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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
James Whaling

Man Utd fans react as Leeds lose playoff semi-final to spend another year outside Premier League

In the first decade of the Premier League, Manchester United vs Leeds was one of the top-flight's biggest rivalries.

Despite the all-conquering Red Devils' fierce battles with title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool , there was a certain edge to their matches with the Yorkshire side.

But since the Whites' relegation in 2004, the two sides have been restricted to just two clashes in the FA Cup and League Cup, winning one apiece.

And while the rivalry is still very real, some United fans were disappointed not to see Leeds reattain their Premier League status this evening.

They were beaten 4-2 on the night by Derby, crashing out of the playoffs 4-3 on aggregate to Frank Lampard's side.

Leeds 2-4 Derby (3-4 agg): Rams book Wembley berth in Elland Road thriller

One United fan tweeted: "What a game of the beautiful that was. Hard to be too sad for Leeds, but mildly disappointed #MUFC won’t be playing them twice next season.

"Having said that, with the skill, speed and intensity which they play the game, they’d have likely beaten us (as will Derby, again)."

Another added: "Leeds were nailed on for promotion until #Spygate. That really derailed their season.

Frank Lampard celebrates Derby's win at Leeds (Getty Images)

"Although I hate Leeds more than City, I was looking forward to the Utd/Leeds rivalry in the PL next season."

A third posted: "Actually wanted Leeds to go up. Rivalry makes football. Imagine going Derby or Villa. Not the same."

Stuart Dallas fired Leeds in front on the night against Derby, but a nightmare moment for keeper Kiko Casilla saw substitute Jack Marriott equalise just before the break.

Mason Mount made it level on aggregate at the start of the second half, and Harry Wilson's penalty gave Derby the advantage.

Dallas' second got Leeds back into it, but Gaetano Berardi was then sent off for a second booking for the home side.

Marriott's second put Derby back in front, and the Rams held out despite Scott Malone also receiving his marching orders late on.

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