Post by deadbat on Apr 30, 2023 10:23:38 GMT
The Blades party continued as they made it four home wins on the spin and thrashed play off contenders Preston North End 4-1 at a wet and sodden Bramall Lane. After sealing promotion on Wednesday night against West Brom, the United players may have been excused if they were not fully at it, after the celebrations of the week. However, despite making changes and being also pegged back in the game, United were good value for the victory against a really poor Lilywhites side whose hopes of finishing in the top 6 were ended convincingly. Goals from Ahmedhodzic, Fleck via a deflection, Ndiaye and McBurnie meant Delap’s leveller counted for nothing.
In front of another sold out Bramall Lane, Heckingbottom rotated his side with Bogle, Basham, Norwood and Sharp in from the start for the ‘rested’ Baldock, Egan, Berge and McBurnie. Preston had a number of players missing through injury including long term absence, Evans and also another former Blade Ben Whiteman. They started with loan players Troy Parrott and Tom Cannon as their strike partnership.
The game began with United zipping the ball about on the wet surface and controlling possession but Preston had the first shot, as Onomah’s low drive was easy for Foderingham. The Blades slowly started to move forwards and won two corners in a row before Doyle had a shot blocked after nice interchange. The one touch stuff and Ndiaye’s runs and trickery were a real feature of the home side’s play and it was the Senegalese man who nearly made an opener. His run and ball set up McAtee but Woodman smothered the one on one and denied the City loanee another goal.
It was very much a case of keep ball as the Blades looked in confident move and Preston were struggling to get the ball, let alone create anything and it was not a surprise when United took the lead. It came from a corner as Doyle hit the penalty spot and AHMEDHODZIC glanced his header into the far corner via a post. It was his second goal in a week and his sixth (seven with cup) of the season and all have been scored at Bramall Lane!
United could have doubled their lead with a flurry of chances as Doyle hit a fierce half volley that was pushed round the post by Woodman and then after the ball was kept in the box, Robinson fired narrowly wide. The Blades won a free kick when Bauer had clumsily upended Ndiaye and Norwood’s effort was tipped over by the busy North End keeper. The half time whistle came soon after the corner was cleared.
The second half saw Preston make a change with Man City loanee Delap on for Storey. Preston actually created their best chance as a ball over the top got deflected into the path of Cannon but Foderingham did well to make the save. United were quickly back on the attack and Ndiaye ran through and sat the keeper and defender down but Woodman made the block. McAtee then got in but was denied by a last-ditch tackle on the rebound. Parrot then was carded for a foul on McAtee who move away from two challenges with real class.
On the hour mark United made changes and Jebbison and Berge came on for Sharp and Doyle but it was soon after when Preston got a shock leveller. Foderingham made a bit of a mess of his kick and Potts got down the right to cross for DELAP to convert from close range.
This goal though only served to wake United up and after Fleck came on for McAtee, the Scottish midfielder had an instant impact when he combined with fellow sub Jebbison. United broke quickly and Jebbison cleverly backheeled the ball wrong footing the defence and FLECK was able to break and his shot took a big deflection and looped over Woodman and into the far corner to restore United’s lead.
Preston probably needing to win to stand any chance of making the top six seemed demoralised from this goal that was fortunate in its nature but a deserved one for how the game had gone in terms of play, possession and chances. On 75 minutes a third came and it was Jebbison again impressing as he broke down the right and played the perfect pass into the path of NDIAYE who swept it home at the Kop End. He got a booking for taking his shirt off but nobody cared at this point!
The Blades made more changes with Ndiaye and Robinson getting big ovations as McBurnie and Egan came on with 8 minutes to play. Jebbison continued to cause problems with his pace and powerful running but Preston actually had a really good appeal for a penalty as Ahmedhodzic seemed to trip Delap but the referee waved play on. United continued to play some lovely football and at times it was exhibition stuff and the gloss on the scoreline was added deep into the seven minutes of stoppage time. Berge found Basham and his cross was met powerfully on the volley by MCBURNIE and it went in despite it being not far from the grasp of keeper Woodman. The striker also got booked for undressing in his celebrations! The final whistle came and United’s players and staff left the pitch but returned to collect their medals and the runners up trophy was held aloft by skipper Sharp. The players moved around the pitch for the customary lap of honour but wearing medals and a trophy, after a promotion, it always feels better of course! The fans left the Lane for the last time this season and everyone was smiling before the party scenes continued into the streets and pubs around the Lane with London Road being particularly lively!
