Leeds went into the regular season's final day sat third and needing both a victory against Southampton plus a Huddersfield Town win at second-placed Ipswich Town to finish in the division's second automatic promotion place.
Yet instead the Whites got the total opposite, Southampton leaving Elland Road with a 2-1 victory and Ipswich sealing automatic promotion in style with a 2-0 win against the Terriers. Ipswich have ultimately finished six points clear of Leeds who will now face Farke’s former side Norwich City in the semi-finals of the play-offs, the winners facing either Southampton or West Brom in the Wembley final for a place in the country’s top flight.
Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a very frustrating final day at Elland Road.
Graham Smyth, the YEP’s chief football writer, hands out the scores from a very frustrating final day at Elland Road.
7. Glen Kamara
5 - Some nice work in possession but couldn't contain Smallbone at all. Saints enjoyed a lot of midfield space. Photo: George Wood
8. Crysencio Summerville
5 - Couldn't do it. Got into promising positions but then was crowded out or chose the wrong option. Frustration showed in his play. Photo: Ed Sykes
9. Willy Gnonto
7 - Held a threat, worked well with Byram, got at Manning and played a part in the goal. Body language showed that he was up for it, at least. Photo: Ed Sykes
10. Georginio Rutter
3 - A shadow of the player who contributed all those assists. Confidence looks to be a problem and the energy drained from him. Next to nothing coming off in possession. Photo: Ed Sykes
11. Joel Piroe
5 - Brighter than his previous performance in the first half and got himself a goal. Faded completely after that. Photo: Ed Sykes
12. Archie Gray (sub)
5 - Tried to get on the ball and play forward. Couldn't do it in areas or ways to hurt Saints. Photo: Ed Sykes