Sleeping giants...

The FA Cup: The premier cup competition in British football. The oldest soccer competition in the world. A tournament that can often pit the best teams in the league against semi-amateur sides and create magical upsets.

Leeds United: For decades an arch-rival to the legendary Manchester United. One of the biggest, most famous clubs in England. Financial mismanagement brought them to their knees, relegated down two full divisions beneath their true home in the Premier League now forced to play against tiny teams who draw no fans. Even in this state, still drawing 50,000 fans to their home games. Fans dreaming of a return to the greatness they once held. 

My first love.

The last bit is true. When I first started truly following soccer, Leeds were my team. I loved them and they gave so much back challenging for titles both in England and across Europe. Then the unthinkable happened. A complicated mix of financial mismanagement and poor results saw them relegated not once but twice. Forced into obscurity in a low level league, Leeds famous slogan "Marching on Together" was unofficially changed to "Not Famous Anymore" by fans. I admit, I jumped ship, found refuge in following other teams. Despite this, I never really found anything to equal my love for Leeds. One day a couple weeks ago, my love was rekindled.

Leeds were drawn against long time rivals Manchester United in the cup. They brought an unprecedented 15,000 traveling fans into Old Trafford, Man U's stadium. The fans were dreaming of past glories but were treated to a new one. Jermaine Beckford's goal saw Leeds pull off the fairy tale upset and move to the next round. Suddenly, Leeds were "famous again." 

With their name once again being a hot topic in the soccer world, Leeds were first in their division, looking to move one step closer to getting back into the big leagues. They faced another massive obstacle in Tottenham Hotspur, currently 4th in the Premier League, today in the Cup.

Down 2-1 with less than half a minute on the clock, Leeds fans were taking solace in putting forth a good effort. I, in my 2001 Leeds jersey, was dejected. 

Then Beckford was pulled down.

Leeds were given a penalty kick.

Beckford scored.

2-2.

Magical. 

A replay will be played next week back in Leeds with their chance to "march on together" arriving once more.

Even sleeping giants can sometimes awaken...