Post by deadbat on Dec 9, 2023 22:02:58 GMT
Chris Wilder got his first victory back as manager as the Blades deservedly beat Brentford at Bramall Lane thanks to James McAtee’s wonder strike. United were full value for their win as they got in front and created the better opportunities of the two sides and defended resolutely and were compact, organised and committed throughout. The difference in the United side, even in a week has been startling and a great deal of credit must go to the incoming management team who has got the side playing with a belief, togetherness and new found confidence. This was by no means a lucky win and showed that with a plan and effort, both individually and collectively, that the Blades can hang with some sides at this level. Despite playing catch up, Wilder will have belief that United can at least try and stay in the hunt to stay in this league despite some incredibly tough games to come with Chelsea, Villa, and City on the road with only a game at home at Luton that looks a potential for points.
Today, Wilder kept faith with the same side from the week despite a quick turnaround but with little options for rotation, it was not a surprise. Norwood and McBurnie were both suspended and Fleck was injured, so on the bench were youngsters One and Peck. Brentford, like the home side, were beset with injuries with key man Mbuemo joining several other key men on the sidelines. Talisman Ivan Toney remained suspended.
The game started in dreadful conditions with torrential rain coupled with wind making it difficult for both sides. United won an early corner but Hamer overhit the delivery. United were looking solid at the back and Archer was a threat on the break. The Blades had begun well and had pockets of decent football in the opening 15 minutes without creating much before the away side started to have more possession and gradually started to control midfield.
Trusty was booked for his foul on Lewis Potter before after the ball ran loose, Onyeka caught Souza leading to a yellow card and a subsequent check for a red. Replays suggested it could have been upgraded such was the danger of the tackle as the Bees man caught the Brazilian on the angle but the original decision stood. The game was scrappy with United looking for McAtee and Hamer to get on the ball but Brentford were attacking well down the right side and Wissa’s pace meant Robinson had to be alert. The game was not helped by atrocious rain lashing down and there was a lack of fluidity from both sides.
Onyeka had the first effort on goal but was comfortable for Foderingham before Osula broke down the right but fired into the side netting. Brentford beat the offside trap down the left and as the ball was squared back, Maupay was poised to strike but took too long and Robinson managed to get back to make the vital block. This was a big moment as the game ticked into three minutes of stoppage time and United were able to get the vital breakthrough inside the first minute.
Archer ran down the left taking defenders away and then moved the ball across and Pinnock failed to get the distance on the clearance and Hamer fed MCATEE. The loanee was well out wide but came inside and from the corner of the box curled an absolute beauty that dipped into the far corner giving Flekken no chance. It was a superb strike and came out of nowhere but showed the City man’s individual talent and confidence.
The second half saw Brentford make an immediate change as Yarmoliuk replaced Onyeka before the game resumed. However, it was the home side who began where they left off. A lovely free kick from Hamer narrowly evaded a number of players with Ahmedhodzic the closest to it, although a free kick was mysteriously given. Osula was booked for a foul on Pinnock but soon after Hamer and Archer linked but the latter could not get his shot away. Osula’s race was ran and Slimane came on with Archer going into a more central role.
The Tunisian was instantly involved with some neat skill down the left and then after Archer broke and put over a superb cross, he hit the legs of Flekken when he probably should have doubled the Blades lead.
Archer then fed Slimane again and his effort, from longer range, made the keeper have to scramble low down to make the save. United were winning the battles in midfield with Souza looking every inch the player the Blades thought they had signed and Hamer and McAtee were working hard in front of him. Brentford had struggled for ideas and Ahemedhodzic got his foot in to deny Wissa who looked to break. Olakigbe and Damsgaard came on for Lewis Potter and Baptiste just past the hour
United continued to look the more likely with Mee’s last ditch tackle denying Archer right in front of goal after Brooks excellent cross and then Archer had another chance that was blocked and could not sort his feet out on the rebound. Lowe replaced Brooks who got a great hand from the home crowd as the belief continued to rise on the terraces. McAtee’s run inside nearly fed Archer again as the clock ticked down.
Brentford had offered little but out of nowhere the ball dropped for Wissa who hit a volley that Foderingham had to spring to his left to clutch and then Robinson had to be alert to sniff out danger down the right hand side. Flekken then beat out an Archer effort before Slimane did well again to rob the Brentford defender and cut inside but ill-advisedly went for goal at the near post and only hit the side netting with players better placed perhaps in the middle. Peck came on for his league debut with McAtee giving away.
