Leeds play-off set for sell-out

10:29am Friday 9th May 2008

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ELLAND Road is heading for a sell-out for Leeds United's Coca-Cola League One play-off semi-final, first leg against Carlisle on Monday.

Demand for tickets has jammed the club's online booking system as the Whites seek a place in the Wembley final and a return to the Championship.

United's players are eager for a repeat of the atmosphere they experienced during their 2-1 victory over Gillingham last weekend.

A crowd of more than 38,000 packed into Elland Road and midfielder Andrew Hughes said: "It was a great spectacle. It takes your breath away when it's like that.

"I was honoured to be on the pitch in front of those fans, but that is Leeds United Football Club.

"There's no experience like that. I've been at different clubs and experienced different fans, but you can't find the words to describe what it was like on Saturday.

"We need to do them proud now and do it for ourselves."

The second leg will be held at Bruton Park on Thursday, and Hughes is wary of the Cumbrians' home record.

"They have a fantastic home record and we have to go there and try and get a result," said Hughes.

Meanwhile, Hughes is hoping a strong personal performance in the play-offs can increase his standing at the club.

"I've still got to prove myself at the club and to the fans," he said. "Hopefully, they'll say I've done okay to that end so far, but we've got to get this club up now.

"I'm really looking forward to (the play-offs) but, having said that, I've looked forward to every game since the Tranmere game. I just love being at the club."