Leeds United Under-21s began their National League Cup campaign away at Boreham Wood, which was an encounter that put the previous two winners of the competition up against each other.

A difficult first half meant Scott Gardner’s side were trailing by five goals at half-time, but a strong reaction and second half showing saw the deficit reduced, in the overall 5-2 scoreline at Meadow Park.

Speaking to leedsunited.com after the game, Gardner gave his thoughts on the performance.

“We got punished by a ruthless side in the first half,” the U21s coach began, when summarising the match.

“Overall there was a lot of good play in the first half and we were creating some moments. But that's just why we're in this competition, because you're playing against players who want to win and they are here to go and win the tournament.

“I expected that reaction [in the second half] because I know the group, and I was pretty calm at half-time. I knew they would give me something in the second half, and they did.

“So I'm really pleased with that reaction. But I'm not disappointed necessarily with the first half, there’s a couple of moments that we can work on after a few errors.

“I think all players in the squad will have opportunities at different times, whether they're starting or coming on, and they have to show something that makes us want to play them every week.

“That is the reality of playing in a first team, so that's a lesson for everybody as well.”