Brentford put more men forward but were relying on long throws and high balls rather than any real incisive football that picked United off. Ahmedhodzic blocked Mee from one such ball in the box and then Bogle, Foderingham and Robinson were booked in the closing stages. The latter’s foul, in the 6 minutes of stoppage time, stopped a good break and led to a free kick taken by Flekken deep in the United half but the Blades stood firm. There were more balls to come in the box and one very late free kick with appeals for a penalty for handball some concern for most of the fans inside Bramall Lane but this was checked and waved away before the final whistle came to great joy from the wet, soggy but happy home fans.
United – Just feels good to be a fan of United again. A week ago, we all felt rock bottom with Shearer calling us a disgrace on National TV. He was right. Now after a battling performance against Liverpool, where we remained in the game, we took it on and against a weaker side showed all the same qualities but also was far more of an attacking threat. We started well and played some nice stuff and were solid int the back and competitive across the field before the visitors started to have more of the ball and ended up controlling things for the middle part of the half but did not create anything really. The one chance when they beat the offside trap and Maupay was blocked when it seemed he might score was about the sum of it. We had the Osula effort and bits and pieces but then as the half ended, we became the stronger side again and McAtee scored a wonder goal. We have conceded early/late in both halves this season so nice of us to do it for once.
Second half I was shocked as normally we tire, sit back and then the oppositions superior quality and fitness/athleticism take over. The opposite happened today! We got stronger and had far more chances. Slimane x 2 and Archer x 2/3 had good chances or opportunities where we took the wrong decisions/could not quite get the shot away/stuck under their feet but all the chances were ours really. We played some good football on the break, held it up well and got men in support of the excellent Archer. Brentford kind of run out of ideas and had one volley at Wes but other than that, it was long throws and set plays and they did not cut us open at all. They of course had a few late free kicks and there was always a concern a ball may drop, but in the end we were worthy winners and by some distance.
Once again we looked solid, organised, and moved around as a team both on and off it. We got up the pitch when we could and had men in the box too. We had more chances today it seemed that many games put together this season. I thought we won the midfield battle and so many loose balls we got to first or made the tackles/challenges to stop them ever getting up a head of steam. Sure, the game was scrappy for long spells but that suited us and ironically the better football and incisive attacking play came from us and the only worry was a ball dropping from a long throw/corner which was of course often our only mode of attack a few weeks/months ago! In the end it would have been so frustrating if they got a draw but in the end we were really good value and 1-0 flattered them in the end. With another scratch team with key men like Egan, McBurnie, Baldock missing, we had to plug in youngsters again but Brooks did well again and continues to grow and Slimane also impressed when he came on. McAtee and Hamer looked the forward threats we thought we signed with the former scoring a tremendous goal out of nothing and showing good carrying/dribbling and the latter actually getting stuck in as well as using it when he could. The defence did what they had to and all were solid all game with Anel having a much-improved game. Bogle also continued his renaissance. I thought Archer was great and although maybe could have done better with some chances to score, he worked so hard and showed strength and hold up/work rate not sure I thought he had. He never gave them a minute all game and was a real menace.
What was pleasing was that it was not just scrapping/battling/tackling etc and winning duels (which we did today and won these battles overall) but we played some patient and intelligent football and moved it around nicely and got it forward at the right times. On and off the ball it was markedly better than what we have seen and then the fans fed off this improvement and everyone seemed together to carry each other to the finish line and get the big three points.
We are still bottom and with others winning/picking up points mixed with the tough games to come, staying up still seems very unlikely to me but we finally have some hope. We are not looking like an embarrassment and are competing and looking solid. Like Luton, we have a plan how to be in games and pick up points and showing a resilience too. Wilder has to take a lot of credit for this. Yes, we always thought we may see some improvements but the levels we have gone up has been incredible, albeit from a low starting point. Today, like the week, as Wilder would say, was a proper Sheffield United performance. The players worked hard, tried to play when they could and left nothing out there. In the end, it was a worthy win and a clean sheet too – the first of the season. They deserved the standing ovation and a far cry from two weeks ago, when hardly anyone was left in Bramall Lane after the Bournemouth defeat. This time, the whole ground seemed to be still there and were singing and applauding the side off. Deservedly so as their efforts merited such acclaim.
