The rain and an enormous police operation helped in the battle to keep order at Sunday’s much-anticipated clash
There was a deluge in Leeds on Sunday. From the stands of Elland Road any number of objects rained down: coins, bottles, lighters, fireworks, in one instance even a golf ball. They came down at moments of maximum excitement and disappointment, of tension and frustration. Frequently, they were aimed at the players of Manchester United.
The 19-year-old forward Anthony Elanga was hit by what appeared to be a coin after celebrating Manchester United’s third goal in the 70th minute. He dropped to his haunches, before being cajoled back into play by his teammates. He went on to score the decisive goal in the match and ran straight over to the corner of the ground where he had been assaulted to celebrate.
Above: Manchester United’s Anthony Elanga is pictured on his knees after being struck by a missile. Right: A steward retrieves a golf ball from the pitch earlier in the match. Below: Elanga scoring the winner and celebrating at the end of the game. Photographs by Tom Jenkins.