United – A really professional performance where we too good for a poor Preston side who looked dead on their feet by the end – which is weird as most of our players have been celebrating the last few days and may not have been their freshest! United were excellent in that they moved the ball around and looked a confident side. First half we played a lot of one touch stuff and then got it to McAtee and Ndiaye and the latter was in the mood and showed some incredible touches and skills. Preston stayed in the game but after Ahmedhodzic scored, we could have had a few more and Woodman made some good saves. After the break we had more chances (they had one too) and it seemed like we were toying with them almost but then a mistake from Wes and they get it back forward and score. They sensed an unlikely win but the changes we made helped give us another boost and we just seemed to step it up again and went and scored again – then more after this. Jebbison (and Fleck) were really good when they came on and the former looked strong, quick and made better decisions. You felt we might score every time we attacked at times and watching Ndiaye just dribbling round them was a joy to see. The 4-1 scoreline was about right in terms of chances and possession over the game.
With the pressure off, United made changes to the side but we did not really miss a beat and in the end, it was an assured and dominant performance. Worryingly for Preston, we did not really get out of first or second gear and that shows the difference between Burnley/us and some of the others- which is reflected in the table/points gap. I am glad we put on a performance and did not just go through the motions – that is important for us and other teams still playing for things. Sure, we will see changes again for the next game (would like to see Jebbison and Ndiaye have a game together) but Huddersfield will have something to play for -even if they win today, they are not quite safe but if they fail to beat Cardiff then they will have to get something against us and could confirm safety when they play us. United in relaxed mood can go there and express themselves against a poor side and I hope we can finish the season with two more wins – no reason why we cannot.
Off the field of course there is a lot of talk going on with the prince saying he wants to sell and could do quickly (not sure how that happens - been nearly a year and he’s wasted his time with two jokers essentially?) and now we are up we will have more interest. It needs sorting and we need some clarity soon but it still all seems a bit of a mess and could really hamper us next season and even further if this is not sorted.
I am concerned Hecky says he wants to keep most of the team (out of contract players) as suggests we are going to have little to spend but also many are/were not good enough last time (2nd season) and we need to move from the likes of Fleck, Stevens and possibly Sharp – as harsh as it sounds. We need better quality but saying we may only sign 5 or 6 is a worry as we will need more than that. A lot of those out of contract should be moved on- we should keep Wes, Norwood, Robinson and McBurnie but even those 4 would not be starting for me next season and be squad players. Discussions for next season are for another day but for now just want to enjoy these last few games and this last week and keep the celebrations going.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – Made an easy save in the first half but little to do but then made a really good one on one save to deny them after half time. His poor kick led directly to the goal though as they picked the ball up and scored almost straight after.
Bogle 5.5/10 – He was ok at times but generally another game where I am wanting and expecting more and it did not really happen. Had a few ok runs and touches but can’t recall many moments where he set anything up or got behind them? His passing and touch were sloppy and still does not react quick enough. Really worrying how he looks so far off the player we saw last season. A big summer waits for him.
Lowe 6.5/10 – He did his usual where he is often poor and slow first half but then improves second half. He was not as bad as he has been in the opening half and maybe not as good as he has been in the second half but does change his game weirdly after the break! He showed a few ok touches but also was a bit slow to move across. The goal came down his side but was kind of transition. He got well forward at times and was involved to support a number of attacks.
Robinson 7/10 – Steady as ever. Despite his bizarre hand ball (just caught it when it was going over his head – not sure how that was not a booking), he played well again. Won his tackles, read the game well and also had a shot not far wide. Has become one of our most consistent players.
Ahmedhodzic 8/10 – He has excelled when playing that central position in the three and I do think that will eventually end up being his position here for us or another team. He is so composed on the ball and he comes out with it well and picks the right pass. His knack of getting goals continued too. He played really well and just strolled it although one poor tackle at the end should have been a penalty.
Basham 7/10 – As with Robinson on the other side, he played well and did what he had to. Mopped up and then tried to carry it out too. He made some interceptions and then got forward to support too and set up the final goal with a good cross.
