Neil Warnock: 'It was a great cup tie'

Leeds United manager Neil Warnock has chosen to take the positives from his side's 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Chelsea.

The Whites boss described the evening as a "great cup tie" and praised the club's players and supporters.

"If Tom Lees's header goes in, it will be different game. To concede so early, you will be in trouble," BBC Sport quotes Warnock as saying.

"They took over and we could not cope. I am pleased with the lads and the crowd were fantastic.

"It should be like this every week. When we scored, I have never heard anything like it. I have no complaints."

Warnock went on to say that conceding early in the second half was his side's downfall. He also praised the officials and his opposite number Rafael Benitez.

"It was disappointing to concede so early. We played some good football tonight, it was a great cup-tie and the officials were super.

"If it was not for Rafa, I would not have had such a good time at Crystal Palace, QPR and Leeds United, so I owe him really."

Goals from Juan Mata, Branislav Ivanovic, Victor Moses, Eden Hazard and Fernando Torres sent Chelsea through to the last four after Luciano Becchio had put Leeds in front.