Planet Swans ArchivesCarlisle defeated the odds to take a 2-1 advantage back to Brunton Park for the second leg after a famous victory against the favourites for promotion. And it could have been better for the Cumbrians – Leeds had to be thankful to Dougie Freedman for his last minute goal which gave Leeds some hope of a Wembley appearance.
Over 36,000 crammed into Elland Road for the game where the winners over the two legs will face either Southend or Doncaster for the right to join Swansea and Forest in next season's Championship.
Goals from Graham – a deflected effort and Bridge-Wilkinson – a side foot from Horwood's low cross had placed Carlisle in the driving seat.
After the game victorious manager John Wards said "We've come to Leeds with a 40,000 crowd baying for blood and have stood up to it exceptionally well.
"Not only that but we have played some good football. Both teams have tried to attack, go forward and provide entertainment as well as try to win.
"I've got to be happy with a goal lead as things could be a lot worse."
Opposite number Gary McAllister was under no doubt that the late goal could change the look of the tie totally "It (Freedman's goal) keeps us in the tie.
"The goal just puts a different picture on the game.
"I've got to applaud my players for their effort. They kept going way past the 90 minutes."
The second leg takes place this Thursday with the final at Wembley on 25 May
