Slick Nick watches on as Ed's stars so out of Toon

NEW STRIKER FORCED TO ENDURE DRAB DRAW

- Ross Heppenstall

HONOURS ended even on a filthy evening when both sides were looking to make a point.

After a blood-andthunder battle which at times was more thud and blunder, that is exactly what Leeds and Newcastle got.

Genuine goalscoring chances were scarce throughout with wantaway Newcastle striker Alexander Isak again nowhere to be seen and new club-record signing Nick Woltemade watching on from the stands.

But for Leeds the result stretched their unbeaten league run at Elland Road to 22 games and could prove precious in their quest for survival.

"Are you ready to do what your best at, raise the roof and welcome Newcastle and your Leeds United!" roared the stadium announcer as the teams emerged. He need not have bothered.

Leeds fans hardly need asking to create an atmosphere - and the 5.30pm kick-off merely allowed a few more gallons of alcohol to slip down willing throats beforehand.

The Leeds anthem, Marching on Together, was belted out with remarkable gusto while the travelling Toon Army played their part on a rainlashed, windswept evening.