Doyle 7.5/10 – Another good game where he was all energy, on the ball and moving it around. He had a few decent set plays – one for the goal and a few efforts on goal – one blocked and another well saved. He looks a player that you think will just get better and better – as he has so many good attributes
McAtee 6.5/10 – We saw those flashes where he gets on it and comes at the defence and you think something will happen but did not quite click today. Had a one on one he missed when he should have scored and got tripped a few times but not quite as involved as you would want. Still great to have him on the break when we do attack though.
Norwood 6/10 – Some good stuff but some unnecessary over play or showboating too. He seems obsessed with playing the ball with the outside of his foot when it is not needed most of the time. He did play some decent balls but gave it away a bit too. It was all too easy though so he could kind of ease through it.
Ndiaye 8/10 – The best player on the pitch and not even that close. All game the ball seemed almost tied to his feet as he ran at defenders, weaved and jinked and a constant nuisance. Showed his running, upper body strength and his decision making too. He set up McAtee first half for a chance and then should have scored himself early into the second half but took too long after a mazy run. Continued to be a threat and linked well with Jebbison and could be something we may see more of in the final games? He loves his football and after he scored (a great finish) he came off and had a huge smile on his face. Hopefully it is not the last time we saw of him at the Lane – he is surely destined for bigger and better things one day but hope it is not yet though and he stays for another season.
Sharp 4/10 - Not his day at all despite everyone willing him to get that 250th goal but after some good sub appearances – he looked way off it today. He kept giving away cheap fouls and was behind his man a lot. Did not have any chances or look remotely like scoring and was right for him to be taken off – we improved hugely when Jebbison came on to give Ndiaye some support.
Subs –
Jebbison 8/10 – Excellent. We have seen glimpses at times where he has looked good but then other times he has looked out of his depth – suppose you get that with a young kid. However today he was superb and looked strong, powerful, quick and dangerous. He made the right choices too. He set up Fleck’s with a great back flick and then on the third he sort of rag dolled his man and ran through and put it on a plate for Ndiaye. He had a few other runs and Preston could not handle him. We have to see more of that.
Berge 7.5/10 – Preston must have looked up and saw him coming on and thought it was almost not fair. Had a few good runs down the right and at times just glided past his men and helped us play keep ball. Not a bad sub to come on!
Fleck 7.5/10 – He did well and like Sharp, almost seems better with these cameos than when they have started. He got in and drove forward to score via a deflection which was a nice moment for him if it was his last game at the Lane. He was really busy and involved in the time he was on and helped us create several opportunities.
McBurnie – Helped us keep the ball and we had those little triangles down the right and then capped it with a good volleyed finish – nice to see him and Ndiaye both scoring at the end.
Egan – Brought on at the death but more to allow Robinson to get an ovation possibly as the game was done.
Manager: Heckingbottom 8/10 – Changed the side and rotated within the game too and we won easily really just upping it when we needed to. Credit to the coaching staff as they got them up and prepared for a game they easily could have just sacked off and another convincing win – to reel off all four at home shows how ruthless we have been. Expect him to rotate a bit more in the final few games.
Preston – I thought even with a few out and us in confident mood, they would exploit our excesses of the week – the Wembley semi and then the promotion game – followed by the players drinking into the early hours of Thursday morning. However, Preston were awful for the most part and the Blades did not have to do much to beat them. We went 1-0 up at the break and it could have been more as Preston defended quite deep and did not really have a proper go at us – which was surprising as they had to win? They did get level against the run of play with a good cross and well taken finish but they then sat back again and we went and just upped it again. They then fell apart and could cope with Jebbison and Ndiaye. It went to three and four and it could have been more. In the end they were well beaten.
For them to be anywhere near the top 6 is remarkable though with their budget as Lowe spoke about pre game. We of course have parachute payments, bigger wages and a deeper squad so it is hard for Preston to compete with the likes of us. They have done well to get close and have had good runs but lost a few key men. Every season they seem to be nowhere near the bottom and comfortable – sometimes flirting with the playoffs. Seem a well-run club in this sense but fans of course would want more investment somehow to push them further as without it – will always be hard to get in the nix at the top end – with three teams coming down and then often a number of other sides with financial weight – they face an uphill task. This shows how well they have done really and as I say if you lose a few key men then it is even harder. Lowe seems to have done a really good job there though and they always seem competitive in most games – that is why the way they capitulated today was probably so disappointing for them to finish their season like this.
