Leeds United have moved to the top of the Championship table after a 1-0 victory over Sheffield United, with a howler from Dean Henderson handing them all three points.
It was a hard-fought game between the two Yorkshire sides, both of whom hold genuine promotion hopes this season. A win for Sheffield United would have moved them above their local rivals in the the table, but it was Leeds who emerged victorious.
The game's decisive moment came in the 82nd minute. Sheffield goalkeeper Dean Henderson received a pass from his defender, and seemingly had plenty of time to clear his lines. He then proceeded to make an absolute mess of the situation, with Pablo Hernandez on hand to capitalise on the error.
LEEDS LEAD
Horror moment for Sheffield United 'keeper Henderson as gifts Leeds possession and Hernandez knocks in to an empty net.
Watch the Yorkshire derby live on Sky Sports Football or follow here: https://t.co/vOm8OXPSee pic.twitter.com/nLwhMYbtlA— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 1, 2018
Sheffield United hit the bar late on with an acrobatic effort from Conor Washington, but the game would ultimately finish on a 1-0 scoreline.
It was a disastrous error which decided a feisty derby clash, with the referee the centre of attention. He made a number of contentious decisions throughout the game, with the home side incredibly lucky to finish the game with 11 men on the pitch.
Republic of Ireland international David McGoldrick should received a straight red for a wild challenge in the opening period, while fellow countryman Enda Stevens was fortunate not to receive a second yellow card after a clear trip went unpunished just a few moments later.
Despite his early indiscretion, McGoldrick performed well. He nearly found the back of the net on a couple of occasions, and has been in good form throughout the current campaign. With his former club boss Mick McCarthy being appointed as Ireland manager, he will hope an international call-up could be on the horizon.
For Leeds, this game is the latest example of their promotion credentials. After a flying start to the season, their form suffered a bit of a dip, with a 4-1 defeat to West From earlier this month a real setback. They have recovered wonderfully since then however, with today's win their third on the bounce.
