Former Leeds United players reunited at Ormsby benefit match

Former Leeds player Gary Kelly walks on to the pitch with Brendan Ormsby

A Leeds Legends XI, which included Lee Sharpe and Gary Kelly, took on the John Sheridan XI at Farsley AFC’s ground to raise cash for charities the Stroke Association and Speakability.

Brendon Ormsby is recovering from the stroke he suffered just before Christmas 2013, which has left him struggling to read and speak.

The benefit game was organised by Farsley first team manager and ex-United player Neil Parsley along with ex-Elland Road players John Sheridan and John Stiles.

The John Sheridan XI included Bradford City boss Phil Parkinson.

The match ended 3-3 after former Leeds manager Simon Grayson netted a late equaliser for Leeds Legends.

Neil Parsley said: “It has been a privilege to get involved in bringing all these ex-players together. The response from the public has been brilliant.”

Brendon Ormsby’s son Liam, 24, said: “I think it is testament to how dad was as a player.

“He got on with everyone and treated everyone with respect. I think that’s showed with how many people have turned out today.”

Former Leeds United winger Lee Sharpe said: “I’m here for Brendon.

“The football community always gets together and helps people who are not in such a good place.”

He added: “It’s a great turnout from the lads. I’ve not played for a few months. Hopefully the touch is still working.”

Brendon Ormsby with boxer Josh Warrington

Brendon was at yesterday’s match with his wife Wendy.

Mrs Ormsby said: “We have been overwhelmed by the amount of people who have come here today.”

John Stiles said: “He was a great player, an honest player who would do anything for you.

“We just want to help a friend out who we love dearly.”

Brendon’s former United teammate Noel Blake said: “Brendon is a great friend of mine. We were apprentices together at Villa.

Also lending his support at the match was Leeds boxing sensation Josh Warrington.

And there were celebrations for the Ormsby family before the kick off.

Liam Ormsby got the right result after getting down on one knee to propose to fiancee Marriane Wragg ahead of the game. She said yes.