Post by deadbat on Jul 2, 2020 22:57:38 GMT
Tufty Club Reaction below….at all the main outlets
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Match report below
The Blades finally got back to winning ways after an excellent performance saw them see of Spurs 3-1 at Bramall Lane. After the improved showing in the FA Cup, despite defeat to Arsenal, United took this on and put in a determined and organised showing. The effort was superb throughout and three lovely goals in the set up and execution saw them blow Spurs away. The visitors had a lot of the ball but actually were wasteful. Even the VAR decision went for United, although technically this was down to the ridiculous rules on handball rather than VAR stepping in unnecessarily. United have been stung many times this season so will feel that they were due on and ironically one of the most controversial decisions was in the return fixture when Lundstram’s big toe saw a goal ruled out.
The Blades playing without three key men and arguably their two best players were able to be compact without the ball, they hunted in packs and turned over the ball. When they had it, they used it much better than they had done in the previous three league games and fashioned some good moves. This was more than the more direct approach we saw in the game against the Gunners at the weekend. In the end Tottenham were well beaten despite the late consolation by Kane.
United were still without Jack O’Connell but also had to make do without John Fleck and John Lundstram. Ben Osborn came in for his first start in the Premier League and Berge started the game after a good showing in the game on Sunday when he came on. Spurs had an expensively assembled bench with Ali, Winks, Vertonghen, Ndombele and Lamela amongst those in reserve. United could only name 7 subs of the permitted 9, with injuries taking its toll and no place for Luke Freeman who had picked up a knock.
The Blades began in determined mood moving into the Spurs half and within a minute they had tested Lloris with Baldock coming inside and hitting a shot that was straight at the Spurs keeper. United were moving it about well and McGoldrick was coming off deep into midfield and linking play and him and McBurnie nearly combined. The wing backs were well advanced too. Spurs did break and win a corner and a Dier flick was just away from Sissoko at the far post.
United had been decent but when they lost it Spurs showed they could break at speed and twice they nearly got in after a Kane flick saw Son get away and then Bergwijn also found some space but Basham made a block. Spurs then had their first real effort but Kane fired well over before Sissoko hit a weak shot at Henderson when well placed.
As the drinks break came, it was a relatively even game with Spurs maybe looking the more generous when they broke but United were competing well.
A soft foul on Moura saw Kane have a free kick which he blasted into the empty Kop but United were finally able to celebrate a league goal since the restart on the half hour. It was the goal that had become United’s trademark before lockdown with the wing back and centre back well forward. Baldock fed Basham who drove into the box and pulled back for BERGE who took a touch but he was quite wide but hit a superb drilled shot right into the far corner. It was a fantastic moment for the young Norwegian with his first goal in a Blades shirt and his celebration showed his delight.
Within a minute, it seemed Spurs were instantly level. They broke through and after a lucky bounce it fell for Kane who sidestepped Basham and rolled it past a leaden footed Henderson. It was poor defending but then it seemed there was an issue in the build-up. The VAR check for handball showed that Moura who was pushed over saw the ball bounce off his hand and into the path of Kane. Technically by the rules it was a handball and VAR had little choice despite everyone criticising VAR. It was not their fault but the ridiculous rules which have helped United twice this season in this regard amidst a number going against us. The VAR team should have brought it back for a foul on Moura in the build up though as he was pushed by Berge. Kane and Mourinho looked furious. United finally had something go for them after a series of poor decisions and bad luck since the lockdown.
Norwood was booked for a poor pull back on Moura and then caught Ali with an arm soon after and was lucky not to be sent off after this moment of madness. The final moments of the half saw Spurs to continue to probe and United had to hold firm with Egan and Basham solid and Osborn working hard also. Egan made two blocks before the half time whistle.
The second half saw the Blades come out determined to keep their shape and discipline and they did this early on limiting Spurs to very few chances of note. United were just keeping a nice bank of defenders and midfielders and limiting Spurs more through the middle after the first half they had afforded a bit too much space in this area.
The work ethic from the Blades was summed up when Sissoko inexplicably kicked the ball out for a corner from half way after McBurnie had chased him down. Lamela came on for Bergwijn on 55 minutes but the best chance since the break came after great work by Berge and Baldock led to a chance for McGoldrick but he fired into the side netting despite the ‘fake’ crowd thinking it was in!
Soon after McGoldrick gave way for Mousset as United looked to stretch Spurs on the break. This half Spurs had been more probing and less dangerous on the counter as United looked to be more solid, understandably being a goal ahead.
McBurnie’s tireless hold up and efforts continued and more good work led to the important second goal. His diagonal ball fed Stevens who then fed Osborn. The wing back carried his run and the ball back to him was timed to perfection with Stevens staying onside and squaring it for MOUSSET to tap home from close range. It was a brilliantly made goal and United now had a cushion.
More good work from the industrious Osborn saw United force Spurs to cough up possession again as they became frustrated.
Ali and Ndombele came on for Aurier and Sissoko as they tried to throw men forward in an attempt to find a way back into the game. Kane had the ball in the net twice but once for offside and another for a clear foul on Egan saw them both rightly ruled out. Vertonghen came on for Davies as Spurs finally changed their shape but the second half performance from them had been poor as United kept them from creating very little at all. The Blades actually looked more dangerous on the break in an inverse of the first half for both teams in terms of style. United now had pace and Mousset was causing problems winning the ball and using his strength and pace.
On 82 minutes, the victory was all but secured. More neat football saw Norwood, Baldock and then Berge involved. Berge was superb with his touch, turn and then cross which led to MCBURNIE expertly sweeping home at the near post. It was another fantastic goal and United looked home and dry.
