Bad week in South Yorkshire

The week started full of promise.  After three straight league victories I was hopeful that we would come away from the Republic of South Yorkshire with at least four points.  But alas we were ripped apart by Barnsley in a great second half display.  Another inept performance by our defence and we lost 5-2.  Becchio never seemed like scoring and his support just wasn't there.

Things had to get better for our TV appearance against Doncaster on Friday.  Surely the manager wouldn't stick with the same defence - there must be changes.  And indeed there was.  In came Hughes, Bruce and White.  Up front Somma started and Becchio was on the bench.  Despite being under the cosh a bit at the start this was a much better performance and the team seemed well balanced.  I think Bruce played particulalry well - you've no idea what it takes to say that.  His dad, Steve Bruce (yes him), was watching the game from the stands.  Who would have thought that Schmeichel and Bruce would ever be wearing a Leeds shirt!

Anyway a 0-0 draw was a good result against Donny Rovers and we finished Friday night in sixth place.  After yesterday's games we had dropped to 12th but still only a win off 2nd spot.  Leaders QPR remain unbeaten on 19 points.

Way back in 1920 Leeds were beating Leicester City 3-1 at Elland Road on Saturday 18th September.  Goals from Ellson and Goldthorpe (2) secured the points.

Leeds fans really love it when a local lad plays for the club.  In the current team we have Jonny Howson of course.  In that 1920 side thrashing Leicester City there was Ernie Goldthorpe.  He was a centre forward born in Middleton, Leeds on 8th June 1898.  Bad injuries prevented Ernie from fulfilling his potential.  After leaving the army Ernie trained with Spurs but joined Bradford City in June 1919.  Leeds signed him a year later but he was troubled by a serious knee injury and in March 1922 he rejoined Bradford City.  Six months later

he committed perhaps the worst sin any local lad can and went to Manchester United on a free transfer.  Three years later he signed for Rotherham United.

Next week sees a third consecutive derby against another South Yorkshire team - Sheffield United.  They are now managed by Gary Speed.  I hope he gets a good reception from the crowd - I'm sure he will.