Leeds are backing young left back Shane Lowry to pass a test of character after his nightmare experience at Carlisle on Tuesday night.

Lowry, 20, was attacked from behind during a pitch invasion by Carlisle fans after his spot-kick was saved in the penalty shoot-out.

The youngster, on loan from Aston Villa, was distraught at having the penalty saved as Carlisle won the shoot-out 6-5 to reach the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final at Wembley.

Leeds have made an official complaint to the Football Association, claiming three of their players were attacked and goalkeeper Casper Ankergren was pelted by missiles thrown from the crowd.

Lowry is set to face Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road tomorrow and United assistant manager Ian Miller said: “Shane is a tough Aussie.

“Obviously he was upset after the game, as we all were because we wanted to get to the final. We lost on penalties but you move on from things like that and he’ll be okay.

“What happened after the game was unfortunate. We have made a complaint to the Football Association because the safety of players is paramount.”

United will look to record their first away league win in 2010 tomorrow and Miller said: “We have to remember we won the game at Carlisle but lost the tie on penalties, which are a lottery.

“We’ve scored five goals in our last two away games and have a strong squad of players with a good mentality.

“Now we have an 18-match season left to achieve our aim of promotion. Winning the League One championship would be nice but all we are talking about is promotion.”

Jermaine Beckford, who missed the Carlisle game with a tight hamstring, was travelling south with the rest of the squad today.

A decision on his fitness will be delayed until match-day but Patrick Kisnorbo’s calf injury keeps him out.

Goalkeeper David Martin has returned to parent club Liverpool after a loan spell, so Alan Martin will be on the bench despite being sent off in midweek for the reserves. He misses the next reserve game through suspension.

Tresor Kandol is expected to resume training next week after a prolonged absence with a hamstring injury and family problems.