" page. centre |
Leeds
Utd Louth
Supporters Club |
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the Louth Branch website. Always Leeds always loyal ! 
this ? Let's start with the negative parts. Gillingham started well and had a couple of half chances but pretty soon Leeds had the upper hand and the chances came for the Whites thick and fast. Kandol went close, Beckford went close and Carole may have scored also. Leeds were dominating and in total control. One worry I have had all season is the amount of moaning our front two do at referees . Before this game Kandol had two bookings for dissent and Beckford the same. However in this game it does appear that they were kicked up and down the park. The front two received no protection while every Leeds tackle seemed to earn a booking. Central defensive pair of Sodje and Cox in particular kept coming through Kandol and Beckford. Carole deservedly pu
s the breaking player. Leeds who had nine men for the last 38 minutes fought valiantly and defied some Gills pressure whilst still creating some chance themselves through Weston. It was on 90 minutes that Cox who would not have been on the field at this stage for constant fouling (and who only received a yellow card on 75 minuted) popped up with the equaliser. Leeds hung on for the draw. On another day we would have scored five or six against a very poor outfit. The front two will have to learn, because their actions cost us dearly today. They will both be suspended for the Oldham away on Tesuday because of their poor discipline. Wise was sent off at half time for telling the referee what he thought of him. Our run of games has come to an end prematurely today and every coupon in the country was let down by Mr McDermid who was "officiating" in one of his first football league games. This referee in the words of Peter Lorimer was both an indiot and a clown. Makes no difference - we dropped two points needlessly.
ura joked that "it was a quite game and nothing much happened" before admitting to being disappointed. He told the Gills official website: "We had control of the game and was starting to establish a platform to go forward. We went to sleep, it took a little deflection off the set-piece and we're a goal down. "We gathered ourselves together though and continued to make chances. The sending-off doesn't actually help you as you want them to come out and play but they end up defending deep and sitting back rather than going forward. It makes it harder."Talking about playing against nine men he continued: "We do exercises in training with six defending against eight and believe me, it is so difficult to play against. We have six across the box and you're blocking it and the goalkeeper is making saves. Fair play to Leeds, they threw themselves at everything and were blocking it and they showed good spirit despite going down to nine men. "I was pleased with the way we went about it today. We kept trying to probe and pass it. We got players into midfield and out wide and put some crosses in. Once or twice, we didn't take the right options but that happens. I was pleased with it all though as it is never easy playing against nine or ten men. I'm pleased we kept going.". 
an investigation into the Football League's decision to impose a points deduction on the Elland Road club as a result of United's exit from administration without a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA).But the FA announced yesterday that there were no grounds for the governing body to mount an enquiry, insisting the League had abided by its own rules in punishing Leeds. United responded with a statement claiming they were "amazed" by the FA's stance, and the club were today seeking fresh advice from their legal representatives. United have taken issue with both their 15-point punishment and the fact that their initial appeal was heard by a collection of Football League club executives rather than an independent tribunal. Representatives present at the appeal hearing in London on August 9 voted overwhelmingly in favour of upholding the League's penalty, by an initial majority of 64 to five.But Scally, who confirmed he had voted against Leeds' appeal, defended his decision to support the League, and rejected claims from United chairman Ken Bates that the stance of rival clubs had been driven by self-interest.Scally said: "I don't need to hide behind anonymity or a secret ballot. I voted with the League's board and I think I was right to do so. I wasn't responsible for deciding whether Leeds should be punished, or what their punishment should be. Neither were any of the clubs. The board took that decision, and we were simply asked to back one party or the other using the evidence in front of us."The League's explanation seemed very convincing to me and, to be honest, I thought Leeds United's case was really poor. I asked a couple of questions and got answers from Leeds which I felt were completely unsatisfactory. There wasn't any real doubt about which way I should vote."It's a shame that the fans at Leeds have had to suffer, and I feel sorry for the players and staff as well. I actually know Dennis Wise well, and I'd be very upset if I was in the position he was in at the start of the season. But at the end of the day this was the Football League board's decision, and I don't think Leeds' argument against it was good enough."Bates alluded to Scally's vote in his programme notes before last Saturday's game against Swansea, claiming he would ask Scally to explain comments made on live television immediately after last month's appeal hearing when Gillingham visit United on the final day of this season. United's chairman will not be present at Priestfield tomorrow, but Scally said he would have been happy to invite Bates to Gillingham this weekend and insisted his vote in favour of the League had not been cast with the desire to see Leeds cut loose at the bottom of League One. Scally said: "I've heard Ken say that the vote was about self-interest. I find that insulting, and I think he should look a bit closer to home for the reasons. "That doesn't wash with me. I know most of the chairmen in the Football League and I think they voted in good faith. A few might have had the wrong reasons, but not the majority. I don't know if Ken plans to speak to me or not, but I won't lose any sleep over it. All I'll say is that if I was as unhappy with him as he seems to be with me, I'd have been on the phone straight away. He's got my numbers but I haven't heard a thing."
