Bristol City manager Liam Manning guided his team to a hard-earned draw against a strong Leeds United side in his emotional return to the touchline at Ashton Gate, following the loss of his baby son, Theo.
Having missed the Robins’ previous two matches, Manning was met with an outpouring of support from fans.
A minute’s applause was held before kick-off in honor of Theo, with supporters displaying the words “fly high” in tribute.
Bristol City began with a promising start, and goalkeeper Max O’Leary made two critical saves, denying both Willy Gnonto and Dan James from giving Leeds the lead before halftime.
After the break, when Gnonto’s shot seemed destined for the net, Zak Vyner was in place to clear off the line, securing a point for the Robins.
Manning, 39, had expressed deep gratitude to fans for their “truly overwhelming” support on the eve of the match.
During his absence, Bristol City extended their unbeaten streak to six games with a win against Middlesbrough and a draw with Stoke, and they continued their resilient form by preventing Leeds from moving to the top of the Championship table.
Bristol City created more promising early chances, with Yu Hirakawa showing particular skill and Luke McNally narrowly missing with an acrobatic attempt.
Leeds struggled to create opportunities, although Jayden Bogle’s header into the side netting in the 34th minute offered a glimpse of threat.
O’Leary was called into action again by Gnonto and James, the latter making his first start since recovering from a hamstring injury.
O’Leary’s rush off the line to thwart James’ chipped shot was the highlight of his performance. Vyner then blocked Gnonto’s chance off a cutback from James in the second half, preserving the scoreline.
Leeds substitute Mateo Joseph had a chance to score with his first touch after coming on, but his header missed the target.
Bristol City ended the match with a hard-won point, although concerns linger over Ross McCrorie, who went off injured after recently returning to the lineup.