Opponent Man of the Match – Possibly the sub-Delap. He scored, had another good run and had an appeal for a penalty turned down. Outside of him, the keeper Woodman made a number of saves and kept the score down probably. Onomah in midfield showed a few glimpses of good play too.
Opponent Weak link – Thought the defence struggled with Ndiaye, McAtee and then Jebbison’s pace, running and skill. None of the three centre backs covered themselves in glory and the lad Storey came off at half time. Bauer and Hughes were both slow and immobile and the former was turned inside out by Ndiaye – then Jebbison after he came on.
The two loan lads up front did not really get in the game at all and only had one chance which Wes saved from Cannon. I always used to like the lad Johnson in midfield but recent games versus us, he has been poor – today he booted one clearance right into the Kop under no pressure.
Referee/Officials – Steve Martin. Another ref who seemed to get in the way a lot and his positioning was not the best. Booked three players – one for them a blatant trip and could have booked a few more as Ndiaye and McAtee took some hammer. The McBurnie and Ndiaye yellows were for taking their shirts off – which I can never understand really – the rule or why you would do it? The rest of the game he was ok but it was not the hardest games to ref. He did not get much help from his assistants who both guesses at most of their decisions and the ref had to give some as they did not! He did miss a fairly blatant penalty I thought at 3-1 when Anel tripped Delap.
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – It was good to see the Lane packed again and it was a party atmosphere as the fans just could relax. The team treated them to another win and some lovely football and goals too. It was quiet for spells but when you are up and had the big games recently (cup semi and promotion sealing game) then there is always going to be a bit of a lull. It got noisier towards the end when we turned it on again and then of course most fans stayed to watch the players get their medals. Good they introduced most individually and allowed them all to get that personal acclaim with some cheers/chants louder than others of course.
After the game went to the Beer Engine and then the Clubhouse and it was lively at the latter. I was there later (heard a few were being a bit stupid, allegedly throwing bottles and cans at police and some theft from Aldi nearby) and it was mostly good natured when I got there. There were flares aplenty, fireworks going off and a lot of singing and dancing. Pity those who have to do the clean up today though! Overall, another great day and a fantastic week in the history of Sheffield United.
In front of another sold out Bramall Lane, Heckingbottom rotated his side with Bogle, Basham, Norwood and Sharp in from the start for the ‘rested’ Baldock, Egan, Berge and McBurnie. Preston had a number of players missing through injury including long term absence, Evans and also another former Blade Ben Whiteman. They started with loan players Troy Parrott and Tom Cannon as their strike partnership.
The game began with United zipping the ball about on the wet surface and controlling possession but Preston had the first shot, as Onomah’s low drive was easy for Foderingham. The Blades slowly started to move forwards and won two corners in a row before Doyle had a shot blocked after nice interchange. The one touch stuff and Ndiaye’s runs and trickery were a real feature of the home side’s play and it was the Senegalese man who nearly made an opener. His run and ball set up McAtee but Woodman smothered the one on one and denied the City loanee another goal.
It was very much a case of keep ball as the Blades looked in confident move and Preston were struggling to get the ball, let alone create anything and it was not a surprise when United took the lead. It came from a corner as Doyle hit the penalty spot and AHMEDHODZIC glanced his header into the far corner via a post. It was his second goal in a week and his sixth (seven with cup) of the season and all have been scored at Bramall Lane!
United could have doubled their lead with a flurry of chances as Doyle hit a fierce half volley that was pushed round the post by Woodman and then after the ball was kept in the box, Robinson fired narrowly wide. The Blades won a free kick when Bauer had clumsily upended Ndiaye and Norwood’s effort was tipped over by the busy North End keeper. The half time whistle came soon after the corner was cleared.
The second half saw Preston make a change with Man City loanee Delap on for Storey. Preston actually created their best chance as a ball over the top got deflected into the path of Cannon but Foderingham did well to make the save. United were quickly back on the attack and Ndiaye ran through and sat the keeper and defender down but Woodman made the block. McAtee then got in but was denied by a last-ditch tackle on the rebound. Parrot then was carded for a foul on McAtee who move away from two challenges with real class.
