The 1927-28 season marked a pivotal year for Leeds United as they sought redemption and a swift return to Division One following their relegation from the top flight. Under the guidance of Dick Ray, the club achieved a remarkable season in Division Two, securing promotion with a stunning performance that saw them finish second in the league. This article delves into the details of Leeds United’s exceptional season, exploring the key figures, managerial changes, and pivotal moments that defined their journey.
Rebuilding After Relegation
The Relegation and Managerial Change
After a brief foray into Division One, Leeds United found themselves relegated at the end of the 1926-27 season. This demotion was a significant setback, leading to the resignation of manager Arthur Fairclough. The Leeds board, keen on an immediate return to the top tier, sought a manager who could turn their fortunes around quickly.
The Return of Dick Ray
Dick Ray was appointed as the new manager, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep connection with Elland Road. Ray had a long history with the club, beginning as a player in 1905 and later serving as an assistant manager. His familiarity with the club’s culture and his previous successes made him the ideal candidate to guide Leeds United back to Division One.
Squad Overview and Key Players
Strong Foundations Left by Fairclough
Despite the relegation, Fairclough had left behind a solid team. Jimmy Potts, who had been a consistent presence throughout the previous season, continued to shine as United’s reliable goalkeeper. The half-back line, featuring Willis Edwards, Tom Townsley, and George Reed, provided a strong defensive backbone. Up front, Tom Jennings and Russell Wainscoat posed a significant threat to opposing defenses.
The Impact of John White
One of Fairclough’s notable acquisitions was Scottish international John White, who had been signed for a substantial £5,600. Although White took time to adjust to English football, his presence was pivotal. Despite an offer from Sheffield United to buy White for £6,000, the Leeds board decided to retain him, recognizing his potential to become a star player.
New Additions Under Dick Ray
Ray made several strategic moves to strengthen the squad, including the addition of forwards Charlie Keetley and Joe Firth. These signings, along with the future-focused acquisitions of Alex Stacey and George Milburn, bolstered the team’s depth and competitiveness.
The 1927-28 Division Two Campaign
A Stellar Performance
The 1927-28 season saw Leeds United excel in Division Two, demonstrating their determination and skill. The team finished in second place, amassing 57 points—just two points behind league champions Manchester City. This impressive performance ensured Leeds United’s promotion back to Division One.
Key Matches and Moments
Throughout the season, Leeds United displayed remarkable consistency and resilience. Key victories and solid performances against their rivals contributed to their successful campaign. The team’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity were crucial factors in their near-miss for the title.
Conclusion
The 1927-28 season was a defining moment in Leeds United’s history. Under Dick Ray’s management, the club not only bounced back from relegation but also came close to securing the Division Two title. With a combination of experienced players and strategic new signings, Leeds United laid a strong foundation for their future in Division One. This season remains a testament to the club’s resilience and ability to overcome challenges, setting the stage for their continued success in the years to come.
By closely examining this remarkable season, we gain insight into the factors that contributed to Leeds United’s resurgence and their return to the top flight of English football.
Third Division North Standings – 1927-28
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GR | Pts | Qualification or Relegation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bradford Park Avenue | 42 | 27 | 9 | 6 | 101 | 45 | 2.244 | 63 | Promoted to the Second Division |
| 2 | Lincoln City | 42 | 24 | 7 | 11 | 91 | 64 | 1.422 | 55 | |
| 3 | Stockport County | 42 | 23 | 8 | 11 | 89 | 51 | 1.745 | 54 | |
| 4 | Doncaster Rovers | 42 | 23 | 7 | 12 | 80 | 44 | 1.818 | 53 | |
| 5 | Tranmere Rovers | 42 | 22 | 9 | 11 | 105 | 72 | 1.458 | 53 | |
| 6 | Bradford City | 42 | 18 | 12 | 12 | 85 | 60 | 1.417 | 48 | |
| 7 | Darlington | 42 | 21 | 5 | 16 | 89 | 74 | 1.203 | 47 | |
