Leeds United : Ranking The 5 Biggest Rivals
2. Leeds United vs Chelsea
Chelsea is among the most hated rivals of Leeds United. Starting in the 1960s, Chelsea vs. Leeds was one of the most controversial fixtures in the English footballing calendar. The rivalry was dubbed “Yorkshire grit vs. flash Cockney.” This was due to Leeds being known as a “dirty” team, but Chelsea were also known for their aggression and strong tackling.
This combination of aggression and passion culminated in many fiercely contested games between the clubs. Unfortunately, this aggression made its way to the fans, resulting in a lot of hooligan activity at Chelsea vs. Leeds fixtures.
This fierce rivalry carried on for three decades, with Leeds fans naming Chelsea as their second-biggest rivals after Manchester United in a poll taken in 2003.
1. Leeds United vs Man Utd
Manchester United have an intense rivalry with Leeds United that began as early as 1906 but has its roots much further back in history. The War of the Roses in the 15th Century, fought between the House of Lancaster (the red rose) and the House of York (the white rose) created a sense of bitterness between the two areas from either side of the Pennines that has never truly disappeared.
The fact one team plays in red and the other in white (well, since 1961 anyway) only accentuates that link. It is also a fact that Manchester and Leeds were rivals for business during the Industrial Revolution during the 18th and 19th centuries, and even now compete for new companies investing in the cities.
In footballing terms, it all began with a 3-0 win for Leeds at Bank Street in Division Two, back in January 1906. The Reds gained revenge in the first outing at Elland Road a few months later, securing a 3-1 victory, but trips to the West Yorkshire ground would become ones to face with trepidation. Games between these clubs, such as this 1970 FA Cup semi-final at Hillsborough, always draw in the crowds.