On the hour mark United made changes and Jebbison and Berge came on for Sharp and Doyle but it was soon after when Preston got a shock leveller. Foderingham made a bit of a mess of his kick and Potts got down the right to cross for DELAP to convert from close range.
This goal though only served to wake United up and after Fleck came on for McAtee, the Scottish midfielder had an instant impact when he combined with fellow sub Jebbison. United broke quickly and Jebbison cleverly backheeled the ball wrong footing the defence and FLECK was able to break and his shot took a big deflection and looped over Woodman and into the far corner to restore United’s lead.
Preston probably needing to win to stand any chance of making the top six seemed demoralised from this goal that was fortunate in its nature but a deserved one for how the game had gone in terms of play, possession and chances. On 75 minutes a third came and it was Jebbison again impressing as he broke down the right and played the perfect pass into the path of NDIAYE who swept it home at the Kop End. He got a booking for taking his shirt off but nobody cared at this point!
The Blades made more changes with Ndiaye and Robinson getting big ovations as McBurnie and Egan came on with 8 minutes to play. Jebbison continued to cause problems with his pace and powerful running but Preston actually had a really good appeal for a penalty as Ahmedhodzic seemed to trip Delap but the referee waved play on. United continued to play some lovely football and at times it was exhibition stuff and the gloss on the scoreline was added deep into the seven minutes of stoppage time. Berge found Basham and his cross was met powerfully on the volley by MCBURNIE and it went in despite it being not far from the grasp of keeper Woodman. The striker also got booked for undressing in his celebrations! The final whistle came and United’s players and staff left the pitch but returned to collect their medals and the runners up trophy was held aloft by skipper Sharp. The players moved around the pitch for the customary lap of honour but wearing medals and a trophy, after a promotion, it always feels better of course! The fans left the Lane for the last time this season and everyone was smiling before the party scenes continued into the streets and pubs around the Lane with London Road being particularly lively!
United – A really professional performance where we too good for a poor Preston side who looked dead on their feet by the end – which is weird as most of our players have been celebrating the last few days and may not have been their freshest! United were excellent in that they moved the ball around and looked a confident side. First half we played a lot of one touch stuff and then got it to McAtee and Ndiaye and the latter was in the mood and showed some incredible touches and skills. Preston stayed in the game but after Ahmedhodzic scored, we could have had a few more and Woodman made some good saves. After the break we had more chances (they had one too) and it seemed like we were toying with them almost but then a mistake from Wes and they get it back forward and score. They sensed an unlikely win but the changes we made helped give us another boost and we just seemed to step it up again and went and scored again – then more after this. Jebbison (and Fleck) were really good when they came on and the former looked strong, quick and made better decisions. You felt we might score every time we attacked at times and watching Ndiaye just dribbling round them was a joy to see. The 4-1 scoreline was about right in terms of chances and possession over the game.
With the pressure off, United made changes to the side but we did not really miss a beat and in the end, it was an assured and dominant performance. Worryingly for Preston, we did not really get out of first or second gear and that shows the difference between Burnley/us and some of the others- which is reflected in the table/points gap. I am glad we put on a performance and did not just go through the motions – that is important for us and other teams still playing for things. Sure, we will see changes again for the next game (would like to see Jebbison and Ndiaye have a game together) but Huddersfield will have something to play for -even if they win today, they are not quite safe but if they fail to beat Cardiff then they will have to get something against us and could confirm safety when they play us. United in relaxed mood can go there and express themselves against a poor side and I hope we can finish the season with two more wins – no reason why we cannot.
Off the field of course there is a lot of talk going on with the prince saying he wants to sell and could do quickly (not sure how that happens - been nearly a year and he’s wasted his time with two jokers essentially?) and now we are up we will have more interest. It needs sorting and we need some clarity soon but it still all seems a bit of a mess and could really hamper us next season and even further if this is not sorted.
