Leeds United Women met with ‘unique challenge’ ahead of local derby
Leeds United Women may have had an excellent season, but promotion proved to be just out of reach.
Simon Wood’s side had a dip in form after the winter break, which proved to be a crucial time in the campaign, leading to the Whites falling behind.
With only the top side getting promoted, Leeds had to be at the top of their game throughout the campaign, with little room for error.
As Middlesbrough and Cheadle Town battle it out for promotion, Leeds have their own fight to contest as they could move up from fourth to finish third in the league ahead of Chorley.
The only thing standing in their way is a battle away at York City, who sit tenth in the table but are safe from relegation.
Leeds facing challenge against York
Looking at both sides’ form this season, Leeds are the favourites to beat their Yorkshire rivals on the final day of the campaign.
Back in November, the two sides met and it was the Whites who came out on top with a dominant 3-0 performance.
Goals from Amy Woodruff, Drew Greene and Darcie Green proved to be the difference in front of a crowd of 4801 at Elland Road.
Given the local tie, the West Yorkshire outfit held the game at Elland Road and the supporters certainly spurred Wood’s side on as they notched up their goal tally.
Sunday’s game takes place, however, at the York Sport Stadium and the hosts should have a solid crowd behind them in the final game of the campaign as they show their appreciation for their side solidifying their spot in the league.
With this in mind, Wood’s side have to change their mentality going into this game compared to the last time they ran out against York, with the manager having to consider that it’s going to be a more low-key affair.
Victory for Leeds is important
The season is over for Leeds and although they can still finish above Chorley, who they beat 4-1 last time out, final league position doesn’t count for anything concrete.
| Played | Won | Drawn | Lost |
| 21 | 12 | 2 | 7 |
Nevertheless, finishing the season on a high and taking all three points from their Yorkshire rivals would be massive for Leeds ahead of the summer.
Leeds will no doubt be going for top spot again next season in the hope of securing promotion, replicating the success of Daniel Farke’s side this term.
With that in mind, Wood will have plenty of work to do over the summer to ensure he retains the spine of his squad while also making the necessary additions.
York are one of the weaker sides in the table and the West Yorkshire outfit have to prove that they can perform on different stages.
Finishing the season with a victory could send a statement ahead of next season that Leeds are one to watch.