Sat Sept 22nd. Leeds United 2-0 Swansea Ci
ty. 
Leeds could have had more. We are up to 18t now. That's 5 points outside the Play-Offs and 10 points from the top with 39 games to play. Once again the back four (plus Ankergren) kept a clean sheet. That's four clean sheets in a row, and at the other end in all seven league games either Kandol or Beckford have found the net. We have equalled our best ever start to a season winning the first seven league matches set some 34 years ago under Don Revie. Roberto Martinez didn't quite see the same game most othe
rs did : "Apart from the set piece there was nothing in the game and the longer it goes the more in favour it would have been for us. That's why it was so disappointing to concede the opening goal from our corner. Yes we need to learn the little lessons from today, but it was always going to be difficult to come to Elland Road. Leeds depend a lot on two players and through a long, long, season anything can happen. Injuries and suspensions can play a big part, so we are certainly not all playing for second place with such a long way to go. For example, you've got to remember that we had three players out today with a lot of experience and games under their belts. But at the moment Leeds are using the momentum. I don't think they need to be pretty to be effective - and the fans are happy with that. The points deduction is helping them because everyone is getting together and it doesn't matter how you get the result it's good enough for the fans. I do believe that Leeds are probably the team to beat at the moment, but it's a long season and I certainly wouldn't swap the squads." In fairness his own supporters were more generous to the home side. This is what the Jackarmy fan page had to say : "They have started this season like a missile intent on just one target - 
promotion - and more and more people will start to believe on this form that they will do the impossible. They were better in almost every department in this afternoon's game and a short spell in the second half undone all the good work that the Swans had achieved in the first half to keep Leeds at bay. We were beaten today by the better side - whether that side is 15 points better than the rest of the division is hard to say but make no mistake they are far and away the best side we have faced this season." This is 
what Dennis wise had to say : "I can't ask for no more from the, They did fantastic. The performance was the best so far this season. It was an all round performance. We knew how to deal with them and we did it well and we scored two good goals as well. Seven wins is fantastic, but we should be on 21 points. We've done well and we have six points on the board. With what we've done we shouldn't be where we are in the table. We should be a few points clear, but unfortunately we're in a scrap down at the bottom first. We've done well, but we know we have to get the results first. Our first target is to get safety, and we have to take it a game at a time. We're looking to catch the next group and we can easily be dragged back into there if we don't get the results. I'm very pleased, but no one will be getting carried away. We're looking no further than the next game." And the next two games see us for the first time taking on sides below us in the table. Next week we travel to Gillingham and the following Tuesday we go to Oldham Athletic. How apt that is seeing as The chairmen of both Gillingham and Oldham were like greyhounds coming out of the traps (in front of the Sky cameras) commending Mawhinney on the decision to dock Leeds 15 points and adding a bit more for good measure.It might not be much benefit to The Latics or The Gills. Oh football can be a sweet game !!! 
