Leeds Carnegie boss Diccon Edwards has praised his players for overcoming Championship leaders Newcastle Falcons on Monday.
Leeds, who were relegated from the Aviva Premiership in 2011, will take a 24-19 lead into the second leg of their RFU Championship semi-final.
Edwards told the club's official website: "I am very proud of the team and the way they performed. The crowd were fantastic for us, they really lifted the team.
"We have got a tremendous, loyal supporter base and they have had a tough year this season for a number of reasons but they have stuck by the players and this is a great reward for them.
"We are only at half time in the tie but we are in a good situation."
The second leg will take place on May 12.
