Hulse Power Sees Leeds United Through To Final

Last updated : 08 May 2006 By Gary Calder

Should Watford be successful in their Coca-Cola Championship Play-off Semi-Final Second Leg tomorrow evening they will face Leeds United, after second half goals by Rob Hulse and Frazer Richardson assured Kevin Blackwell's side a place in this year's Millennium Stadium showpiece on May 21.

With the aggregate score tied at one apiece following the first leg at Elland Road on Friday, the onus had been on Preston North End to dictate proceedings, but after dominating a goalless first half the Deepdale lights went out during the half time interval.

When play finally resumed following a 25 minute delay it was the visitors firmly in the ascendancy and first Hulse, with a deft header, and then Richardson a close range finish, both scored inside five minutes around the hour mark to consign the hosts to a second play-off defeat in successive years.

However, the Yorkshire side will have to make do without Stephen Crainey and Richard Cresswell in the final after both players were dismissed during the second half by over zealous referee Mr. Thorpe.

For a full match report, click here.