former playing colleague of Gus Poyet) took an unnecessary swipe at Leeds on the eve of the match. That's our team talk done again."It sounds a bit away from football when you try to send your club into administration on the very last day of the season. Boston did exactly the same thing and it's something that's trying to find a gap in the rules. We're always talking about fair play and sporting behaviour and I don't think that goes along those lines. At the moment it is a very false and unrealistic table, we know Leeds are the team to beat. We said the points penalty could help them in a way because they've got the feeling that the world's against them. The team's accepted the situation very well and to get six straight wins is very impressive. Fifteen points is a big margin to make up, but when you look at their players and the status of their football club, then they are right in the promotion race. There is no chance that they will slip away like Rotherham, who lost points last season, they are too good. We know we can express ourselves on any pitch in League One and do ourselves justice. But this is our biggest test yet, not just because it's Leeds United but because of the form they are in. They've got six wins under their belt and the confidence is really high. They have seven or eight players with Premiership experience, and it will be hard for us to impose ourselves against that sort of experience. They play off set-pieces and rely on the power they have got in the box and their two strikers (Jermaine Beckford and Tresor Kandol) are enjoying a honeymoon period."
ntastic result on Friday night in Bristol, it was back to normal in League One on Saturday. Leyton Orient won at Yeovil despite the home side missing a flurry of chances. Orient play Leeds at Elland Road in three weeks. They are top on 13 points from six matches. Tranmere Rvs whom we defeated on day one at Prenton Park are second on 13 points. Hartlepool are third having slipped up at ho
me to Swindon Town. They occupy third just 7 points ahead of the Whites. All these sides are taking points from each other. Carlisle and Yeovil who are both also on 10 points both lost this weekend, and Brighton are currently in the last Play-Off position on 9 points just 6 points ahead of Leeds. They are all being pulled back week after week. The bookies now have us 9/2 to win the division. That's second favourites. Notts Forest on 6 points are 4/1 favourites. I said it before and I'll say it again. If we finish ahead of Notts Forest this season we will be promoted, and the bookies whom are rarely wrong, seem to agree. These were the prices quoted on Sunday September 16th. 
"I'm pleased, very pleased, but we have to stay calm. This is another step, but there's a long way to go.
Wise has revealed that strikers Jermaine Beckford and Tresor Kandol are to be offered improved deals to stay at Elland Road. The pair have been in sparkling form since the start of the new season with their seven combined goals helping Leeds to secure five consecutive wins and wipe out the 15 point penalty imposed by the Football League.Wise said: "We are negotiating with Tresor and Jermaine. They both love it here now and they want to stay. They have started the season like a house on fire and they are a good partnership."
is career after joining Leeds United on a short-term deal. The former Sheffield Wednesday keeper completed his move on a free transfer yesterday afternoon, committing himself to the Elland Road club until January.
present but the atmosphere at times was akin to the good old days. I was very impressed with Frazer Richardson who was outstanding at full nack, and capatin for the day Andy Hughes looks a good player. Ankergren, despite making some wonderful saves dropped or missed far to many crossees and will cost us against better teams. That said, Hartlepool were the best side we have played yet and their manager was disappointed that they came away from Elland Road with nought. Their 2,500 fans added to the occasion and they will definitely win more than they will lose. Leeds have a number of players to come back but there is no doubting that the team has tremendous morale at the moment with an infectious team spirit. Long may it continue and hopefully we will be on three points this Friday.
Thurs. Sept. 6th. 2007. It was with sadness that I learned of the death of former Leeds United full back, Byron Stevenson, at the age of just 50. The Welsh International made 110 appearances for the Whites between 1973 and 1982. He was capped 15 times for Wales and his most prolific season for Leeds came during the 1979/80 season when he played 30 matches. I remember him well when I was growing up as a tall right back who gave 100% in every game. RIP Byron. 