I am concerned Hecky says he wants to keep most of the team (out of contract players) as suggests we are going to have little to spend but also many are/were not good enough last time (2nd season) and we need to move from the likes of Fleck, Stevens and possibly Sharp – as harsh as it sounds. We need better quality but saying we may only sign 5 or 6 is a worry as we will need more than that. A lot of those out of contract should be moved on- we should keep Wes, Norwood, Robinson and McBurnie but even those 4 would not be starting for me next season and be squad players. Discussions for next season are for another day but for now just want to enjoy these last few games and this last week and keep the celebrations going.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – Made an easy save in the first half but little to do but then made a really good one on one save to deny them after half time. His poor kick led directly to the goal though as they picked the ball up and scored almost straight after.
Bogle 5.5/10 – He was ok at times but generally another game where I am wanting and expecting more and it did not really happen. Had a few ok runs and touches but can’t recall many moments where he set anything up or got behind them? His passing and touch were sloppy and still does not react quick enough. Really worrying how he looks so far off the player we saw last season. A big summer waits for him.
Lowe 6.5/10 – He did his usual where he is often poor and slow first half but then improves second half. He was not as bad as he has been in the opening half and maybe not as good as he has been in the second half but does change his game weirdly after the break! He showed a few ok touches but also was a bit slow to move across. The goal came down his side but was kind of transition. He got well forward at times and was involved to support a number of attacks.
Robinson 7/10 – Steady as ever. Despite his bizarre hand ball (just caught it when it was going over his head – not sure how that was not a booking), he played well again. Won his tackles, read the game well and also had a shot not far wide. Has become one of our most consistent players.
Ahmedhodzic 8/10 – He has excelled when playing that central position in the three and I do think that will eventually end up being his position here for us or another team. He is so composed on the ball and he comes out with it well and picks the right pass. His knack of getting goals continued too. He played really well and just strolled it although one poor tackle at the end should have been a penalty.
Basham 7/10 – As with Robinson on the other side, he played well and did what he had to. Mopped up and then tried to carry it out too. He made some interceptions and then got forward to support too and set up the final goal with a good cross.
Doyle 7.5/10 – Another good game where he was all energy, on the ball and moving it around. He had a few decent set plays – one for the goal and a few efforts on goal – one blocked and another well saved. He looks a player that you think will just get better and better – as he has so many good attributes
McAtee 6.5/10 – We saw those flashes where he gets on it and comes at the defence and you think something will happen but did not quite click today. Had a one on one he missed when he should have scored and got tripped a few times but not quite as involved as you would want. Still great to have him on the break when we do attack though.
Norwood 6/10 – Some good stuff but some unnecessary over play or showboating too. He seems obsessed with playing the ball with the outside of his foot when it is not needed most of the time. He did play some decent balls but gave it away a bit too. It was all too easy though so he could kind of ease through it.
Ndiaye 8/10 – The best player on the pitch and not even that close. All game the ball seemed almost tied to his feet as he ran at defenders, weaved and jinked and a constant nuisance. Showed his running, upper body strength and his decision making too. He set up McAtee first half for a chance and then should have scored himself early into the second half but took too long after a mazy run. Continued to be a threat and linked well with Jebbison and could be something we may see more of in the final games? He loves his football and after he scored (a great finish) he came off and had a huge smile on his face. Hopefully it is not the last time we saw of him at the Lane – he is surely destined for bigger and better things one day but hope it is not yet though and he stays for another season.
Sharp 4/10 - Not his day at all despite everyone willing him to get that 250th goal but after some good sub appearances – he looked way off it today. He kept giving away cheap fouls and was behind his man a lot. Did not have any chances or look remotely like scoring and was right for him to be taken off – we improved hugely when Jebbison came on to give Ndiaye some support.
Subs –
Jebbison 8/10 – Excellent. We have seen glimpses at times where he has looked good but then other times he has looked out of his depth – suppose you get that with a young kid. However today he was superb and looked strong, powerful, quick and dangerous. He made the right choices too. He set up Fleck’s with a great back flick and then on the third he sort of rag dolled his man and ran through and put it on a plate for Ndiaye. He had a few other runs and Preston could not handle him. We have to see more of that.
Berge 7.5/10 – Preston must have looked up and saw him coming on and thought it was almost not fair. Had a few good runs down the right and at times just glided past his men and helped us play keep ball. Not a bad sub to come on!
