Leeds United - on this day: Whites begin minus 15 campaign with Tranmere Rovers win

15 points...
Tresor Kandol celebrates his late winner against Tranmere. (JPIMedia)Tresor Kandol celebrates his late winner against Tranmere. (JPIMedia)
Tresor Kandol celebrates his late winner against Tranmere. (JPIMedia)

The day...

August 11, 2007

The event...

Leeds United played their first ever competitive match in the third tier of English football.

What happened?

Following a turbulent summer off the pitch full of administration, battles with HMRC and off-field uncertainty - Leeds United finally began their League One campaign.

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United had suffered relegation from the Championship amid financial turmoil the season before.

The Football League had handed the Whites a further 15-point penalty ahead of the new term after it was deemed they exited administration incorrectly - a battle chairman Ken Bates would fiercely contest.

Leeds boss Dennis Wise took his side to Prenton Park for the curtain raiser with Tranmere Rovers the opponents.

An 'us against the world' siege mentality was struck amongst fans and players with Leeds facing the reality of playing in League One just four seasons on from Premier League football.

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Chris Greenacre gave the hosts the advantage in the first half before defender Matt Heath levelled up proceedings with a header on the hour mark.

Leeds pushed on and striker Tresor Kandol bagged in the final minute of normal time to ensure the spoils would return to West Yorkshire.

Celebrations played out on pitch and in the stands as United made their first inroads into the points deficit.

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