came from Leeds and the clubs supporters are not exactly the best of friends, it was a big thing for them to accept me the way they did.They knew Leeds were the team I'd always supported but they never held it against me. I still have a lot of friends at Old Trafford and will be looking out for their results."Smith also revealed that, since leaving United, he has received a letter from Sir Alex Ferguson thanking him for his contribution to the club."I must have done something right when I was there for the manager to take the time to send me a message like that," said Smith."I was really pleased to get the letter. He thanked me for my contribution to Manchester United and told me what a difficult decision it was to sell me.I understand that. There are no hard feelings. But I've been lucky to move from one big club to another and, hopefully, I can help bring some silverware to Newcastle after so many years without a trophy." Personally I believe Smith will play some part in the Leeds reformation in the next four years and fingers up to the arsehole begrudgers
Friday last and now the Sunday People 
have linked Leeds with making a move for out of favour Rep of Ireland midfielder Graham Kavanagh from Sunderland. The loan window reopens next week and it suggests that Leeds will go for a three month deal to strengthen their options. The People also stated that Leeds will also attempt to lure Roy O'Donovan to Elland Road, also from Sunderland as cover for Beckford and Kandol. We have little cover if anything affects our front two with Constantine and Flo both injured. O'Donovan who moved recently from Cork City is quick and effective and still remains top scorer in the League of Ireland. Kavanagh controlled the game last year at Elland Road when The Makems romped to a 3-0 victory, ultimately Blackwell's last league game in charge.O'Donovan is 22 and joined Sunderland for €500,000 which can go to €1M depending on success and Kavanagh is 34 in December having played also for Middlesbro, Cardiff, Wigan and Stoke City. 
fell has worked har at his game and his partnership with Beckford is the best in the division. Kandol is difficult to play against and seems to be the perfect foil for the lightening quick Beckford. The pair have five now between then with the ex Barnet player surprisingly and deservedly earning the lions share. The pair are inseparable on and off the pitch and it shows. We are missing Flo and Constantine now through injury and Wise made no bones about trying to get a striker on loan during the window. At this rate the present incumbents will be very difficult to displace. Wise and Blackwell exchanged words after the final whistle and Luton head coach John Carver also clashed with the United boss. Wise said: "I don't think Kevin wanted to shake my hand. He told me in a nice kind of way to **** off. He was disappointed he had lost, because it was probably the biggest game of his career. A trifle unfair seeing as he took us the Play-Offs final in Cardiff ". Blackwell said: "It was a warm handshake in keeping with the game. Nothing happened really. If you don't have passion for the game you shouldn't be in the game. "I don't think Dennis heard what I said. He brought his head forward to hear. Maybe it was misinterpreted. The game was entertaining and it was entertaining afterwards too, so the fans have enjoyed it but we are disappointed with the result. "We didn't sit back. We came to win the game. Leeds are on the crest of a wave and fair play to them. They've been galvanised by the minus 15 points imposed on them." No love lost but a case of handbags also !
Huntington is a holder of the Jackie Milburn Trophy, awarded to promising players that are based in the North East and has represented England at Under 18 level.
on loan, but Wise is slowly getting in younger players. Portuguese midfielder (23 years old) 
this season. On his own side, he said: "What I've said about Leeds are my feelings not the players'. They're going to play at Elland Road, which is a magical place believe me. "It's a great stage to play on and to want to play at and we've got players who can play. I'm looking for the likes of Bell, Currie, Springy and Edwards to come to the fore." Blackwell will have to decide whether to reinstate Darren Currie and Dave Edwards � both rested for the cup win over the Black Cats � instead of Dean Morgan and Steve Robinson. Richard Jackson could be back available after he was substituted with a groin strain in the first-half of the midweek Sunderland win. Drew Talbot should be fit after being replaced in the same game and Dean Brill is expected to be back after his thigh problem to compete with loan signing David Forde for a starting place between 
the sticks. Paul Peschisolido, Sam Parkin, Richard Langley, Ed Asafu-Adjaye and Paul Underwood are all definitely out. Wee Dennis got his own dig in about Blackwell's management : "We know all about them. It's going to a big game. They're going well. They have a lot of older players with loads of experience. I think that's the way he likes to do things. But hopefully pour younger ones and their legs will have too much for them". I think Dennis forgets who bought Wise and that he also bought some old players like Thompson and Flo. Wise was given the manger of the Month award for August but "won't be putting the award on his mantlepiece for what the Football League did on us".
