Leeds United in the early to mid-1970s was a team that struck fear and admiration into the hearts of football fans across the country. For Don Neufville, a Liverpool supporter and professional magician, Leeds United represented more than just an opposing team—they were a footballing powerhouse. Neufville’s recollections of Leeds during this period offer a unique insight into what it was like to witness their dominance firsthand, even as a rival fan.
Packed Grounds and Full Houses
Whenever Leeds United visited Merseyside to play Liverpool or Everton, it was always a massive event. Neufville recalls:
“Every time they came to Merseyside, whether to Liverpool or Everton, the games were always full houses, with the gates often closed hours before kick-off. I’ll always remember, as a young schoolboy, leaving much earlier than usual to ensure I got in.”
Even in low-scoring matches or 0-0 draws, the intensity and quality of football on display made every game feel thrilling. Neufville adds:
“One thing’s for sure: there were never many goals, but even a 0-0 draw felt like a good match.”
The Imposing Traveling Support
Leeds United’s influence wasn’t just felt on the pitch—they also had an immense traveling fan base. Neufville noted that Leeds’ traveling support was immense and rivaled by only a few teams:
“As for their traveling support, only clubs like Manchester United and Newcastle United could match their numbers.”
Leeds United’s traveling support was a testament to the loyalty and passion of their fans, creating an atmosphere that often left opposing teams on edge.
Leeds’ Swagger and Confidence
One of the things that set Leeds United apart in the 70s was their swagger. Managed by Don Revie, Leeds was a team that played with supreme confidence and unity. Neufville recalls the boldness of the team:
“The Leeds team even had the audacity to wear their names on the back of their tracksuit tops and number tags on their socks, followed by their iconic wave to the adoring Elland Road fans.”
This attention to detail and pride in their identity made Leeds stand out not only for their footballing ability but also for their attitude and connection to their fans.
Near Misses in Europe
Despite their domestic success, Neufville believes Leeds United should have secured European glory at least once during the 1970s. Reflecting on a major disappointment in 1970, Neufville says:
“When Celtic beat them in the semi-finals in front of a British record 134,000 at Hampden, that Celtic team should have gone on to win it (I know Leeds would have).”
Another painful moment for Leeds fans came in the controversial 1975 European Cup final against Bayern Munich. Neufville refers to it simply:
“And as for the Bayern Munich game, everyone knows what happened in that match.”
These near misses in Europe remain one of the greatest “what if” stories in football, leaving fans and observers alike wondering what more Leeds could have achieved.
The 7-0 Thrashing of Southampton
One of the defining moments of Leeds United’s 70s dominance came in their 7-0 demolition of Southampton at Elland Road in 1972. Neufville reflects on the match with awe:
“Even now, when you watch that clip on YouTube, they probably could have beaten even the likes of Real Madrid and AC Milan on that day!”
This performance not only showcased Leeds’ technical prowess but also demonstrated how far ahead they were compared to their domestic competition.
An Unforgettable Legacy
For Neufville, the true measure of Leeds United’s greatness in the 70s is how easily he can still name their entire starting eleven and even the substitutes. He says:
“I bet you could name their first eleven and even five subs, including the goalie, but struggle to do that with your own Premier League club in this day and age—I know I do!”
This sense of continuity and connection to the squad is something Neufville feels has been lost in modern football.
A Team That Should Have Achieved More
In Neufville’s view, Leeds United in the 1970s was one of the best teams in football history. Under Don Revie, they won two league titles, an FA Cup, and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups. However, many, including Neufville, believe they should have won much more:
“Leeds in the early to mid-70s were a great, great side and should have won a lot more, including the double in ’72, in my opinion.”
Despite those near misses, Leeds United’s legacy in the 70s is secure. They remain one of the most iconic teams of their era, a side that earned the respect of rival fans like Neufville, who can’t help but marvel at what they accomplished on the pitch.