We have had so many weeks where you kind of just avoid media attention/reaction as you know they will basically be deriding the team/club but this week we can listen to some positive feedback and finally feel we are in the league – even if this upturn does prove to be short term (hope it is not) – and able to hang with some teams. We can enjoy a week now and the players get some rest until a difficult trip to Chelsea but we go there with some confidence – granted no Robinson (Suspended) that we avoid the humiliation of the last two away games (both 0-5) and at least remain in the game or not get completely walloped.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – A clean sheet and had very little do to. Saved one volley and another straight at him. Outside of that not sure he had much to do. Took a cross and headed one away (could have just stepped back and caught it) but was fine. A few moments of indecision where he kind of stopped at home and the defence (Robinson mainly!) looked annoyed he did not command. We have noticeably tried not to go back to him as much on his feet but when we did his kicking continued to be poor – kind of puts backspin on his kicks! We sure with Flecken how better a rival keeper was with dealing with balls back to him and managing to control it and find feet rather than just punting it. He also took a chance when he was messing around when Maupay was near it and blocked it on the free kick. His timewasting was annoying too and unnecessary today.
Bogle 7/10 – Once again showed a much higher level of performance than we saw in his games under Heckingbottom this season. Was closer to his man, got hit foot in and was sharper in everything yet again. He got into some good areas going forward when he could and first half had a few good dribbles/runs forward that drew defenders/midfielders across. He stuck to his task even though they had a few more chances down this side and had a lot of throws coming in but he defended well, like the rest of the side.
Trusty 6.5/10 –Another solid game although not helped by picking up an early booking for blocking his man off. Despite this he was able to stick to his task and again did ok. He won headers/blocks and kept to a good position. On the ball he struggles to advance much with it and is much more of a functional defender than maybe you expect as a full back but maybe we needed more solidity at this stage after shipping so many goals. He continued to be nice and solid and not sure they created much down the sides at all.
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – He has improved and got back to basics more with his no nonsense defending and making sure he does what he had to. He and Robinson have been solid both games this week other than a few lapses. He just did what he had to. I would say he made some hashes of clearances late on and the last 10 minutes at least three clearances were kicked/headed straight to Brentford and put us under pressure. Fortunately, they did not exploit these and we managed to see it out. On the ball his quality has been poor and he has resorted to just lumping it but maybe this is at least seeing it out of harms way. However, he got some great interceptions in and threw his body in the line with a few great blocks too.
Robinson 7/10 – Another solid showing. Won headers, tackles, and blocks and nice and solid. He did have my heart in my mouth a few times as he looked like he overplayed or was taking too many touches but on most occasions was very composed and calm. One moment second half felt he and Wes got into a confusion but we ended up clearing. His long throws were a threat until he got too tired to go up and waved them off! He picked up a booking near the end when he clattered his man which maybe was the right thing to do as they looked to break but now is suspended for next week – as he has hit 5 yellow cards. Another consistent performance from maybe our best player this season overall.
Brooks 7/10 – Thought he took on a promising full Premier League debut in the week and built on that to a very assured/good performance. First half he was good on and off the ball and when he had it, he tried to progress forward and his passing and link play was good. He nutmegged his man on one run and then got away on another. His confidence seemed to increase and he was one of our better players first half. Second half he did a few good things again and kept it simple. He did tire as the game went on and of course ran out of gas and was taken off but got a deserved standing ovation.
Souza 7/10 – Two good performances. I said in the week I was not sure he was as good as many said but acknowledge he did improve hugely and seemed to know his role more. He continued this and I felt he was better today in that we saw a bit of an all-around game. He still is a little slow to react to things and feel he can be more physical in challenges/headers and it takes him a while to turn/get going but was not helped by an awful tackle that really should have seen the Brentford man sent off. Weirdly this seemed to inspire him and felt he went up a level second half and made some good interceptions but also used the ball really well too. He went forward when he could do and was more progressive. He was sensible with it and just looked more like the player we thought we bought. Still think we can see more but he has had a really good week and his role seems more defined.
Hamer 7/10 – A better performance and another who is getting better and finding form again after a great start at the club and then dropping off a fair bit. Maybe it is down to where he is playing/positioned but I think it’s more than that and simply about confidence. I felt he put two or three great free kicks in that needed attacking but then a few overhit too. His touch as a bit off at times and seemed to surrender possession cheaply first half with passes that lacked accuracy or zip to reach his man. He kept going and a few better moments where he came out of some tight spots 2nd half. On the ball he was not as influential as others but he did a lot of great defensive work and worked very hard. A few foot ins and chases backs were all important. Still think he needs to get fitter and be more involved but he has improved since Wilder came in, just in terms of his influence and being central has helped. Great chase back at the end to see the ball out for a goal kick.