has refused to sign a contract extension, so Leeds may be tempted back with one final offer before the dead line on Friday night. Ronnie Moore said on the club web site : "Clubs have much less power than they used to, even with young players, and there is only so much we can do. It's not a matter of the Club wanting or needing to sell, quite often the decision is based on what the player wants to do. Chris Porter, Oldham's leading scorer last season moved to Scotland and they didn't receive a transfer fee or compensation even though he is under 24 years old because it is a different country." Leeds may yet get the player and one or two of their other targets. Wise is reluctant to enter the loan market again :"I don't like loan players because last year I got murdered with Lubo. At 12.30 on a Friday afternoon � when we'd finished all our set plays � I got a phone call from someone saying he was going back (to Bolton). That's why I don't like it, and I need to sign players permanently.We've put offers in for certain players, and people know who they are. We're still trying to go back because they're the players that we've singled out and the players that we'd like to sign. I hope we get them because we need them."
first half. Leeds played fluent attacking football but it was the home side that went ahead undeservedly through Parmerot two minutes before half time. Beckford replaced Kandol at half time and really should have scored in the early minutes of the second half. Heath was then denied a certain penalty and Beckford began to earn some rough treatment from the Pompey back four whilst giving them the run around. Portsmouth scored late goals in the last ten minutes as Leeds made the changes giving some of the young kids a run out. The 3-0 score line flattered the home side but emphasizes the importance of taking chances. Our opponents for Saturday in contrast (Luton) earned a 3-0 home win over Premier side opposition. I bet Kevin Blackwell enjoyed that. The last time they were in opposition was a very different matter 0-3 to Sunderland (v Leeds) at Elland Road in Autumn last year which I had the misfortune of witnessing. 
anager when/if the deal is completed. Bates will most probably be impossible to deal with despite the contempt in which he is held by Leeds fans plus there is the added problem that he must pay extra to the creditors if he sells before the summer of 2008. Bates is not one to lose money for himself. We'll follow this tale with interest. 
a shoestring in about three weeks, it does rather raise question marks around around our expensively assembled one, over a longer time period.
ne of all the leading lights of the 3rd tier. That's three league wins on the bounce and it's down to minus six, just eight points behind pre-season favourites, Notts Forest. It was a game of two halves with United having the better of the first. Kandol continued his fine form and fired home after good work by Beckford on 17 mins. 
Minutes later Prutton rattled the crossbar against his former side. Forest were the better side after the break and deservedly equalised through a deflected shot off Thompson. They missed three or four really good chances but credit to Wise who went for it by replacing Prutton with Flo. This in effect meant that Leeds went three up front. In the final minute after superb work from the ineffective (up to this point) Carole whipped in a shot that was prodded home by Beckford. That's two for him in three and I'm happy with the 20/1 speculated on him being the division top scorer. Leeds officially had 3,483 tickets but there is no doubt that hundreds more were sprinkled around the ground . It may have been a 1PM kick off but it's Leeds who are the real early birds in this division despite the 
Leeds have been closely linked with Hibernian captain and centre half, Rob Jones. The 27 year old 6 foot 7 inch defender has asked Hibs for permission to speak with Leeds about a move. He joined from Grimsby last season for just €150,000. The player's agent has maintained that Hibs agreed to go back to the table to discuss his salary package if the player performed well. It is difficult to argue that he hasn't surpassed expectations by captaining the side since his arrival to CIS Cup glory last season in a two team dominated league. Leeds are thought to be offering €400,000 but Hibs are seeking closer to the €1M mark. The Hibs wages are capped at €1,700 per week. Some LOI players are on more money than that and the player wants to talk with Leeds, a club he knows can at least treble his wages and with a brighter future than the Edinburgh side. His set piece prowess also helped him to 9 goals in 52 appearances Manager John Collins had this to say : "Rob has done a terrific job for us and when players are doing well other clubs can take notice," Collins said. "I don't want to sell him and he is under contract. If someone wants to buy him they will just have to wait. I am not going to deny that there has been interest in him but he is too important to the team to let him go."
