02-03-40: York City (h) 7-0 (HT 3-0) Crowd (1,500)

Match Report: Yorkshire Post 4th March 1940

Stephens Scores "Hat-Trick" in First Game for United

After such a long interval without football, the limited interest shown in League clubs was disappointing. Nevertheless, players and officials alike were satisfied merely to get going again, and there was no lack of clever, zestful football. Playing their first game at home since before Christmas, Leeds United were much too good for their visitors in a friendly match, York City, and won by 7 goals to none. The victory was a tribute to the soundness of the Leeds club's policy of giving their own young players a chance, and the five who were on leave from Army and Air Force units were extraordinarily fit. Leading the United first team attack for the first time, Stephens well maintained the scoring reputation he has been creating while on loan to Hartlepools United, and obtained three of the goals. He was also responsible for a fourth, taking the ball out to the right wing and centring to Henry, who had crossed into the middle. Stephens is very quick on the ball, and his alertness in going for an opening frequently surprised Hawklns, the York centre-half. The Leeds centre would have been even more successful but for some skilful covering up by Pinder. McGraw opened the scoring in ten minutes, and with strong bursts of speed, was frequently dangerous. Powell, who since he joined the Army looks fitter than ever before, scored the best goal of the seven, with a flashing shot from fifteen yards, while Stephens opened his account just before the interval. Two goals each by Stephens and Henry and exciting attacks by York gave the crowd of 2,000 full value for money in the second half.