City simply had to avoid defeat away to Leeds to retain our crown, but goals from Kayky, Cole Palmer and Liam Delap instead secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory.
It was just rewards for our EDS, who dug deep to extend our unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions and claim the trophy with one game to spare.
Asked for his reflections on our title triumph, Barry-Murphy expressed his personal pride in the development he has seen from his players over the course of the season.
“I don’t use the word ‘privileged’ lightly, it’s been amazing for me,” our EDS boss explained.
“I have always had an exceptionally strong belief that development can go hand in hand with winning and if we are developing players, people and staff then we’re winning anyway.
“To see the results of that come to fruition is very satisfying and rewarding and gives the players that extra boost.
“They know that if they’re continually focusing on improving every aspect of their game and themselves, then the results will be inevitable.
“It’s given me a great lift to be involved with the whole group really.”
Over 21,000 fans witnessed City secured the title at Elland Road, a record crowd for a PL2 fixture.
Backed by a vocal home support, Leeds took an early lead through Matteo Joseph and continued to generate a lively atmosphere even after Brian Barry-Murphy’s youngsters had got our noses in front.
And the EDS boss believes the manner in which his side weathered the storm is testament to the determination they have shown throughout the campaign, providing yet another valuable learning experience.
He said: “Trying to put into practice of what we’ve learned over the course of the season in terms of tough experiences has been a real theme of what we’ve gone through.
“There’s a lot to be taken from having the supporters here in such numbers for what it provided for the players.
“Some of the players were referencing what it was like for the first team to go to Atletico Madrid and play that game.
“All of these things that can bear some resemblance to what the first team guys do is priceless learning to our players.
“To see them come through in flying colours and perform so well in a different way and be so resilient was testament to the character they’ve shown all season.”
