Huddersfield boss David Wagner apologises for touchline antics which caused ugly scenes during Leeds clash

  • David Wagner caused controversial scenes with his touchline celebrations
  • The Huddersfield boss ran the length of the line after a last gasp winner
  • Colliding with Leeds boss Garry Monk, confrontations from both sides followed
  • Wagner has apologised for the incident and said he was 'emotional' at the end

Huddersfield manager David Wagner apologised for the angry scenes which marred his side's dramatic 2-1 derby victory over Leeds, admitting emotions got the better of him.

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.

Huddersfield boss David Wagner (c) has apologised for his behaviour during the tie with Leeds

Huddersfield boss David Wagner (c) has apologised for his behaviour during the tie with Leeds

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.'

Huddersfield Town manager David Wagner (right) had a coming together with his opposite number from Leeds United, Garry Mon,k while celebrating the Terriers' late winner

Wagner (R) had a coming together with his opposite number Garry Monk while celebrating

The heated exchange has led to charges by the Football Association after a brawl ensued

The heated exchange of the two managers caused players from both sides to get involved

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.

Michael Hefele struck at the death to give Huddersfield a vital win over rivals Leeds

Michael Hefele struck at the death to give Huddersfield a vital win over rivals Leeds

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.'

The players celebrated in unison in front of their supporters following the final whistle

The players celebrated in unison in front of their supporters following the final whistle

 

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