The 1922-23 season for Leeds United was marked by a notable level of consistency and growing optimism. After finishing 8th the previous year, Leeds United improved their standings to 7th place in the Second Division, with 47 points, 43 goals scored, and 36 goals conceded. This slight but meaningful advancement in position highlighted the team’s steady progress and set the stage for future aspirations.
Season Overview
Leeds United’s 1922-23 season was characterized by solid performance and defensive stability. The team’s improved standings reflected their consistent efforts throughout the season. Although the club didn’t achieve promotion, their performance provided a strong foundation for future success and demonstrated their potential for the seasons ahead.
Defensive Strength and Key Players
A key aspect of Leeds United’s season was their impressive defensive record. The combination of experienced and emerging talents ensured a well-organized backline, contributing significantly to their overall performance.
- Jim Baker (Captain): Baker’s leadership and defensive skills were pivotal in maintaining the team’s solidity at the back.
- Ernie Hart: As one of the earliest finds for Leeds United, Hart’s development into a skilled and tenacious defender was a cornerstone of the team’s defensive strength. His contributions continued to be a key factor in the team’s stability.
- Fred Whalley (Goalkeeper): Whalley remained a dependable presence in goal, effectively managing the defensive duties and contributing to a strong defensive record.
- Full-Backs Duffield and Frew: These players provided essential support in defense, helping to cover the flanks and complement the central defensive pairing.
- Harry Sherwin (Right-Half): Sherwin’s role in the midfield was crucial for both defensive coverage and supporting attacking plays.
Jack Swan, the center-forward, continued to be a vital part of Leeds United’s attack, maintaining his position from the previous season. His goal-scoring ability remained a key asset for the team.
Leeds United top goal scorer 1922-23 season.
Percy Whipp was the goalscorer for the team of Leeds back in 1922-23 season.
Key Changes and Departures
A notable change during the season was the departure of Tommy Howarth to Bristol Rovers in November 1922. Despite this loss, the core of the squad remained intact, allowing Leeds United to continue their strong performance throughout the season.
Season Summary and Future Outlook
Leeds United’s performance in the 1922-23 season, finishing 7th with 47 points, a goal tally of 43 scored and 36 conceded, reflected their ongoing improvement and consistency. The team’s defensive solidity, driven by key players like Baker and Hart, and the continued contribution of Jack Swan provided a hopeful outlook for the future.
While the season did not result in promotion, the progress made and the stable foundation set the stage for future ambitions. Leeds United’s fans and management were optimistic that with the squad’s consistency and the strong defensive framework, the team would be well-positioned to achieve promotion in the upcoming seasons.
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GR | Pts | Qualification or Relegation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Notts County | 42 | 23 | 7 | 12 | 46 | 34 | 1.353 | 53 | Promoted to the First Division |
| 2 | West Ham United | 42 | 20 | 11 | 11 | 63 | 38 | 1.658 | 51 | |
| 3 | Leicester City | 42 | 21 | 9 | 12 | 65 | 44 | 1.477 | 51 | |
| 4 | Manchester United | 42 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 51 | 36 | 1.417 | 48 | |
| 5 | Blackpool | 42 | 18 | 11 | 13 | 60 | 43 | 1.395 | 47 | |
| 6 | Bury | 42 | 18 | 11 | 13 | 55 | 46 | 1.196 | 47 | |
| 7 | Leeds United | 42 | 18 | 11 | 13 | 43 | 36 | 1.194 | 47 | |
| 8 | The Wednesday | 42 | 17 | 12 | 13 | 54 | 47 | 1.149 | 46 | |
| 9 | Barnsley | 42 | 17 | 11 | 14 | 62 | 51 | 1.216 | 45 | |
| 10 | Fulham | 42 | 16 | 12 | 14 | 43 | 32 | 1.344 | 44 | |
| 11 | Southampton | 42 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 40 | 40 | 1.000 | 42 | |
| 12 | Hull City | 42 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 43 | 45 | 0.956 | 42 | |
| 13 | South Shields | 42 | 15 | 10 | 17 | 35 | 44 | 0.795 | 40 | |
| 14 | Derby County | 42 | 14 | 11 | 17 | 46 | 50 | 0.920 | 39 | |
| 15 | Bradford City | 42 | 12 | 13 | 17 | 41 | 45 | 0.911 | 37 | |
| 16 | Crystal Palace | 42 | 13 | 11 | 18 | 54 | 62 | 0.871 | 37 | |
| 17 | Port Vale | 42 | 14 | 9 | 19 | 39 | 51 | 0.765 | 37 | |
| 18 | Coventry City | 42 | 15 | 7 | 20 | 46 | 63 | 0.730 | 37 | |
| 19 | Clapton Orient | 42 | 12 | 12 | 18 | 40 | 50 | 0.800 | 36 | |
| 20 | Stockport County | 42 | 14 | 8 | 20 | 43 | 58 | 0.741 | 36 | |
| 21 | Rotherham County | 42 | 13 | 9 | 20 | 44 | 63 | 0.698 | 35 | Relegated to the Third Division North |
