Leeds fans proud despite Wembley heartache after FA Cup semi-final loss | OneFootball

Leeds United’s first FA Cup semi-final for 39 years ended in a 1-0 Wembley defeat to Chelsea, leaving pride mingled with heartache across the city.

Enzo Fernandez struck with a first-half header, sending Chelsea to a final against Manchester City. According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, thousands travelled south while city-centre fanzones thrummed in Leeds.

At the O2 Academy fanzone, supporters said they sang until the end, praising a raucous atmosphere despite the scoreline. Many felt the cup run had lifted the city.

Some fans who met only today spoke of loving this team, calling the defeat a real blip and insisting they would come again. Others joked the football gods had deserted them.

Merchandise trader Woody, a Leeds fan since the 1980s whose granddad was Don Revie’s chauffeur, spent the afternoon selling scarves, hats and pins. He felt the run has boosted confidence in the league.

At the Moot Hall Arms, long-time followers described being excited and nervous, yet mainly proud of reaching this stage. For many, the achievement felt massive.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk