Leeds fans pay tribute to the two fans who died in Istanbul 19 years ago
Travelling supporters at St Andrews marked the anniversary of the death of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight in 2001
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LEEDS UNITED fans have paid tribute to the two supporters who were murdered in Istanbul 19 years ago.
Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight were stabbed on the eve of the Uefa Cup semi-final first leg against Galatasaray on April 5, 2001.
Whites followers have recognised each anniversary of the tragedy and this year was no different.
In the 19th minute of the Championship clash with Birmingham City at St Andrews, the 2,781 travelling faithful turned their backs on the action.
Chants of "turn your backs for Kev and Chris" could also be heard from the away end during the 60-second tribute.
A video posted via the club's official Twitter account documented the act, which was met with applause from the home fans.
On-the-field, the Blues struck a blow to Leeds' hopes of a return to the Premier League with a 1-0 courtesy of Che Adams' first-half goal to end a five-game losing run.
The result sees Marcelo Bielsa's men drop out of the automatic promotion places after Sheffield United's win at Preston.
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Twenty-four hours earlier, exactly 19 years on from the episode, fans took to social media to individually pay their respects.
Martin Sykes wrote on Twitter: "Christopher Loftus, Kevin Speight, forever Leeds, never forget, rest in peace."
Kevin Stenson added: "This weekend is all about KEV & CHRIS 19 years on never forgotten."