The final moments saw more good closing down from United as Spurs seemed to run out of ideas. McBurnie was booked for dissent after disagreeing with a foul given against him as he clashed with Lo Celso. As the game entered the final minute, United switched off and Son beat the offside trap and squared for KANE to score easily from close range. The Blades were the only Premier League team he had not scored against before tonight but this was merely a consolation. Four minutes of extra time were to be played. Kieron Freeman came on for McBurnie before Mousset showed more powerful play to win a free kick as the Blades saw things out to ensure they got the three points. United are of course now mathematically assured of another season in the top flight (not that it was in doubt) and now with three points in the bag can turn their attention to how high they can finish in the league.
United – Finally! A win, an almost complete performance some of the football, organisation, resilience and all the qualities we have shown most off the season were back. We saw glimpses on Sunday but today for most of the game I felt it was committed and we won so many loose balls, second balls and pressed Spurs all game. We moved it around when we could.
The front two (and the sub) up the top of the field were excellent and also the midfield worked hard. We started the game well but they were dangerous on the break of course and had a few chances but we scored a really well-made goal with players high up the field and link/interplay which we have not seen and Berge took it superbly. After this they did have the moment and it was a bonkers decision in terms of the rules. It should count but they have made nonsensical rules on the handball. A lot saying nothing VAR could do but rule it out but they should have gone back and given the foul at least as that was before the handball. They have all become a bit robotic but had some sympathy with the handball – that rule needs to change. We had another let off with the Norwood possible second booking but got to half time despite Spurs pace and breaking causing us problems.
Credit to Wilder as at half time we actually went deeper. That is not always a good tactic but today Spurs main threat was breaking if they beat the press. We became a bit more solid and sat back 10 yards and the midfield denied space though the middle. Too often this season (and at times first half) teams have run through us in midfield and defence but 2nd half we stiffened up in this area. Osborn and Norwood sat in front and McGoldrick and then McBurnie came and helped out. We forced them wide and they had no idea with the spaces restricted in the middle. We scored a great second goal with lovely work from a number of players with McBurnie and then Stevens/Osborn linking up so well and Mousset also getting in front of his man. After this they made changes but other than a few rightly disallowed goals not sure they created much. Egan was great at the back and then Berge and McBurnie continued their strong play. The third goal was another great goal also. Shame we gave one away at the death but 3-1 was about right over the game.
It feels fantastic to win, great to see a proper team performance and the smiles are back amongst fans and players. I was just so pleased that we did not see another loss and poor performance – we saw the glimmers of hope Sunday, even in a loss and today was another step up. Now we can relax a bit. I would not rush Fleck and O’Connell back – get them totally right even if we have to wait a few more games. We have two tough home games to come but don’t fear any of the away games particularly with Burnley up and down, Southampton the same and Leicester fading fast. I have said before a top 10 finish would be fantastic. I maintain that but now the dreams of Europe start to flicker again. For me, positions, Europe are all nice but I just wanted us to finish the season with a semblance of the team/performances we have seen this season and tonight we saw that.
A lot will say fan (like me) are being hypocritical praising tonight and saying how great we are when we slammed them for 3 poor performances but the reality is, we were great tonight and were crap in the other 3 (but have been superb all season). Not sure anyone can disagree with that. I will be honest and say I could not see where the next point was coming from after Man Utd as we looked so leggy and not the same team but that is where maybe some (including me) should have more faith in this group and Wilder but it was a night and day performance from the previous 3 league games. The reality is if we play like we did tonight then we will win more games than we lose.
In terms of players, Berge will rightly get a lot of plaudits tonight. I have been critical of him of course but the last two he has really shown a lot and I am pleased. I think a lot will say people like me should eat humble pie but I don’t see it like that – for me he was showing little and I said that. He did not look much of a player but now the last two he has stepped up and rightly get praise. Some criticised McBurnie also and I was one but he too has improved and is getting lots of plaudits. You can say somebody was poor in some games and good in others. You don’t have to say they ARE good or bad players – but you can call performances. Berge had shown little but now had. I won’t go the other way and say he is amazing and what a player as we need to see him do it regularly but it has been really promising. I have praised McBurnie a lot this season but felt he like a few others were off from the lockdown.
Still a few not quite at it – Norwood still up and down and a lucky boy with some silly fouls/decisions and Stevens even though he made the goal and got better also made some atrocious decisions at times and his touch/passing and overall play is well below what it had been. I felt that there were so many plusses tonight though. Individually and collectively; it was so much better. We now can go to Burnley and with the confidence back hopefully go there and continue on from tonight. For a few days we can smile again though and at least not hear all this ‘Sheffield United have not turned up since the restart (which was right before tonight)’ and finally we have our team back again – its not turn 3 games though as with the lockdown its 4 months since we saw a show like that but big well done to Wilder and the team.
Ratings:
Henderson 6/10 – Could not do anything on the goal as it was a virtual tap. The disallowed goal he was a bit slow and went with his feet. Not his fault but went in a bit easy. The other parts of his game; he made one good save but expected. He punched one he should have caught and his kicking was up and down – struggles when played back from the ground to make half way (fine from his hands or dead).
Baldock 7/10 – Involved in some of the good play first half with some neat play and part of two goals with his early build-up. He was more advanced today than many other games. One miskick apart he was ok defensively although they all got a bit stretched first half. Just kept it simple second half – on the goal I think Berge got caught deep as he came out.
Stevens 5.5/10 – Still one of our weakest players despite the great assist for the goal. He really did well here to find Osborn, get it back and keep his composure. I thought he had a shocking first half, at least defensively with a few give aways and wild slashes. He seemed to be panicky on the ball and the assured footwork he shows and neat play had gone. He did get better second half but still a long way from his best.
Basham 7/10 – Solid performance after a few so so games at Man Utd and v Arsenal where he was somewhat at fault for a few goals. He was more like it tonight winning tackles and blocks. He did dive in a bit on the Kane goal so was a bit lucky this was disallowed as got beat too easily. He was good after this as all the defence was keeping a solid shape after being stretched a bit first half. He made some nice interceptions. Assisted on the first and then showed his usual Cryuff type turns and spins he shows. One bit where he juggled with it and over kicked it away on half way near Kane summed up his all action play and commitment.
