Farke believes Leeds are writing a new chapter in their ‘special history’ | OneFootball

Daniel Farke says that his side are writing a new chapter in their “special history” after their penalty shootout win over Birmingham

Leeds looked to be going through in normal time thanks to Lukas Nmecha’s early second half strike, but a late equaliser from Patrick Roberts sent the match to extra time and penalties. Leeds would eventually win the tie 4-2 on spot kicks.

Farke was full of praise for his side’s performance, especially captain Ethan Ampadu.

“There’s always a chance to write a chapter of very special history and I don’t say it’s realistic to speak about it right now but in games like this, difficult away games, scruffy games, you have to find a way to get into the next round.

“Birmingham were the better side in the first half, no doubt about it,” he said. “But we defended everything in the end and there were some good saves by Lucas Perri.

“We changed the set-up, brought our captain, our leader – Ethan Ampadu – in and won the momentum back in the game and scored with a fantastic goal from Lukas Nmecha.”

Leeds have not reached the FA Cup quarter final stage since 2003, but now have the opportunity to do so this year if they can win their fifth round tie.

“This means a lot for us, also for our supporters,” Farke said. “We can send them back happy. In our recent history we were not too good in the FA Cup, so it’s good to go on a proper run – fifth round already.

“Such a scruffy hard fought win, sometimes these wins are the best for the spirit of the group. Lots of rotation today and also many players in the pitch that did not have that many minutes, but we were still able to find a way in this difficult away game against a Championship side in red hot form. To find a way in a scruffy game to win it is good for my team, good for my spirit and I’m delighted.

“We were always convinced that we could do it on penalties and that we have done. And Lucas Perri, again, very good in the penalty shootout and a good win for the team.”