A clash between the two previous winners of the National League Cup takes place at Meadow Park as we welcome Leeds United’s Under-21’s.
They will be aiming to have a much-improved campaign this time around after being eliminated in the group stages of both the Vertu Trophy and the National League Cup. They competed in Premier League 2 and finished in 25th place out of 29 teams, meaning they were unable to extend their season having failed to qualify for the play-offs.
Signing on professional terms this summer in a two-year deal, exciting attacking midfielder Sam Alker is the latest product of Leeds’ renowned academy and is expected to have a bright future ahead at Elland Road. The 17-year-old progressed into the U21’s side late last season, netting a brace in a victory over Leicester City in his first start, and is expected to play a vital role in their campaign after starring for the U18’s.
Scott Gardner is the man tasked with developing Leeds’ next crop of emerging talent and has been in the role since the start of 2024.
He began his playing career in the Whites youth ranks, penning a professional contract in the summer of 2007 before making his first-team debut in an EFL Cup clash that August. Two loan spells at Farsley Celtic followed before departing his boyhood club in 2009 as he signed for Mansfield Town where he was a regular feature in a one-and-a-half-year stint.
The Luxembourg-born defender, who also represented England’s youth sides, transitioned into management at his former club Leeds in 2012, working with their youngsters. The 38-year-old played a vital role in the development of several young stars in the U18’s before progressing to the U21’s two years ago, replacing now Bristol City boss Michael Skubala.
Tuesday will be our first clash with Leeds’ young guns.
The game kicks off at 15:00 and is not segregated.
The stadium will operate with a partial opening, with only the East Stand, East Terrace (North) and North Bank available to spectators. Entry will be via turnstiles 1 to 6.
The Glass House will open at 17:00 and can be accessed via turnstiles 3 to 6. Spectator accommodation will open at 17:30. Stadium catering will be available in the north-east corner, adjacent to The Glass House. The north-east and north-west toilets will also be open.
No supporter parking is available at the Mangata Developments Stadium Meadow Park, as the club car park is reserved for players, directors, officials and guests.
We advise supporters travelling to the stadium to park in the Brook Road public car park. The stadium can be accessed from this car park via a public footpath through the adjacent park, leading to turnstiles 1 to 6. Please note that parking charges may apply.