Robinson 7/10 – He has been one of the plus points of the return. Yes, we have missed O’Connell of course as he offers more going forward and can help the other two with the blocks/physical/heading but Robinson has been sound. He was good at Villa but then dropped off with the others the next two but was better v Arsenal. We saw more of his long throw threat Sunday than tonight but he was good in terms of getting forward with the ball in general play at times first half. Second half he sat in more but kept a sound shape. He has been ok since he came in and looks a decent signing. You can see why Wilder signed him – he is a bit Cranie in that sense – will come in, no nonsense and mostly do a job.
Egan 8/10 – He looked leggy in the opening games and of course got sent off at Newcastle as the long ball and strength/pace of attackers was causing him problems but after a break he was ok Sunday and really back to his best tonight with an excellent performance. Kane scored at the end and had that one disallowed (Bash closer at this point) but I actually thought Egan won that battle over the game winning a lot of the headers, making blocks and frustrating the England captain. He was determined to ensure we did not concede silly chances and after the let off, we were much tighter and all the centre backs helped by the midfield were closer together lessening gaps second half.
Norwood 6.5/10 – Odd game. At times really good, breaking things up, kept it simple and protected the defence. However, he got ran off a few times first half, picked up the booking and then could have got another with a moment of madness. In a way he was lucky he was booked as if he had not been, VAR may have looked at it and given him a straight red but of course they can’t review for a yellow. He was a bit mixed in passing but has kind of has gone back to basics and this means he is not playing as many long balls but he was really good protecting the defence second half picking up loose balls etc.
Berge 8/10 – He did not start great giving it away a bit and lost the header to Dier on the corner but gradually got better with some nice flicks/touches and began to get on the ball. He broke the press a few times with quick feet. He does pass it very early and helps us move on. He does see a pass well. The goal was excellent. He seemed to go too wide but the driven finish gave the keeper no chance. After this his confidence grew. We saw him shrug off players a few times and move effortlessly through the gears. He put one cross in that nearly led to a goal and then on the third it was brilliant play. He was a bit sloppy on the third not stepping our or picking up Son but that was the only real blemish on a really good performance and a contender for man of the match. Really starting to show some promise after an ordinary start in a United shirt. He has ability on the ball and is starting to carry it, show his physical side too. One that I hope can better than better.
Osborn 8/10 – Surprise inclusion and 8/10 may seem high but I thought he was fantastic and just what we needed. Fleck and Lundstram been superb but both been off since we come back with the former completely off form and maybe not even fit so I think if Fleck was not right/picked up another knock; it was absolutely right for him to be rested and give someone a chance with fresh legs. Freeman would maybe have been the one you thought may play but he was injured and Osborn came in. He was great. He was a ratter, constantly around Spurs winning tackles, breaking things up and showed loads of energy but was decent on the ball. Someone said it reminded them of Montgomery in his peak (what do you mean his peak?!) but I saw that – in terms of doing all the little things but he is a better footballer than Monty and the goal showed that with clever play. Really pleased for him. Playing multi million-pound midfielder and more than held his own and ran them into the ground. He seems a nice lad too so great for him to get a start and do so well.
McBurnie 8/10 – My Man of the Match. Maybe just ahead of Berge, Egan and Osborn but all 4 could make a case. First half he tried to link with McGoldrick with a few flicks and touches but maybe did not always come off but worked hard with hold up and was a nuisance even if we did not have many clear chances but he was running the channels etc. I felt McGoldrick saw more of the ball as he came off deeper but when he went off; McBurnie was the one who came deeper and was excellent the final 30 minutes. He held it, played others in, forced errors, won free kicks and then scored a great goal and never stopped. Bit of a daft booking at the end but the last two games he has been fantastic and given his everything. Only concern is he is a bit knackered for Sunday and wonder whether Billy may get a game as we have lots of games of course.
McGoldrick 7/10 – I thought he was good first half and held it up and came off. Did a few odd things but he gave us an extra man at times in the middle and I thought he showed some neat touches and link play. He was better with the ball in terms of keeping it than Sunday when he was a bit sloppy and I thought the two strikers were at least linking more. Second half he nearly scored – maybe should have gone across the goal. Mousset came on and did really well but that does not detract from the work Didzy did beforehand as he helped tire the defenders out with McBurnie.
Subs –
Mousset – Let us be honest since maybe just before Xmas; due to whether it is stuff in his personal life (losing some friends/family) or his lack of fitness or maybe even lifestyle, he has looked a long way from the explosive player we saw from Sept to Dec where he went on that scoring run. He has looked disinterested in his body language and picked up too many injuries. Tonight, we saw the player we had seen in that period. He showed pace, strength and caused all sorts of problems. Scored the goal by getting in a good position but it was his all-round play with chasing the ball, running it down and holding it up. Everything seemed to stick and he was so hard to hold. Much, much better. We need to see more of this and hopefully he can do this more consistently if he wants to start again
Freeman – Only came on right at the end with the game almost done as we looked to kill a bit of time.
Manager Wilder 8/10 – A brave call in terms of bringing in Osborn and leaving Fleck out (albeit with a knock) or did he have no choice? I felt pre game in his interview he was saying he was putting out what he could and we would have a go but his words were different to what happened as we came out and took the game to them. They had a good spell in the second part of the first half and the major decision went for us and we took advantage. I thought 2nd half we were excellent. We were compact and restricted them and we scored some really good goals, well made with lovely football. We got after them and closed them down/harried them and forced them into mistakes. They looked a bit clueless and despite throwing on lots of bodies and talent never looked like coming back and Wilder got it spot in tightening things up second half perfectly.
Subs I said we should have named a couple of youngsters but apparently Slater was still registered as a loan player at Scunthorpe (weird if they are not playing but suppose a season long loan) and apparently Tyler Smith could not play due playing for two clubs already. I still think he could have put two other lads on the bench maybe (Zak Brunt?) but that’s just me. Some have said he has done this before as if to put a point out to the board about our lack of depth but if Clarke was injured then we had no one at all he could put on the bench with all the injuries and the players (Besic and Retsos going back) then we were down to bare bones as he said.
