Leeds United bowed out at the Second Round stage of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night to League Two outfit Salford City after a 1-1 draw and eventual 9-8 defeat on penalties.
It was not until the 75th minute before skipper for the day Struijk levelled the scoreline, prodding home beneath Leeds fan and Salford goalkeeper Alex Cairns to take the game to penalties after eight minutes of added time, in which substitute Sam Greenwood struck the crossbar with a free-kick.
Cairns made a number of impressive stops at the Peninsula Stadium and was subsequently awarded the Man of the Match award by broadcaster Sky Sports. Leeds recorded an Expected Goals total on the night just shy of 4.00 but found the back of the net just once.
Georginio Rutter and Jamie Shackleton were the unfortunate Leeds pairing to see their spot-kicks saved and hit the woodwork, respectively. As the shoot-out went to sudden death, Darlow was penalised and yellow-carded for leaving his goal-line at Salford's decisive penalty kick, which the Leeds stopper saved.
However, a retake was ordered and defender Ossama Ashley converted, leading to a pitch invasion by the home supporters as Salford made it to the Third Round of the competition for the first time in the club's history.
1. Karl Darlow - 7
Might have done better with the goal. There when called upon otherwise. (Pic: Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
2. Jamie Shackleton - 8
Lively first half, caused problems and continued in that vein throughout. Scampered up the right all evening, was so tidy on the ball. (Pic: Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson
3. Pascal Struijk - 7
Beaten in the air for the opener but generally solid, good on the ball. Got involved in the opposite box and got a goal. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images) Photo: Jess Hornby
4. Charlie Cresswell - 6
Given a difficult time of it by Smith and Hendry at times. No lack of energy or organising. Looks anxious to impress. (Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images) Photo: Cameron Smith
5. Leo Hjelde - 5
Endured a difficult first half in and out of possession but defensively in particular. Didn't come under as much pressure in the second half. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images) Photo: Jess Hornby
6. Archie Gray - 7
Looked particularly good in the first half. Strong in the tackle, good on the ball. Not as much of an attacking threat second half but kept wanting the ball. (Pic: Bruce Rollinson) Photo: Bruce Rollinson