McAtee 7.5/10 – He scored a wonder goal and was one of our main threats throughout the game. He saw more of the ball today than maybe any other game and that is the best he has been for a full game – and matched the high standards he set against Wolves where he was our best player 2nd half. He sort of flitted in and out to start but always looked to get on it and then the goal is superb. Sheer brilliance and not even a half chance and clearly meant it as his effort dipped and curled into the top corner. He got such confidence from this and 2nd half he got even better and showed some real almost arrogance as he got on the ball and dribbled and drove at the defence. He was able to help us keep it up the field and his close control and dribbling always saw us look a threat. He worked very hard too and did some of the defensive stuff before he came off for Peck as we looked to see the game out.
Archer 7.5/10 – Thought he continued his good performance Wednesday and today he was even better. His work rate was excellent and he held it up, chased the channels and looked strong with his ability to shield and bring others in. He was wide left to begin with and had some good dribbles and runs but he also was able to get in front of his man and help us keep the ball up the top of the field. Second half he was a constant menace and never gave them a minute. Granted he maybe got a few half to good chances stuck under his foot when well placed but he got in great areas and then had a few other slaloms runs where he managed to have shots just wide or blocked. He really surprised me the last few games how strong he has been and has managed to get his body in front of defenders and showed real determination. Deserved a goal for his effort today – joint man of the match with McAtee. Looks a completely different player with hunger and positivity since Wilder came in.
Osula 4/10 – As Wilder said himself, I thought it was a bit of a struggle and our weakest player as harsh as that sounds. He tried hard but was behind the play, lost the physical battles and had very few touches. He did not read things very well and often made poor runs when we did break. He was not even much of a nuisance and for a big lad gets bullied quite easily. I think there is some promise but he looks a long way off and shows our paucity of options up top at the moment. We looked more threatening when he went off weirdly even without a striker per se up front. McBurnie will come back in next week and with this new formation I think he will be a real asset with the likes of Archer and McAtee wide and the ball maybe sticking even more.
Subs –
Slimane 7/10 – Been a lot of discussion about why he has not had a chance so far but probably Heckingbottom and the coaching staff have felt he was not ready and even Wilder in the week. He came on and played wide left but really impressed. Got around the pitch, used it well and an attacking threat. Looked mobile and covered ground. He showed some neat skills and linked with others and then had a great chance when he got into a great area and then did not get enough on it. A big miss. He had another chance when he robbed the ball and cut in but then wasted his hard work and selfishly shot. Continued to do some good things but then near the end a few errant touches too. A promising debut though and good to see him whipping up the Kop on a corner.
Lowe 6.5/10 – Came on and did ok. He defended what he had to and actually got forward to support too. Got his foot in a few times too. Just did his job.
Peck – Showed that Wilder is not scared to give youngsters a chance despite the notion from before he was reluctant to do this. He came on and tried to help the midfield with chasing/harrying. Not sure he had many touches but contributed to us keeping it out.
Manager: Wilder 8/10 (yes, he should have had 7/10 not 6/10 in the week when I harshly and wrongly marked him v Liverpool) – He has made a huge difference. Even in a week. We seemed more drilled, organised and compact. We move as units together with and without the ball and just look a more organised and professional outfit. We don’t concede tons of chances (at the moment) and look more solid. We also look much better going forward and have created as much today than maybe we have all season – granted not clear effort or lots on target but we had lots of opportunities in the box and only the ball getting stuck or a keeper save or poor choices stopped us scoring more. I felt we looked the more likely second half. I loved the positive approach 2nd half. The first half was quite even but then we got the goal and after the break we looked to continue attacking and this was our best form of defence. Wilder had the side not sitting back and we tried to get another rather than just hold what we have. It is remarkable how to a man we have improved but collectively we have been able to just look a better unit and look like we kind of belong. His enthusiasm for the game is clear, as is his love for the club and this is kind of rubbing off on others who are playing more care free but also oddly with more discipline too.
Brentford – They do have a number of injuries (like us of course) but I thought they were really poor today. We began better and then they sort of came into it and had a lot of possession but not sure they created much (one Maupay chance blocked) and for all their passing it around, they did very little and then we of course took the lead.