Will be delighted to get one over Jose though – who has won the lot in the game and he out manoeuvred him tactically. We have been much better than Spurs in both games (football as well as competing) and that is an incredible fear when you look at they were in the Champions League last season and have such a wealth of talent.
Spurs
They are getting pelters from their fans and indeed neutrals and rightly so. They had a bad start this season and sacked the manager – ridiculously harshly for me and then Mourinho came in. He improved things to some degree but they have been up and down recently and this has continued since the lock down. Today they looked good on the break first half and were unlucky with the goal and had a few half chances but not sure how much they tested Henderson. The goals they gave away were pathetic with statuesque defending on all of them. They were good goals but too easily made and finished. They were a soft touch in the middle and I felt our strikers worked harder and bullied them. They did have a few moments first half and could / should have been level if not for the stupid rules but then after this they never really did much at all. They had so much of the ball but did very little with it, especially second half. They ended up running out of ideas and when the 2nd went in, the heads started to go. They kept knocking it out of play and just seemed to look beaten. They had a few goals disallowed but these were well offside or fouls. They got a late goal but were well beaten. I felt first half they were ok and a few moments just did not quite go for them but after the break they lost the battles and actually the best football was played by us.
They should be doing much better – they have some good players and to go from what they had last season to this which is miles off the top of the season. Seems Mourinho has lost his mojo somewhat after his amazing success at a number of clubs and now he struggled at the end of his second spell at Chelsea, Man Utd and not inspiring here either. He seems to have not quite worked out how he wants Spurs to play. His recent jobs he has gone very defensive but they seem caught between going forward and trying to be solid and are neither. They were so easy to get through.
I like Son and think he is a real talent but if he is off form as he was tonight Kane gets isolated. They have some pace and runners and skilled performers but even these are not performing week in, week out. Defensively they have too many players who are mistake ridden. They need some experience and leadership in defence/midfield but a few players have lost form/our of favour. They will not make the top 4/5 now and scraping round for a Europe Place is not a very good season at all. They have spent a fair bit too on some players recently so the criticism given that Levy does not spend not sure that is fair recent times. The Spurs fans asking them to spend more etc should look at our group that could not fill a bench etc. Sometimes its about doing the basics well and defending, working hard and then you can play your football.
Opponent Man of the Match – Kane scored/had another disallowed but actually blazed a few over and was lazy on his offside and commited a daft foul on another. Egan played him well but he was one of Spurs more dangerous players still. Moura looked the best attacker as he at least advanced with the ball but saw little second half. Not sure anyone else really stood out. Lamela tried to get on it when he could after coming on but the game had all but gone.
Opponent Weak link – You could take your pick from the hapless Sanchez, Dier or Sissoko but Aurier wins it. He was dreadful in the return game and was the same tonight and was wretched on and off the ball. They hooked him second half but not after his ball watching led to several chances. Sissoko is not bad normally but his passing and control was off tonight. Dier has regressed badly in the last few years – he is between two positions and not sure he has the mobility for a midfielder or the pace/aggression/concentration for a defender -should be nowhere near the England squad. I thought Son was poor despite the last assist and not in the game and I really rate him. Bergjwin showed a few flashes early but faded. Ditto for Lo Celso.
Referee/Officials/VAR – The big decision went for us. It is of course the rules rather than VAR who have to apply it as it is but it is a nonsense (the rules). How that can be any kind of intentional handball is just crackers. It was hard on Spurs but we have had some shockers in terms of how the silly rules or how VAR is applied. Suppose they have been consistent (Foden had one off his arm tonight disallowed, Rice v us too and a few others) with the application of an awful rule. They really should have had the play brought back for a free kick for a push on Moura before the handball. I recall Basham getting fouled at Norwich and we scored and it was ruled out and they did not look at this either. They are poor at applying common sense VAR when they could have at least said – we cant help but disallow it for hand ball as the rules are there but we can go back and give the push or even just give the goal as he had played on and the foul had led to it hitting his hand (maybe they can’t do that but common sense should surely be applied)
We also got away with a Norwood one where he easily could have got a yellow. Lots have said the narrative is everyone is against us but tonight that was not the case as in a 5-10 minute spell we had two big things go for us (one due to rules/VAR and another due to poor officiating).
The Sky / Match of the Day pundits discussing VAR did not seem to quite understand it in terms of it being the rules not the VAR on this one (Shearer mentioned it) as lots of other media/twitter ‘experts’ have stated – saying the worst VAR decision of the season. It was not VAR. Redknapp said it was the worst VAR decision of the season. It wasn’t really VAR in that sense and the worst decision is still the one at Villa where the goalie had the ball inside the netting. However, I suppose after VAR ruled out the Lundstram one, at least we have some parity in terms of the decisions in the two games.
The rest of the game I am not sure there were many bad fouls. We were more aggressive and felt we did lots of good fouls (to stop play etc) and did all the things to slow them down professionally but as the game went on we did not even after do that. McBurnie got booked for dissent and should have just shut up but it was not a particularly physical game. Spurs fans will complain that the away team never put a tackle in all night so would not have a chance of picking up a booking! Kavanagh had that moment at Man City earlier in the season when he ran into Fleck so at least he improved for us in that regard! He was a mile better than Tierney on Sunday but then we would say that as a few decisions went for us (Norwood one the main one the officials missed).
Crowd/Atmosphere/Other stuff etc – We had more flags on John Street! When we win it really is hard and hurts not to be there tonight. Would have loved to have seen that and given the chants to Mourinho etc (I quite like him actually) as the Lane would have been absolutely rocking. Nice to get a win at home even without fans and continued our excellent record against the London teams this season in the league (not lost one yet). Got some tough home games v an outstanding Wolves team but an inconsistent Chelsea team then an improving Everton side. I think there is points to be had in those if we replicate tonight and the away games offer similar chances but the key is maintaining the intensity which will be hard with two games a week.
