Before they head to north London, those present at the former Olympic Stadium will have fond tales to tell about Sunday’s experience.
Leeds sold out their entire 9,000 allocation, taking up all the space behind one of the goals and contributing to a fantastic atmosphere.
For most of the game, the Whites looked in complete control. Japan’s Ao Tanaka gave them a first-half lead, with England striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin doubling their advantage with a 75th-minute penalty that looked to have killed the game off.
But in the 11 minutes of injury time, Mateus Fernandes and Axel Disasi scored to take the tie into extra time.
Taty Castellanos and Pablo both had goals ruled out for offside by the video assistant referee (VAR) in a breathless extra-time period, where Leeds also had two shots cleared off the line.
There was added drama as Areola suffered a leg injury, meaning Herrick – who was on loan at fifth-tier Boreham Wood as recently as January – was handed a first Hammers appearance in the 120th minute and just before the shootout.
He saved from Piroe, but Perri ensured it was he who would be the goalkeeping hero with his two saves.
“This is the magic of the cup, anything can happen and today was a crazy and memorable game. Happy that we won the match and we are into the semi-finals now,” said Perri.
“For this fanbase it shows the magic of them, the love they have for this team. It is a pleasure to play for this team.”
