On January 29, 2017, Sutton United faced Leeds United in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Gander Green Lane. In a stunning upset, Sutton United, a non-league team, defeated Championship side Leeds United 1-0, advancing to the fifth round of the competition.
Key Statistics and Analysis
- Scoreline and Goal Timings:
- Sutton United: 1 (Jamie Collins 53′ (pen.))
- Leeds United: 0
- Possession:
- Leeds United had 52% possession, while Sutton United had 48%. Despite Leeds having slightly more possession, Sutton’s disciplined performance and effective counter-attacks were crucial in securing their victory.
- Shots:
- Leeds United registered 8 shots, with 2 on target, reflecting their struggle to create clear scoring opportunities against Sutton’s solid defense. Sutton United had 14 shots, with 5 on target, indicating their proactive approach and efficiency in creating chances.
- Passing Accuracy:
- Leeds displayed a passing accuracy of 75%, completing 317 passes out of 421 attempts. Sutton had a passing accuracy of 70%, completing 253 passes out of 362 attempts. The slight difference in passing accuracy did not significantly impact Sutton’s ability to execute their game plan effectively.
- Defensive Statistics:
- Sutton made 21 tackles compared to Leeds’ 17, highlighting Sutton’s aggressive approach in breaking up Leeds’ play. Sutton also committed 15 fouls compared to Leeds’ 11, reflecting their physical and determined defensive effort.
- Set Pieces:
- The only goal of the match came from a penalty awarded to Sutton United after a foul in the box. Jamie Collins converted the penalty with composure, which proved to be the decisive moment of the match.
- Individual Performances:
- Jamie Collins was the standout player for Sutton United, scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot. Goalkeeper Ross Worner also played a crucial role, making key saves to preserve Sutton’s lead. For Leeds, few players managed to stand out as the team struggled to break down Sutton’s defense.
- Tactical Overview:
- Sutton United employed a 4-4-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Leeds United used a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to control midfield and create chances through wide play. However, Sutton’s compact defense and effective pressing disrupted Leeds’ rhythm.
- Disciplinary:
- The match saw four yellow cards, all for Sutton United (Craig Eastmond 45′, Dean Beckwith 61′, Jamie Collins 67′, and Ross Stearn 84′). These fouls were largely tactical, aimed at stopping Leeds’ attacks and breaking up play.
- Corners and Offsides:
- Leeds United won 4 corners compared to Sutton’s 3, indicating their attempts to apply pressure. Leeds were caught offside twice, while Sutton had no offside calls, reflecting Sutton’s disciplined defensive line and Leeds’ efforts to find gaps.
Summary
Sutton United’s 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup fourth round was a historic and memorable upset. Jamie Collins’ penalty in the second half secured the win for the non-league side, highlighting the magic of the FA Cup. Despite Leeds having more possession and attempts to control the game, Sutton’s disciplined defensive performance and effective counter-attacks were key to their success. Goalkeeper Ross Worner’s crucial saves and the team’s overall determination and physicality ensured their place in the fifth round. Leeds, on the other hand, struggled to create clear opportunities and break down Sutton’s resolute defense, resulting in a disappointing exit from the competition.
