Phillips strikes late to send Leeds top in Championship

LONDON: Winger Jack Clarke was taken to hospital as Kalvin Phillips’ header in the 11th minute of added time salvaged a 1-1 draw for Leeds United at Middlesbrough to send them to the top of the second tier Championship yesterday.

The huge amount of injury time was due to Leeds’ highly-rated 18-year-old Clarke being taken ill and after undergoing medical attention was stretchered off while being given oxygen and taken to hospital.

“What we know is that he didn’t feel well,” Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa said. “We don’t know the reasons yet. But when he was taken to the dressing room he was better. He was taken to hospital to see if he is alright.”

Leeds later issued a statement reassuring fans about Clarke, who had been taken off at half-time. “The player is responsive and attending hospital with the club’s head of medicine and performance. “On behalf of everyone at Leeds United, we would like to thank the medical staff from both clubs for their response to the incident.”

The draw sends Bielsa’s side a point clear of Norwich at the top though the Canaries can reclaim that position if they beat East Anglian rivals bottom-placed Ipswich Town today. Sheffield United lie in third position-three points off Leeds-after missing a golden opportunity of going top themselves surrendering a 3-0 lead on Friday to be held 3-3 by Aston Villa.

‘Boro had taken the lead through Lewis Wing two minutes into the second-half, slotting home from George Friend’s cut-back. Leeds-who have had a poor run of late losing four of their last six matches coming into Saturday’s game-should have levelled in the 71st minute.

Patrick Bamford returning to his former clubfor whom he scored a hat-trick against Leeds last year-fired wide from four yards out with the goal gaping. Middlesbrough’s Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph also kept the hosts noses in front with some stunning saves, thwarting Kemar Roofe twice. — AFP