I expected them to come out have a real go 2nd half but it did not happen at all and if anything we improved and should have finished the game really. They made changes but it was all huff and puff stuff and looked like we did earlier in the season where we could not create much at all from open play. They had one volley and a few moments from set plays where it became a scramble but were oddly relying on set plays and corners. In general play they did not really threaten much at all and not sure they had any/many chances that were clear all game. They had a few half hearted appeals at the end but deserved nothing and in the end 1-0 flattered them on play/chances even if the stats maybe do not show that. We had so many opportunities to finish the game but made the wrong decisions or the ball got stuck.
It would have been most undeserved if they had stolen a point. I get they have injuries but they looked a bit clueless really today and United also looked more up for it, winning a lot of loose stuff and they things we needed to in order to keep the ball up the field and see out the game. Sure, when they get players back and they find some cohesion again they will be ok and expect them to be at least middle of the league. Frank has done a great job and of course the scouting they do off the field means they can always recruit well. They are a fantastic example without spending a ton (least player wise) that with a solid plan you can be competitive at the highest level.
Opponent Man of the Match – Mee showed some good defensive work and Pinnock was the stand out for me; a threat attacking wise on headers and seemed to be very imposing in general play ands on set plays. Defensively Archer and McAtee got them facing their own way and kept them back. Damsgaard did improve them with some decent set plays/delivery but they had little up top really. Wissa maybe was the main threat but despite him running off us a few times we just got in and made a few vital tackles/interceptions. Keane Potter was lively but ran out of magic by the 2nd half.
Opponent Weak link – Thought Maupay dived all game and spent more time on the turf than on his feet. However, Onyeka committed one foul even before the shocking tackle on Sousa and lucky to stay on. They hooked him at half time to stop him maybe getting another yellow – so he takes this award.
Referee/Officials – Stuart Attwell. We got 5 bookings to their one which seems incredible as they put in some challenges as poor as we did really. Trusty got one early for a foul and then Foderingham got one at the end for time wasting. Bogle’s seemed soft? Was it kicking the ball away and Osula also seemed for little. The Robinson one was fair enough for a cynical block off near the end. Onyeka got a yellow but it should have been red. Not sure how they did not upgrade this – it was high and late and dangerous. The same lad should have been booked twice before for fouls on Archer and then the take down of Brooks after the nutmeg. Then he survives a clear red too! We have had some poor decisions the last few after having some maybe in our favour versus Wolves and Brighton. I thought that Attwell was odd today. He started off giving everything as long as you went to floor – Maupay was the chief cheat. It was really frustrating how he kept blowing but then as the game went on, he let things flow and changed his approach and waved players away on both teams for trying to get fouls. He was very theatrical in his reactions with some outlandish points for free kicks or waving of his arms to play on. A few appeals for penalties but not sure anything was clear. Not sure anything he did affect the game but thought he was inconsistent in his approach but will say 2nd half he let the teams play which is what you kind of want. Too much seemed to be unclear though from start to finish and you never knew what kind of decision he might give. I also watched him and he was not even looking at some things and sort of guesses or ignored obvious things. Bizarre for an experienced ref to not even be looking at play/where the ball is and happened quite a bit. No idea what happened at the end when he delayed things and made the keeper move a ball off the pitch? Bizarre. Did this really matter?
Matchday/Crowd – In filthy weather, the players efforts saw the crowd really up for it. As the game went on and we continued to grow in everything we did, the fans responded really well and helped us get over the line. Wilder is right – if we put effort in and show we care – the crowd will respond and back them and we have seen some hard work, passion and grit in both of the two home games this week. As the game went on, you could see the fans respond to every tackle and chase back and the roar on the final whistle was incredibly loud. A week later after we were so low in every sense, we have some hope and belief again. Now it is not just about if we can beat Derby’s record, but if we can stay in this little pack and maybe have a go at potentially staying in this league. Granted we have some tough games to come of course. For now, it’s just nice to win and not be embarrassed after a season where we were just not even in games for the most part. Now we go to Chelsea knowing it will be hard but can go and have a go. I will be there so hopefully get a report in for Sunday morning if not too hungover!
Today, Wilder kept faith with the same side from the week despite a quick turnaround but with little options for rotation, it was not a surprise. Norwood and McBurnie were both suspended and Fleck was injured, so on the bench were youngsters One and Peck. Brentford, like the home side, were beset with injuries with key man Mbuemo joining several other key men on the sidelines. Talisman Ivan Toney remained suspended.