Fleck 7.5/10 – He did well and like Sharp, almost seems better with these cameos than when they have started. He got in and drove forward to score via a deflection which was a nice moment for him if it was his last game at the Lane. He was really busy and involved in the time he was on and helped us create several opportunities.
McBurnie – Helped us keep the ball and we had those little triangles down the right and then capped it with a good volleyed finish – nice to see him and Ndiaye both scoring at the end.
Egan – Brought on at the death but more to allow Robinson to get an ovation possibly as the game was done.
Manager: Heckingbottom 8/10 – Changed the side and rotated within the game too and we won easily really just upping it when we needed to. Credit to the coaching staff as they got them up and prepared for a game they easily could have just sacked off and another convincing win – to reel off all four at home shows how ruthless we have been. Expect him to rotate a bit more in the final few games.
Preston – I thought even with a few out and us in confident mood, they would exploit our excesses of the week – the Wembley semi and then the promotion game – followed by the players drinking into the early hours of Thursday morning. However, Preston were awful for the most part and the Blades did not have to do much to beat them. We went 1-0 up at the break and it could have been more as Preston defended quite deep and did not really have a proper go at us – which was surprising as they had to win? They did get level against the run of play with a good cross and well taken finish but they then sat back again and we went and just upped it again. They then fell apart and could cope with Jebbison and Ndiaye. It went to three and four and it could have been more. In the end they were well beaten.
For them to be anywhere near the top 6 is remarkable though with their budget as Lowe spoke about pre game. We of course have parachute payments, bigger wages and a deeper squad so it is hard for Preston to compete with the likes of us. They have done well to get close and have had good runs but lost a few key men. Every season they seem to be nowhere near the bottom and comfortable – sometimes flirting with the playoffs. Seem a well-run club in this sense but fans of course would want more investment somehow to push them further as without it – will always be hard to get in the nix at the top end – with three teams coming down and then often a number of other sides with financial weight – they face an uphill task. This shows how well they have done really and as I say if you lose a few key men then it is even harder. Lowe seems to have done a really good job there though and they always seem competitive in most games – that is why the way they capitulated today was probably so disappointing for them to finish their season like this.
Opponent Man of the Match – Possibly the sub-Delap. He scored, had another good run and had an appeal for a penalty turned down. Outside of him, the keeper Woodman made a number of saves and kept the score down probably. Onomah in midfield showed a few glimpses of good play too.
Opponent Weak link – Thought the defence struggled with Ndiaye, McAtee and then Jebbison’s pace, running and skill. None of the three centre backs covered themselves in glory and the lad Storey came off at half time. Bauer and Hughes were both slow and immobile and the former was turned inside out by Ndiaye – then Jebbison after he came on.
The two loan lads up front did not really get in the game at all and only had one chance which Wes saved from Cannon. I always used to like the lad Johnson in midfield but recent games versus us, he has been poor – today he booted one clearance right into the Kop under no pressure.
Referee/Officials – Steve Martin. Another ref who seemed to get in the way a lot and his positioning was not the best. Booked three players – one for them a blatant trip and could have booked a few more as Ndiaye and McAtee took some hammer. The McBurnie and Ndiaye yellows were for taking their shirts off – which I can never understand really – the rule or why you would do it? The rest of the game he was ok but it was not the hardest games to ref. He did not get much help from his assistants who both guesses at most of their decisions and the ref had to give some as they did not! He did miss a fairly blatant penalty I thought at 3-1 when Anel tripped Delap.
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – It was good to see the Lane packed again and it was a party atmosphere as the fans just could relax. The team treated them to another win and some lovely football and goals too. It was quiet for spells but when you are up and had the big games recently (cup semi and promotion sealing game) then there is always going to be a bit of a lull. It got noisier towards the end when we turned it on again and then of course most fans stayed to watch the players get their medals. Good they introduced most individually and allowed them all to get that personal acclaim with some cheers/chants louder than others of course.
After the game went to the Beer Engine and then the Clubhouse and it was lively at the latter. I was there later (heard a few were being a bit stupid, allegedly throwing bottles and cans at police and some theft from Aldi nearby) and it was mostly good natured when I got there. There were flares aplenty, fireworks going off and a lot of singing and dancing. Pity those who have to do the clean up today though! Overall, another great day and a fantastic week in the history of Sheffield United.
