Leeds United produced their biggest win of the season on Easter Monday with a massive 6-0 win over Stoke City at Elland Road, and Daniel Farke even handed Harry Gray his debut.
Leeds came into the game knowing they needed to beat Sheffield United’s result on the day to secure promotion to the Premier League. The pressure was on Leeds then, to put the pressure on The Blades.
In the best way possible, Leeds did that. A barnstorming first half saw Leeds go into the break 5-0 up over Mark Robins’ side, who were undefeated in five games coming to Elland Road, winning their last two.
As is always the way with such a scoreline, Leeds only managed one more in the second half as Willy Gnonto netted his seventh of the season after four for Joel Piroe and another goal for Junior Firpo.
Tony Dorigo shares what Eddie Gray did after Harry Gray debut
With Leeds easily winning, it allowed Daniel Farke to bring on 16-year-old Harry Gray for his Leeds debut. The teenage talent, and younger brother of Archie, was only in the squad because Dan James wasn’t.
He was the fifth of five substitutes and wearing the Leeds no.45 shirt, becomes the fifth member of the Gray family to play for Leeds after Archie, father Andy, grandfather Frank Gray and great uncle Eddie.
Eddie Gray was in the stands as he so often is. Tony Dorigo was on co-commentary for LUTV, and said Gray was in tears as Harry came on: “Great. Tearful Eddie Gray watching on. It’s lovely to see, wonderful.”
Michael Bridges’ instant reaction to Harry Gray making debut
Speaking immediately after full-time, former Leeds striker Michael Bridges also commented on teen Gray making his debut for Leeds. The Elland Road icon said Gray deserved his debut given his U21 form.
He told LUTV: “He’s earned the right to be there, but for him to get on – he will be pinching himself. Another Gray that leaves a legacy at this club, and lovely to see Eddie shedding a tear in the stands.”
All eyes now turn to Turf Moor where Sheffield United will need to win against Burnley to stop Leeds from being confirmed as a Premier League club next season. A tall order, especially after that 6-0 Leeds win.
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