Huddersfield Town 2 Leeds United 1: Wagner '˜sorry' for ugly scenes as Terriers edge out Leeds

Defender Michael Hefele scored a 90th-minute winner for Town against their Championship play-off rivals, sparking trouble on the sidelines before the final whistle.

Wagner ran down the touchline to celebrate with his players but became involved in a confrontation with Leeds head coach Garry Monk as he returned to his technical area.

That clash then sparked a melee between players from both sides near the tunnel.

When referee Simon Hooper had restored order both Wagner and Monk were sent to the stands while Liam Bridcutt, Pontus Jansson and Elias Kachunga were booked.

“It is all part of the emotion of the game but maybe this should happen with the players on the grass,” said Wagner.

“For me, celebrating with my players is not disrespectful but perhaps it is in British football culture. This culture is different in Germany.

“This game is very emotional for me and my staff. I am sorry and I apologise for what happened afterwards.”

Wagner added: “I celebrated with my players and jogged back to my technical area and Garry tried to nudge me.

“Then I went to speak to him. But this was not possible at this time. I had to go to the stands.”

Asked if he could “still be friends” with Monk, he said: “I don’t know him well enough to know that.”

Substitute Izzy Brown gave Town the lead in the 27th minute with his first touch after coming on, getting in just ahead of goalkeeper Rob Green to finish off Tommy Smith’s cross.

Leeds then levelled eight minutes later through Chris Wood’s 21st goal of the season. Kyle Bartley headed on Pablo Hernandez’s cross and Wood reacted first to score from close range.

However, Huddersfield won it late on when Aaron Mooy’s cross was deflected to Hefele to tap home.

On the game, Wagner said: “It was a fantastic performance and everybody has a big smile on his face.

“In the second half we were outstanding and we created more big opportunities.”

Monk also regretted what happened at the end of the game, saying: “I hold myself in a certain way and I have humility and respect.”

Of the result, he added: “I am not going to make excuses but we are still on the right path.

“I am very disappointed to lose a derby game against a close competitor but the game is about fine margins.

“The winning goal was a deflection and they can either go with you or not. On this occasion it went against us.

“Nothing changes for us and we stay focused. It was a very committed performance and I am very proud of the players.”