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Match report below
The Blades finally got back to winning ways after an excellent performance saw them see of Spurs 3-1 at Bramall Lane. After the improved showing in the FA Cup, despite defeat to Arsenal, United took this on and put in a determined and organised showing. The effort was superb throughout and three lovely goals in the set up and execution saw them blow Spurs away. The visitors had a lot of the ball but actually were wasteful. Even the VAR decision went for United, although technically this was down to the ridiculous rules on handball rather than VAR stepping in unnecessarily. United have been stung many times this season so will feel that they were due on and ironically one of the most controversial decisions was in the return fixture when Lundstram’s big toe saw a goal ruled out.
The Blades playing without three key men and arguably their two best players were able to be compact without the ball, they hunted in packs and turned over the ball. When they had it, they used it much better than they had done in the previous three league games and fashioned some good moves. This was more than the more direct approach we saw in the game against the Gunners at the weekend. In the end Tottenham were well beaten despite the late consolation by Kane.
United were still without Jack O’Connell but also had to make do without John Fleck and John Lundstram. Ben Osborn came in for his first start in the Premier League and Berge started the game after a good showing in the game on Sunday when he came on. Spurs had an expensively assembled bench with Ali, Winks, Vertonghen, Ndombele and Lamela amongst those in reserve. United could only name 7 subs of the permitted 9, with injuries taking its toll and no place for Luke Freeman who had picked up a knock.
The Blades began in determined mood moving into the Spurs half and within a minute they had tested Lloris with Baldock coming inside and hitting a shot that was straight at the Spurs keeper. United were moving it about well and McGoldrick was coming off deep into midfield and linking play and him and McBurnie nearly combined. The wing backs were well advanced too. Spurs did break and win a corner and a Dier flick was just away from Sissoko at the far post.
United had been decent but when they lost it Spurs showed they could break at speed and twice they nearly got in after a Kane flick saw Son get away and then Bergwijn also found some space but Basham made a block. Spurs then had their first real effort but Kane fired well over before Sissoko hit a weak shot at Henderson when well placed.
As the drinks break came, it was a relatively even game with Spurs maybe looking the more generous when they broke but United were competing well.
A soft foul on Moura saw Kane have a free kick which he blasted into the empty Kop but United were finally able to celebrate a league goal since the restart on the half hour. It was the goal that had become United’s trademark before lockdown with the wing back and centre back well forward. Baldock fed Basham who drove into the box and pulled back for BERGE who took a touch but he was quite wide but hit a superb drilled shot right into the far corner. It was a fantastic moment for the young Norwegian with his first goal in a Blades shirt and his celebration showed his delight.
Within a minute, it seemed Spurs were instantly level. They broke through and after a lucky bounce it fell for Kane who sidestepped Basham and rolled it past a leaden footed Henderson. It was poor defending but then it seemed there was an issue in the build-up. The VAR check for handball showed that Moura who was pushed over saw the ball bounce off his hand and into the path of Kane. Technically by the rules it was a handball and VAR had little choice despite everyone criticising VAR. It was not their fault but the ridiculous rules which have helped United twice this season in this regard amidst a number going against us. The VAR team should have brought it back for a foul on Moura in the build up though as he was pushed by Berge. Kane and Mourinho looked furious. United finally had something go for them after a series of poor decisions and bad luck since the lockdown.
Norwood was booked for a poor pull back on Moura and then caught Ali with an arm soon after and was lucky not to be sent off after this moment of madness. The final moments of the half saw Spurs to continue to probe and United had to hold firm with Egan and Basham solid and Osborn working hard also. Egan made two blocks before the half time whistle.
The second half saw the Blades come out determined to keep their shape and discipline and they did this early on limiting Spurs to very few chances of note. United were just keeping a nice bank of defenders and midfielders and limiting Spurs more through the middle after the first half they had afforded a bit too much space in this area.
The work ethic from the Blades was summed up when Sissoko inexplicably kicked the ball out for a corner from half way after McBurnie had chased him down. Lamela came on for Bergwijn on 55 minutes but the best chance since the break came after great work by Berge and Baldock led to a chance for McGoldrick but he fired into the side netting despite the ‘fake’ crowd thinking it was in!
Soon after McGoldrick gave way for Mousset as United looked to stretch Spurs on the break. This half Spurs had been more probing and less dangerous on the counter as United looked to be more solid, understandably being a goal ahead.
McBurnie’s tireless hold up and efforts continued and more good work led to the important second goal. His diagonal ball fed Stevens who then fed Osborn. The wing back carried his run and the ball back to him was timed to perfection with Stevens staying onside and squaring it for MOUSSET to tap home from close range. It was a brilliantly made goal and United now had a cushion.
More good work from the industrious Osborn saw United force Spurs to cough up possession again as they became frustrated.
Ali and Ndombele came on for Aurier and Sissoko as they tried to throw men forward in an attempt to find a way back into the game. Kane had the ball in the net twice but once for offside and another for a clear foul on Egan saw them both rightly ruled out. Vertonghen came on for Davies as Spurs finally changed their shape but the second half performance from them had been poor as United kept them from creating very little at all. The Blades actually looked more dangerous on the break in an inverse of the first half for both teams in terms of style. United now had pace and Mousset was causing problems winning the ball and using his strength and pace.
On 82 minutes, the victory was all but secured. More neat football saw Norwood, Baldock and then Berge involved. Berge was superb with his touch, turn and then cross which led to MCBURNIE expertly sweeping home at the near post. It was another fantastic goal and United looked home and dry.
The final moments saw more good closing down from United as Spurs seemed to run out of ideas. McBurnie was booked for dissent after disagreeing with a foul given against him as he clashed with Lo Celso. As the game entered the final minute, United switched off and Son beat the offside trap and squared for KANE to score easily from close range. The Blades were the only Premier League team he had not scored against before tonight but this was merely a consolation. Four minutes of extra time were to be played. Kieron Freeman came on for McBurnie before Mousset showed more powerful play to win a free kick as the Blades saw things out to ensure they got the three points. United are of course now mathematically assured of another season in the top flight (not that it was in doubt) and now with three points in the bag can turn their attention to how high they can finish in the league.