The game started in dreadful conditions with torrential rain coupled with wind making it difficult for both sides. United won an early corner but Hamer overhit the delivery. United were looking solid at the back and Archer was a threat on the break. The Blades had begun well and had pockets of decent football in the opening 15 minutes without creating much before the away side started to have more possession and gradually started to control midfield.
Trusty was booked for his foul on Lewis Potter before after the ball ran loose, Onyeka caught Souza leading to a yellow card and a subsequent check for a red. Replays suggested it could have been upgraded such was the danger of the tackle as the Bees man caught the Brazilian on the angle but the original decision stood. The game was scrappy with United looking for McAtee and Hamer to get on the ball but Brentford were attacking well down the right side and Wissa’s pace meant Robinson had to be alert. The game was not helped by atrocious rain lashing down and there was a lack of fluidity from both sides.
Onyeka had the first effort on goal but was comfortable for Foderingham before Osula broke down the right but fired into the side netting. Brentford beat the offside trap down the left and as the ball was squared back, Maupay was poised to strike but took too long and Robinson managed to get back to make the vital block. This was a big moment as the game ticked into three minutes of stoppage time and United were able to get the vital breakthrough inside the first minute.
Archer ran down the left taking defenders away and then moved the ball across and Pinnock failed to get the distance on the clearance and Hamer fed MCATEE. The loanee was well out wide but came inside and from the corner of the box curled an absolute beauty that dipped into the far corner giving Flekken no chance. It was a superb strike and came out of nowhere but showed the City man’s individual talent and confidence.
The second half saw Brentford make an immediate change as Yarmoliuk replaced Onyeka before the game resumed. However, it was the home side who began where they left off. A lovely free kick from Hamer narrowly evaded a number of players with Ahmedhodzic the closest to it, although a free kick was mysteriously given. Osula was booked for a foul on Pinnock but soon after Hamer and Archer linked but the latter could not get his shot away. Osula’s race was ran and Slimane came on with Archer going into a more central role.
The Tunisian was instantly involved with some neat skill down the left and then after Archer broke and put over a superb cross, he hit the legs of Flekken when he probably should have doubled the Blades lead.
Archer then fed Slimane again and his effort, from longer range, made the keeper have to scramble low down to make the save. United were winning the battles in midfield with Souza looking every inch the player the Blades thought they had signed and Hamer and McAtee were working hard in front of him. Brentford had struggled for ideas and Ahemedhodzic got his foot in to deny Wissa who looked to break. Olakigbe and Damsgaard came on for Lewis Potter and Baptiste just past the hour
United continued to look the more likely with Mee’s last ditch tackle denying Archer right in front of goal after Brooks excellent cross and then Archer had another chance that was blocked and could not sort his feet out on the rebound. Lowe replaced Brooks who got a great hand from the home crowd as the belief continued to rise on the terraces. McAtee’s run inside nearly fed Archer again as the clock ticked down.
Brentford had offered little but out of nowhere the ball dropped for Wissa who hit a volley that Foderingham had to spring to his left to clutch and then Robinson had to be alert to sniff out danger down the right hand side. Flekken then beat out an Archer effort before Slimane did well again to rob the Brentford defender and cut inside but ill-advisedly went for goal at the near post and only hit the side netting with players better placed perhaps in the middle. Peck came on for his league debut with McAtee giving away.
Brentford put more men forward but were relying on long throws and high balls rather than any real incisive football that picked United off. Ahmedhodzic blocked Mee from one such ball in the box and then Bogle, Foderingham and Robinson were booked in the closing stages. The latter’s foul, in the 6 minutes of stoppage time, stopped a good break and led to a free kick taken by Flekken deep in the United half but the Blades stood firm. There were more balls to come in the box and one very late free kick with appeals for a penalty for handball some concern for most of the fans inside Bramall Lane but this was checked and waved away before the final whistle came to great joy from the wet, soggy but happy home fans.
United – Just feels good to be a fan of United again. A week ago, we all felt rock bottom with Shearer calling us a disgrace on National TV. He was right. Now after a battling performance against Liverpool, where we remained in the game, we took it on and against a weaker side showed all the same qualities but also was far more of an attacking threat. We started well and played some nice stuff and were solid int the back and competitive across the field before the visitors started to have more of the ball and ended up controlling things for the middle part of the half but did not create anything really. The one chance when they beat the offside trap and Maupay was blocked when it seemed he might score was about the sum of it. We had the Osula effort and bits and pieces but then as the half ended, we became the stronger side again and McAtee scored a wonder goal. We have conceded early/late in both halves this season so nice of us to do it for once.