all the money he makes from his controversial new book to charity. Every penny the ex-Leeds chief receives in royalties or up front payments from the book is going to St Gemma's Hospice in Moortown
Tore Andre Flo reflected on scoring the vital goal for the Whites against Southend. He said: "What a good feeling to score, it is what I have been working towards in the gym and the treatment room. This has been the most frustrating time of my whole career."At first, we thought it would be a small thing but it ended up being seven months. I broke the bone, had an operation and then broke it again at the end of the season. For a time, I was thinking 'will I ever come back?'
that was delayed 15 minutes to let the 24,000 crowd in, Leeds scored three late goals to win their third straight game. Alan Thompson opened the scoring with a free-kick but Adam Barrett equalised for Southend with a header after Matt Harrold's shot had been parried. Leeds took the lead again after 85 minutes when Tore Andre Flo struck from 12 yards and Rui Marques then converted a corner from Sebastien Carole. Jermaine Beckford then capped a fine performance with an 18-yard volley after a long pass from Tresor Kandol. It was a very good performance by the Whites roared on by a passionate and volatile home following. Credit to Wise for going for the jugular by bringing on Flo for Prutton, and the big Viking didn't disappoint to the home support and his "Leeds mad" brother. It's down to minus 12 now.
Louth Branch player of the year for 2006/07, Eddie Lewis was sold to Derby County for a fee thought to be around �275,000. Wise said he couldn't stand in the player's way to play in the Premiership at his age.The 33-year-old made 96 appearances for United after joining on a free transfer from Preston, and the move was irresistable to a player who is aiming to keep his international career alive. The Californian has signed a two-year contract after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee last week and Wise said: "I wanted to keep Eddie, but this is a wonderful opportunity for him."He phoned me up and I was never going to stand his way and say 'sorry you're not going'. "I think he would have been annoyed with me if I'd have done that. "He's been a good pro, he's done very well for us and I'm chuffed to bits he's got an opportunity like that." Derby boss Billy Davies had charge of Lewis at Preston and identified him
as someone who would bring experience and quality to the Pride Park squad
gave a good team talk at half time and Leeds came out a different side to the delight of their massive away support. A text book Thompson free kick allowed Heath to seal in at the back post and level the scores, and in the last minuted Kandol scurried the ball over the line for a late winner.It was a wonderful moment for the Congalese centre forward whose work rate rarely matches his finishing. The ref played five minuted added on time but the Whites were never in any real danger as Wise's rigerous fitness pre-season stood them in good stead. It's down to minus twelve and Leeds did a higgle as a show of support to the fans and agasint everyone else. Terrific start. Elsewhere, pre-season gavourites Nott Forest could only draw at home. 
for an undisclosed fee on a two-year deal. The 29-year-old who joined the Canaries from Reading in July 2005 made 69 appearances and scored twice for the Carrow Road outfit. Norwich boss Peter Grant told his club website: "His quality of character shone through last season and it was not right to stand in his way. "Leeds were able to offer him a longer deal which I didn't feel able to do." Dennis Wise complimented the ex Canary on his apprach to starting League One 15 points behind : "I told him we were minus 15 because we lost the appeal and he said "no problems gaffer we'll just brush pirselves down and get on with it". That's someone who wants to join this club. He doesn't care. He wants to give it a real go".
ites. Scored some beauties last season especially versus Hull. Has won almost everything north of the border with Celtic and a big player for them in Europe. Has also played for Newcastle, Bolton and Aston Villa. Will be Leeds captain for season 2007/08.
