This Day in History: 2023-08-10

Nr. 496

LEEDS UNITED BLITZ THE SAINTS (1972)

The Leeds United contingent in the 34,275 crowd chanted «Ole!» as pass after accurate pass found its mark and Leeds’ opponents, Southampton, failed to get near the ball. This stunning 4 March demonstration of team arrogance was probably the only time that Leeds truly emulated Real Madrid on the pitch, even though the two clubs shared an all­ white strip. The Southampton players ran themselves ragged, not only through the longest 27-pass sequence, but also throughout the match. It was all to no avail, though, as Leeds delighted their home fans at Elland Road with a 7-0 trouncing.

Playing in all-white like Real Madrid, Leeds turned in a performance the Spaniards would have been proud of against Southampton.