Leeds United nostalgia: Topsy-turvy season for Gray's Whites

Leeds United had an up and down start to the 1984/85 season mainly due to cost cutting but the Whites eventually finished in seventh place in Division Two.
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The close season acquisition of Andy Linighan from Hartlepool United for £20,000 boosted the Whites ranks and a positive start to the season saw Eddie Gray’s Leeds win the first four games putting them top of The Canon League Division Two.

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The next three games saw the Whites collect no more points which reflected their hot and cold season. Leeds were dominant in attack with their talented youngsters showing pace but were often outmuscled when competing with physical opponents.

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Early December saw United net eight goals in four games. The Whites defeated Wimbledon 5-2 at home with Andy Ritchie scoring a hat-trick with the other goals coming from Tommy Wright and Scott Sellars.

Leeds then proved themselves away at Shrewsbury Town with Ritchie bagging two goals and Linighan one. Birmingham City were next to visit Elland Road and ruined Leeds’ chance of a building up a decent winning streak, as the Blues won 1-0.

Leeds however, got back to winning ways when visiting Wolverhampton Wanderers. United claimed a 2-0 victory with George McCluskey and Frank Gray, pictured right, netting on the day. Boxing Day didn’t bring any Christmas cheer as United lost 2-1 at Blackburn Rovers.

The last game of 1984 saw the Whites draw 1-1 with Cardiff City with Peter Lorimer converting his third penalty of the season.