could be thrown out of the Football League for breach of regulations following their financial collapse this summer according to the Sunday Mirror. On Friday the League meted out an unprecedented 15-point deduction against the Yorkshire club. Sunday Mirror Sport understands the club had been warned by senior League officials - including in writing - that they were on course for severe disciplinary action. The ultimate punishment could have been ejection from the League. There is disagreement over when Leeds were warned that they were heading towards the points penalty. The issue appears to have been discussed weeks ago, and put in writing by League chairman Lord Mawhinney. But a Leeds spokesman said last night: "The first time we had any news about a possible points deduction was last Monday. Our preferred option would have been for the CVA to go through." Doubts were raised about Leeds' future after the club failed to agree a CVA (Company Voluntary Arrangement) to pay off an acceptable amount of their debts. The Football League board decided they had no option but to take the historic step of docking 15 points before the season starts. Leeds look certain to face a relegation battle in League One - unless they can persuade the other 71 clubs to reduce the points penalty at Thursday's emergency meeting in London. The League sent a letter yesterday to all their 72 clubs saying: "It's vital every club is represented and able to vote on what will be a landmark decision." Leeds hopes of escaping sanctions appear doomed. Their future will lie in the hands of their 71 rivals. A simple majority vote will decide the outcome - and the clubs actually have the power to impose a tougher penalty! The mood among clubs contacted by Sunday Mirror Sport was largely hostile. One Championship chairman said: "It's one of the most dramatic situations I've ever seen." But Colin Burgon, the MP for Leeds Elmet, said: "This is a really harsh sentence. Once again it's the fans who are paying the price."
arker, Lewis, Douglas, Prutton, Thompson, Westlake, Beckford, Kandol. Subs - Elliott, Cortizo (trialist goalkeeper), Delph, Carole, Howson, Bayly. 
League One season with a 15-point deduction after receiving their Football League share. The Whites have been trying to secure the share in time to begin the new campaign next weekend against Tranmere Rovers. But in order to take up their spot in League One for the coming season, Dennis Wise's Leeds must accept a 15-point penalty. An appeal has been lodged with the Football League, with Leeds releasing a statement to confirm the announcement. "We are pleased to announce that the board of the Football League Ltd have agreed to transfer the share in the Football League to Leeds United 2007 Ltd," read the statement. "The Football League have transferred the share in 'exceptional circumstances' and have imposed a 15-point penalty for the start of the 2007/08 season. The club have appealed against this sanction. The timescale for the appeal is not yet known. "The club has received an amount of criticism from supporters for not keeping them up to date with developments during what has been a very difficult time for us all. "We appreciate this policy was difficult for fans to accept, but please be assured that this was done in the best interests of Leeds United which is justified by the return of the share. "We are now planning the appeal and we are able to complete the squad rebuilding for the 2007/08 season, albeit with only one week to go before our first League One game at Tranmere." Leeds chairman Ken Bates told Sky Sports News: "We are delighted we are back in the league. We are surprised it has taken so long. "We intend to appeal against the 15-point deduction because we have still to have an explanation for that."
Leeds United's administrators KPMG have told the Football Lague that the CVA process cannot be started again.
he Tigers had agreed a fee with the 29-year-old, who had also accepted personal terms, only for his medical to prove unsatisfactory. City chairman Paul Duffen told Radio Humberside: "We weren't 100% happy with the outcome. "There was an element of risk involved, which I've decided isn't where we should be, seeing as there is a big financial commitment involved." Cresswell has scored 11 goals in 44 appearances for Leeds since joining from Preston for �1.5million in 2005. Cresswell's move from Leeds United to Yorkshire rivals Hull has fallen through after concerns over the striker's medical. Leeds duo Jonathan Douglas and Jermaine Beckford will both serve reserve-team bans following their dismissals against FC Energie Cottbus.
they're talking about."OK, so some Leeds fans say, 'F*** off back to Chelsea and take that little **** Wise with you'. But you always get that. It's like the National Front. You'll never stamp them out."After taking a wage deferral the United players are to be paid for the first time in seven weeks - and Bates insisted that Dennis Wise's squad will be allowed to play in League One, despite the Football League still not allowing them to be members.He said: "We've got 12 days to go and we're acutely aware of that. But we will be playing Tranmere Rovers on August 11. The players have been as good as gold. They have just been paid their June wages."We've finally drawn a line under the past.