| 8 | Southport | 42 | 20 | 5 | 17 | 79 | 70 | 1.129 | 45 | |
| 9 | Accrington Stanley | 42 | 18 | 8 | 16 | 76 | 67 | 1.134 | 44 | |
| 10 | New Brighton | 42 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 72 | 62 | 1.161 | 42 | |
| 11 | Wrexham | 42 | 18 | 6 | 18 | 64 | 67 | 0.955 | 42 | |
| 12 | Halifax Town | 42 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 73 | 71 | 1.028 | 41 | |
| 13 | Rochdale | 42 | 17 | 7 | 18 | 74 | 77 | 0.961 | 41 | |
| 14 | Rotherham United | 42 | 14 | 11 | 17 | 65 | 69 | 0.942 | 39 | |
| 15 | Hartlepools United | 42 | 16 | 6 | 20 | 69 | 81 | 0.852 | 38 | |
| 16 | Chesterfield | 42 | 13 | 10 | 19 | 71 | 78 | 0.910 | 36 | |
| 17 | Crewe Alexandra | 42 | 12 | 10 | 20 | 77 | 86 | 0.895 | 34 | |
| 18 | Ashington | 42 | 11 | 11 | 20 | 77 | 103 | 0.748 | 33 | |
| 19 | Barrow | 42 | 10 | 11 | 21 | 54 | 102 | 0.529 | 31 | |
| 20 | Wigan Borough | 42 | 10 | 10 | 22 | 56 | 97 | 0.577 | 30 | |
| 21 | Durham City | 42 | 11 | 7 | 24 | 53 | 100 | 0.530 | 29 | Not Re-elected |
| 22 | Nelson | 42 | 10 | 6 | 26 | 76 | 136 | 0.559 | 26 | Re-elected |
Leeds United 1927-28 Season Results
| Date | Match | Result | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Aug 1927 | South Shields AFC v Leeds United | W | 1-5 | League Division Two |
| 29 Aug 1927 | Leeds United v Barnsley | D | 2-2 | League Division Two |
| 03 Sep 1927 | Leeds United v Southampton | W | 2-0 | League Division Two |
| 10 Sep 1927 | Leeds United v Nottingham Forest | W | 4-0 | League Division Two |
| 17 Sep 1927 | Manchester City v Leeds United | L | 2-1 | League Division Two |
| 24 Sep 1927 | Leeds United v Hull City | W | 2-0 | League Division Two |
| 26 Sep 1927 | Barnsley v Leeds United | L | 2-1 | League Division Two |
| 01 Oct 1927 | Preston North End v Leeds United | L | 5-1 | League Division Two |
| 08 Oct 1927 | Leeds United v Swansea Town | W | 5-0 | League Division Two |
| 15 Oct 1927 | Fulham v Leeds United | D | 1-1 | League Division Two |
| 22 Oct 1927 | Grimsby Town v Leeds United | L | 3-2 | League Division Two |
| 29 Oct 1927 | Leeds United v Oldham Athletic | W | 1-0 | League Division Two |
| 05 Nov 1927 | Notts County v Leeds United | D | 2-2 | League Division Two |
| 12 Nov 1927 | Leeds United v Reading | W | 6-2 | League Division Two |
| 19 Nov 1927 | Blackpool v Leeds United | W | 0-2 | League Division Two |
| 26 Nov 1927 | Leeds United v West Bromwich Albion | L | 1-2 | League Division Two |
| 03 Dec 1927 | Leyton Orient v Leeds United | L | 2-1 | League Division Two |
| 10 Dec 1927 | Leeds United v Chelsea | W | 5-0 | League Division Two |
| 17 Dec 1927 | Bristol City v Leeds United | W | 1-2 | League Division Two |
| 24 Dec 1927 | Leeds United v Stoke City | W | 5-1 | League Division Two |
| 26 Dec 1927 | Port Vale v Leeds United | W | 1-2 | League Division Two |
| 27 Dec 1927 | Leeds United v Port Vale | W | 3-0 | League Division Two |
| 31 Dec 1927 | Leeds United v South Shields AFC | W | 3-0 | League Division Two |
| 07 Jan 1928 | Southampton v Leeds United | W | 1-4 | League Division Two |
| 14 Jan 1928 | Manchester City v Leeds United | L | 1-0 | FA Cup |
| 21 Jan 1928 | Nottingham Forest v Leeds United | D | 2-2 | League Division Two |
| 28 Jan 1928 | Leeds United v Bristol City | W | 3-2 | League Division Two |
| 04 Feb 1928 | Hull City v Leeds United | L | 3-1 | League Division Two |
| 11 Feb 1928 | Leeds United v Preston North End | L | 2-4 | League Division Two |
| 18 Feb 1928 | Swansea Town v Leeds United | D | 1-1 | League Division Two |
| 25 Feb 1928 | Leeds United v Fulham | W | 2-1 | League Division Two |
| 03 Mar 1928 | Leeds United v Grimsby Town | D | 0-0 | League Division Two |
| 10 Mar 1928 | Oldham Athletic v Leeds United | W | 0-1 | League Division Two |
| 17 Mar 1928 | Leeds United v Notts County | W | 6-0 | League Division Two |
| 24 Mar 1928 | Reading v Leeds United | W | 0-1 | League Division Two |
| 31 Mar 1928 | Leeds United v Blackpool | W | 4-0 | League Division Two |
| 07 Apr 1928 | West Bromwich Albion v Leeds United | W | 0-1 | League Division Two |
| 09 Apr 1928 | Wolverhampton Wanderers v Leeds United | D | 0-0 | League Division Two |
| 10 Apr 1928 | Leeds United v Wolverhampton Wanderers | W | 3-0 | League Division Two |
| 14 Apr 1928 | Leeds United v Leyton Orient | W | 4-0 | League Division Two |
| 21 Apr 1928 | Chelsea v Leeds United | W | 2-3 | League Division Two |
| 25 Apr 1928 | Leeds United v Manchester City | L | 0-1 | League Division Two |
| 05 May 1928 | Stoke City v Leeds United | L | 5-1 | League Division Two |