United – Finally! A win, an almost complete performance some of the football, organisation, resilience and all the qualities we have shown most off the season were back. We saw glimpses on Sunday but today for most of the game I felt it was committed and we won so many loose balls, second balls and pressed Spurs all game. We moved it around when we could.
The front two (and the sub) up the top of the field were excellent and also the midfield worked hard. We started the game well but they were dangerous on the break of course and had a few chances but we scored a really well-made goal with players high up the field and link/interplay which we have not seen and Berge took it superbly. After this they did have the moment and it was a bonkers decision in terms of the rules. It should count but they have made nonsensical rules on the handball. A lot saying nothing VAR could do but rule it out but they should have gone back and given the foul at least as that was before the handball. They have all become a bit robotic but had some sympathy with the handball – that rule needs to change. We had another let off with the Norwood possible second booking but got to half time despite Spurs pace and breaking causing us problems.
Credit to Wilder as at half time we actually went deeper. That is not always a good tactic but today Spurs main threat was breaking if they beat the press. We became a bit more solid and sat back 10 yards and the midfield denied space though the middle. Too often this season (and at times first half) teams have run through us in midfield and defence but 2nd half we stiffened up in this area. Osborn and Norwood sat in front and McGoldrick and then McBurnie came and helped out. We forced them wide and they had no idea with the spaces restricted in the middle. We scored a great second goal with lovely work from a number of players with McBurnie and then Stevens/Osborn linking up so well and Mousset also getting in front of his man. After this they made changes but other than a few rightly disallowed goals not sure they created much. Egan was great at the back and then Berge and McBurnie continued their strong play. The third goal was another great goal also. Shame we gave one away at the death but 3-1 was about right over the game.
It feels fantastic to win, great to see a proper team performance and the smiles are back amongst fans and players. I was just so pleased that we did not see another loss and poor performance – we saw the glimmers of hope Sunday, even in a loss and today was another step up. Now we can relax a bit. I would not rush Fleck and O’Connell back – get them totally right even if we have to wait a few more games. We have two tough home games to come but don’t fear any of the away games particularly with Burnley up and down, Southampton the same and Leicester fading fast. I have said before a top 10 finish would be fantastic. I maintain that but now the dreams of Europe start to flicker again. For me, positions, Europe are all nice but I just wanted us to finish the season with a semblance of the team/performances we have seen this season and tonight we saw that.
A lot will say fan (like me) are being hypocritical praising tonight and saying how great we are when we slammed them for 3 poor performances but the reality is, we were great tonight and were crap in the other 3 (but have been superb all season). Not sure anyone can disagree with that. I will be honest and say I could not see where the next point was coming from after Man Utd as we looked so leggy and not the same team but that is where maybe some (including me) should have more faith in this group and Wilder but it was a night and day performance from the previous 3 league games. The reality is if we play like we did tonight then we will win more games than we lose.
In terms of players, Berge will rightly get a lot of plaudits tonight. I have been critical of him of course but the last two he has really shown a lot and I am pleased. I think a lot will say people like me should eat humble pie but I don’t see it like that – for me he was showing little and I said that. He did not look much of a player but now the last two he has stepped up and rightly get praise. Some criticised McBurnie also and I was one but he too has improved and is getting lots of plaudits. You can say somebody was poor in some games and good in others. You don’t have to say they ARE good or bad players – but you can call performances. Berge had shown little but now had. I won’t go the other way and say he is amazing and what a player as we need to see him do it regularly but it has been really promising. I have praised McBurnie a lot this season but felt he like a few others were off from the lockdown.
Still a few not quite at it – Norwood still up and down and a lucky boy with some silly fouls/decisions and Stevens even though he made the goal and got better also made some atrocious decisions at times and his touch/passing and overall play is well below what it had been. I felt that there were so many plusses tonight though. Individually and collectively; it was so much better. We now can go to Burnley and with the confidence back hopefully go there and continue on from tonight. For a few days we can smile again though and at least not hear all this ‘Sheffield United have not turned up since the restart (which was right before tonight)’ and finally we have our team back again – its not turn 3 games though as with the lockdown its 4 months since we saw a show like that but big well done to Wilder and the team.
Ratings:
Henderson 6/10 – Could not do anything on the goal as it was a virtual tap. The disallowed goal he was a bit slow and went with his feet. Not his fault but went in a bit easy. The other parts of his game; he made one good save but expected. He punched one he should have caught and his kicking was up and down – struggles when played back from the ground to make half way (fine from his hands or dead).
Baldock 7/10 – Involved in some of the good play first half with some neat play and part of two goals with his early build-up. He was more advanced today than many other games. One miskick apart he was ok defensively although they all got a bit stretched first half. Just kept it simple second half – on the goal I think Berge got caught deep as he came out.
Stevens 5.5/10 – Still one of our weakest players despite the great assist for the goal. He really did well here to find Osborn, get it back and keep his composure. I thought he had a shocking first half, at least defensively with a few give aways and wild slashes. He seemed to be panicky on the ball and the assured footwork he shows and neat play had gone. He did get better second half but still a long way from his best.
Basham 7/10 – Solid performance after a few so so games at Man Utd and v Arsenal where he was somewhat at fault for a few goals. He was more like it tonight winning tackles and blocks. He did dive in a bit on the Kane goal so was a bit lucky this was disallowed as got beat too easily. He was good after this as all the defence was keeping a solid shape after being stretched a bit first half. He made some nice interceptions. Assisted on the first and then showed his usual Cryuff type turns and spins he shows. One bit where he juggled with it and over kicked it away on half way near Kane summed up his all action play and commitment.
