Scott Gardner: We have made big steps | OneFootball

Leeds United Under-21s were beaten in the dying seconds of an entertaining, if not frustrating, Premier League 2 clash away at Crystal Palace.

Having fought from two goals behind to level proceedings, a last-gasp winner for the Eagles saw Scott Gardner’s side come away empty handed.

Despite the result, the boss was full of praise for his team’s performance and looked ahead to Thursday’s International Premier League Cup meeting with Sporting CP.

“It was disappointing to lose to a set play right at the death but for the majority of the game, I thought we were the better side, barring the first 10 to 15 minutes,” he explained.

“After that, I thought we were very good. I think we have made big steps since the start of the season so I was pleased with that.

“The game, the performance overall, minus the last 30 seconds and in the first 15 minutes, we were pretty dominant. Our performances are team-based and that gives the platform for individuals to stand out.

“It is just a learning moment. You lose your composure a little bit at the end when things start to get a little bit hectic.

“That is where we maybe lose a little bit of focus for the corner but other than that, I can’t fault them.

“We will see who we have got available for Thursday and we will make the most of it and try to put on a good show.”