Huddersfield v Leeds: Honest Mowatt hopes wonder goal can galvanize his form

Billy Sharp’s last-gasp winner at Huddersfield – and subsequent leap into the celebrating fans behind the same goal – was one that gave United a first league double over their West Yorkshire neighbours since before the Second World War.

No wonder, therefore, Alex Mowatt remembers the moment well as he today prepares to try and repeat his own goal-scoring heroics of midweek.

“I love derby matches,” said the 20-year-old. “I have always liked them. They are more high tempo than usual games and the tackles are flying. The fans seem to like them a lot more as well.

“At Huddersfield, we always have that full end and it is great, as the atmosphere the fans create is brilliant. I remember last season really well and Billy jumping in (to the away end) after getting the winner. I might do the same if I do the same!”

Mowatt will certainly go into this lunchtime’s derby on a high after the stunning strike that was enough to beat Cardiff City in midweek.

The midfielder rated his left-footed strike from 25 yards as “probably the best of my career” and is hoping that it can improve not only his own faltering campaign but that of the team.

“All the boys were buzzing after Cardiff,” added Mowatt, whose strike helped end an eight-month wait for a home win. “It felt so good to finally get that home win and to see the fans so happy. Now, we have to back it up.”

On his own form, Mowatt added: “The season has been something I have found difficult. It hasn’t been the form I had been hoping to hit. But I have that first goal now and, hopefully, I can start to get back to my better form.

“And a bit more like I was last year.”