Robinson 7/10 – He has been one of the plus points of the return. Yes, we have missed O’Connell of course as he offers more going forward and can help the other two with the blocks/physical/heading but Robinson has been sound. He was good at Villa but then dropped off with the others the next two but was better v Arsenal. We saw more of his long throw threat Sunday than tonight but he was good in terms of getting forward with the ball in general play at times first half. Second half he sat in more but kept a sound shape. He has been ok since he came in and looks a decent signing. You can see why Wilder signed him – he is a bit Cranie in that sense – will come in, no nonsense and mostly do a job.
Egan 8/10 – He looked leggy in the opening games and of course got sent off at Newcastle as the long ball and strength/pace of attackers was causing him problems but after a break he was ok Sunday and really back to his best tonight with an excellent performance. Kane scored at the end and had that one disallowed (Bash closer at this point) but I actually thought Egan won that battle over the game winning a lot of the headers, making blocks and frustrating the England captain. He was determined to ensure we did not concede silly chances and after the let off, we were much tighter and all the centre backs helped by the midfield were closer together lessening gaps second half.
Norwood 6.5/10 – Odd game. At times really good, breaking things up, kept it simple and protected the defence. However, he got ran off a few times first half, picked up the booking and then could have got another with a moment of madness. In a way he was lucky he was booked as if he had not been, VAR may have looked at it and given him a straight red but of course they can’t review for a yellow. He was a bit mixed in passing but has kind of has gone back to basics and this means he is not playing as many long balls but he was really good protecting the defence second half picking up loose balls etc.
Berge 8/10 – He did not start great giving it away a bit and lost the header to Dier on the corner but gradually got better with some nice flicks/touches and began to get on the ball. He broke the press a few times with quick feet. He does pass it very early and helps us move on. He does see a pass well. The goal was excellent. He seemed to go too wide but the driven finish gave the keeper no chance. After this his confidence grew. We saw him shrug off players a few times and move effortlessly through the gears. He put one cross in that nearly led to a goal and then on the third it was brilliant play. He was a bit sloppy on the third not stepping our or picking up Son but that was the only real blemish on a really good performance and a contender for man of the match. Really starting to show some promise after an ordinary start in a United shirt. He has ability on the ball and is starting to carry it, show his physical side too. One that I hope can better than better.
Osborn 8/10 – Surprise inclusion and 8/10 may seem high but I thought he was fantastic and just what we needed. Fleck and Lundstram been superb but both been off since we come back with the former completely off form and maybe not even fit so I think if Fleck was not right/picked up another knock; it was absolutely right for him to be rested and give someone a chance with fresh legs. Freeman would maybe have been the one you thought may play but he was injured and Osborn came in. He was great. He was a ratter, constantly around Spurs winning tackles, breaking things up and showed loads of energy but was decent on the ball. Someone said it reminded them of Montgomery in his peak (what do you mean his peak?!) but I saw that – in terms of doing all the little things but he is a better footballer than Monty and the goal showed that with clever play. Really pleased for him. Playing multi million-pound midfielder and more than held his own and ran them into the ground. He seems a nice lad too so great for him to get a start and do so well.
McBurnie 8/10 – My Man of the Match. Maybe just ahead of Berge, Egan and Osborn but all 4 could make a case. First half he tried to link with McGoldrick with a few flicks and touches but maybe did not always come off but worked hard with hold up and was a nuisance even if we did not have many clear chances but he was running the channels etc. I felt McGoldrick saw more of the ball as he came off deeper but when he went off; McBurnie was the one who came deeper and was excellent the final 30 minutes. He held it, played others in, forced errors, won free kicks and then scored a great goal and never stopped. Bit of a daft booking at the end but the last two games he has been fantastic and given his everything. Only concern is he is a bit knackered for Sunday and wonder whether Billy may get a game as we have lots of games of course.
McGoldrick 7/10 – I thought he was good first half and held it up and came off. Did a few odd things but he gave us an extra man at times in the middle and I thought he showed some neat touches and link play. He was better with the ball in terms of keeping it than Sunday when he was a bit sloppy and I thought the two strikers were at least linking more. Second half he nearly scored – maybe should have gone across the goal. Mousset came on and did really well but that does not detract from the work Didzy did beforehand as he helped tire the defenders out with McBurnie.
Subs –
Mousset – Let us be honest since maybe just before Xmas; due to whether it is stuff in his personal life (losing some friends/family) or his lack of fitness or maybe even lifestyle, he has looked a long way from the explosive player we saw from Sept to Dec where he went on that scoring run. He has looked disinterested in his body language and picked up too many injuries. Tonight, we saw the player we had seen in that period. He showed pace, strength and caused all sorts of problems. Scored the goal by getting in a good position but it was his all-round play with chasing the ball, running it down and holding it up. Everything seemed to stick and he was so hard to hold. Much, much better. We need to see more of this and hopefully he can do this more consistently if he wants to start again
Freeman – Only came on right at the end with the game almost done as we looked to kill a bit of time.
Manager Wilder 8/10 – A brave call in terms of bringing in Osborn and leaving Fleck out (albeit with a knock) or did he have no choice? I felt pre game in his interview he was saying he was putting out what he could and we would have a go but his words were different to what happened as we came out and took the game to them. They had a good spell in the second part of the first half and the major decision went for us and we took advantage. I thought 2nd half we were excellent. We were compact and restricted them and we scored some really good goals, well made with lovely football. We got after them and closed them down/harried them and forced them into mistakes. They looked a bit clueless and despite throwing on lots of bodies and talent never looked like coming back and Wilder got it spot in tightening things up second half perfectly.
Subs I said we should have named a couple of youngsters but apparently Slater was still registered as a loan player at Scunthorpe (weird if they are not playing but suppose a season long loan) and apparently Tyler Smith could not play due playing for two clubs already. I still think he could have put two other lads on the bench maybe (Zak Brunt?) but that’s just me. Some have said he has done this before as if to put a point out to the board about our lack of depth but if Clarke was injured then we had no one at all he could put on the bench with all the injuries and the players (Besic and Retsos going back) then we were down to bare bones as he said.
