By Andy Baggott
August 18 2003

After all the apparant doom and gloom around Elland Road, Leeds produced a fine perfomance to show that maybe we're not about to collapse after all... Wonder where are all the 'experts' are this morning who wrote off Leeds as relegation fodder. United produced an excellent performance against strong opposition although a draw was about a fair result. Leeds started like an express train, Smith twice going close after good work by Sakho. The Frenchman looks set to be a big favourite down at Elland Road. He has skill, pace, and a high work ethic. After Shearer had given Newcastle an undeserved lead, Sakho set up Viduka, and the big Aussie smashed home the equaliser. The game went end to end, although neither keeper was especially busy. After the interval, Smith capitalised on a weak header by Olivier Bernard, and smashed home to give Leeds the lead. It was backs to the wall stuff now, and Reid broguht on Domi and Batty, the latter to a huge reception, as he tried to shore things up. Viduka was alone up front, but we struggled to keep the ball. Lucas produced an amazing clearance from under his own crossbar, but we could not hold out, and Shearer poked home a late equaliser. Big pluses for Leeds were Sakho who looks the part, Smith who was everywhere, and Lucas who was quite awesome. Ratings Robinson 7 - not much to do Kelly 7 - no chance to get forward Matteo 7 - defended well Radebe 9 - mistake for penalty, but superb for the remainder Camara 8 - impressive centre back Morris 7 - quietly efficient Johnson 8 - strong performance on his comeback Wilcox 6 - offered little Sakho 9 - brilliant debut Viduka 7 - good goal but quiet Smith 9 - never stopped and a good goal subs Domi - 7 settled in well Batty 7 - welcome back! What's your view? Post on the message board - link below