Will be delighted to get one over Jose though – who has won the lot in the game and he out manoeuvred him tactically. We have been much better than Spurs in both games (football as well as competing) and that is an incredible fear when you look at they were in the Champions League last season and have such a wealth of talent.
Spurs
They are getting pelters from their fans and indeed neutrals and rightly so. They had a bad start this season and sacked the manager – ridiculously harshly for me and then Mourinho came in. He improved things to some degree but they have been up and down recently and this has continued since the lock down. Today they looked good on the break first half and were unlucky with the goal and had a few half chances but not sure how much they tested Henderson. The goals they gave away were pathetic with statuesque defending on all of them. They were good goals but too easily made and finished. They were a soft touch in the middle and I felt our strikers worked harder and bullied them. They did have a few moments first half and could / should have been level if not for the stupid rules but then after this they never really did much at all. They had so much of the ball but did very little with it, especially second half. They ended up running out of ideas and when the 2nd went in, the heads started to go. They kept knocking it out of play and just seemed to look beaten. They had a few goals disallowed but these were well offside or fouls. They got a late goal but were well beaten. I felt first half they were ok and a few moments just did not quite go for them but after the break they lost the battles and actually the best football was played by us.
They should be doing much better – they have some good players and to go from what they had last season to this which is miles off the top of the season. Seems Mourinho has lost his mojo somewhat after his amazing success at a number of clubs and now he struggled at the end of his second spell at Chelsea, Man Utd and not inspiring here either. He seems to have not quite worked out how he wants Spurs to play. His recent jobs he has gone very defensive but they seem caught between going forward and trying to be solid and are neither. They were so easy to get through.
I like Son and think he is a real talent but if he is off form as he was tonight Kane gets isolated. They have some pace and runners and skilled performers but even these are not performing week in, week out. Defensively they have too many players who are mistake ridden. They need some experience and leadership in defence/midfield but a few players have lost form/our of favour. They will not make the top 4/5 now and scraping round for a Europe Place is not a very good season at all. They have spent a fair bit too on some players recently so the criticism given that Levy does not spend not sure that is fair recent times. The Spurs fans asking them to spend more etc should look at our group that could not fill a bench etc. Sometimes its about doing the basics well and defending, working hard and then you can play your football.
Opponent Man of the Match – Kane scored/had another disallowed but actually blazed a few over and was lazy on his offside and commited a daft foul on another. Egan played him well but he was one of Spurs more dangerous players still. Moura looked the best attacker as he at least advanced with the ball but saw little second half. Not sure anyone else really stood out. Lamela tried to get on it when he could after coming on but the game had all but gone.
Opponent Weak link – You could take your pick from the hapless Sanchez, Dier or Sissoko but Aurier wins it. He was dreadful in the return game and was the same tonight and was wretched on and off the ball. They hooked him second half but not after his ball watching led to several chances. Sissoko is not bad normally but his passing and control was off tonight. Dier has regressed badly in the last few years – he is between two positions and not sure he has the mobility for a midfielder or the pace/aggression/concentration for a defender -should be nowhere near the England squad. I thought Son was poor despite the last assist and not in the game and I really rate him. Bergjwin showed a few flashes early but faded. Ditto for Lo Celso.
Referee/Officials/VAR – The big decision went for us. It is of course the rules rather than VAR who have to apply it as it is but it is a nonsense (the rules). How that can be any kind of intentional handball is just crackers. It was hard on Spurs but we have had some shockers in terms of how the silly rules or how VAR is applied. Suppose they have been consistent (Foden had one off his arm tonight disallowed, Rice v us too and a few others) with the application of an awful rule. They really should have had the play brought back for a free kick for a push on Moura before the handball. I recall Basham getting fouled at Norwich and we scored and it was ruled out and they did not look at this either. They are poor at applying common sense VAR when they could have at least said – we cant help but disallow it for hand ball as the rules are there but we can go back and give the push or even just give the goal as he had played on and the foul had led to it hitting his hand (maybe they can’t do that but common sense should surely be applied)
We also got away with a Norwood one where he easily could have got a yellow. Lots have said the narrative is everyone is against us but tonight that was not the case as in a 5-10 minute spell we had two big things go for us (one due to rules/VAR and another due to poor officiating).
The Sky / Match of the Day pundits discussing VAR did not seem to quite understand it in terms of it being the rules not the VAR on this one (Shearer mentioned it) as lots of other media/twitter ‘experts’ have stated – saying the worst VAR decision of the season. It was not VAR. Redknapp said it was the worst VAR decision of the season. It wasn’t really VAR in that sense and the worst decision is still the one at Villa where the goalie had the ball inside the netting. However, I suppose after VAR ruled out the Lundstram one, at least we have some parity in terms of the decisions in the two games.
The rest of the game I am not sure there were many bad fouls. We were more aggressive and felt we did lots of good fouls (to stop play etc) and did all the things to slow them down professionally but as the game went on we did not even after do that. McBurnie got booked for dissent and should have just shut up but it was not a particularly physical game. Spurs fans will complain that the away team never put a tackle in all night so would not have a chance of picking up a booking! Kavanagh had that moment at Man City earlier in the season when he ran into Fleck so at least he improved for us in that regard! He was a mile better than Tierney on Sunday but then we would say that as a few decisions went for us (Norwood one the main one the officials missed).
Crowd/Atmosphere/Other stuff etc – We had more flags on John Street! When we win it really is hard and hurts not to be there tonight. Would have loved to have seen that and given the chants to Mourinho etc (I quite like him actually) as the Lane would have been absolutely rocking. Nice to get a win at home even without fans and continued our excellent record against the London teams this season in the league (not lost one yet). Got some tough home games v an outstanding Wolves team but an inconsistent Chelsea team then an improving Everton side. I think there is points to be had in those if we replicate tonight and the away games offer similar chances but the key is maintaining the intensity which will be hard with two games a week.