Second half I was shocked as normally we tire, sit back and then the oppositions superior quality and fitness/athleticism take over. The opposite happened today! We got stronger and had far more chances. Slimane x 2 and Archer x 2/3 had good chances or opportunities where we took the wrong decisions/could not quite get the shot away/stuck under their feet but all the chances were ours really. We played some good football on the break, held it up well and got men in support of the excellent Archer. Brentford kind of run out of ideas and had one volley at Wes but other than that, it was long throws and set plays and they did not cut us open at all. They of course had a few late free kicks and there was always a concern a ball may drop, but in the end we were worthy winners and by some distance.
Once again we looked solid, organised, and moved around as a team both on and off it. We got up the pitch when we could and had men in the box too. We had more chances today it seemed that many games put together this season. I thought we won the midfield battle and so many loose balls we got to first or made the tackles/challenges to stop them ever getting up a head of steam. Sure, the game was scrappy for long spells but that suited us and ironically the better football and incisive attacking play came from us and the only worry was a ball dropping from a long throw/corner which was of course often our only mode of attack a few weeks/months ago! In the end it would have been so frustrating if they got a draw but in the end we were really good value and 1-0 flattered them in the end. With another scratch team with key men like Egan, McBurnie, Baldock missing, we had to plug in youngsters again but Brooks did well again and continues to grow and Slimane also impressed when he came on. McAtee and Hamer looked the forward threats we thought we signed with the former scoring a tremendous goal out of nothing and showing good carrying/dribbling and the latter actually getting stuck in as well as using it when he could. The defence did what they had to and all were solid all game with Anel having a much-improved game. Bogle also continued his renaissance. I thought Archer was great and although maybe could have done better with some chances to score, he worked so hard and showed strength and hold up/work rate not sure I thought he had. He never gave them a minute all game and was a real menace.
What was pleasing was that it was not just scrapping/battling/tackling etc and winning duels (which we did today and won these battles overall) but we played some patient and intelligent football and moved it around nicely and got it forward at the right times. On and off the ball it was markedly better than what we have seen and then the fans fed off this improvement and everyone seemed together to carry each other to the finish line and get the big three points.
We are still bottom and with others winning/picking up points mixed with the tough games to come, staying up still seems very unlikely to me but we finally have some hope. We are not looking like an embarrassment and are competing and looking solid. Like Luton, we have a plan how to be in games and pick up points and showing a resilience too. Wilder has to take a lot of credit for this. Yes, we always thought we may see some improvements but the levels we have gone up has been incredible, albeit from a low starting point. Today, like the week, as Wilder would say, was a proper Sheffield United performance. The players worked hard, tried to play when they could and left nothing out there. In the end, it was a worthy win and a clean sheet too – the first of the season. They deserved the standing ovation and a far cry from two weeks ago, when hardly anyone was left in Bramall Lane after the Bournemouth defeat. This time, the whole ground seemed to be still there and were singing and applauding the side off. Deservedly so as their efforts merited such acclaim.
We have had so many weeks where you kind of just avoid media attention/reaction as you know they will basically be deriding the team/club but this week we can listen to some positive feedback and finally feel we are in the league – even if this upturn does prove to be short term (hope it is not) – and able to hang with some teams. We can enjoy a week now and the players get some rest until a difficult trip to Chelsea but we go there with some confidence – granted no Robinson (Suspended) that we avoid the humiliation of the last two away games (both 0-5) and at least remain in the game or not get completely walloped.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – A clean sheet and had very little do to. Saved one volley and another straight at him. Outside of that not sure he had much to do. Took a cross and headed one away (could have just stepped back and caught it) but was fine. A few moments of indecision where he kind of stopped at home and the defence (Robinson mainly!) looked annoyed he did not command. We have noticeably tried not to go back to him as much on his feet but when we did his kicking continued to be poor – kind of puts backspin on his kicks! We sure with Flecken how better a rival keeper was with dealing with balls back to him and managing to control it and find feet rather than just punting it. He also took a chance when he was messing around when Maupay was near it and blocked it on the free kick. His timewasting was annoying too and unnecessary today.
Bogle 7/10 – Once again showed a much higher level of performance than we saw in his games under Heckingbottom this season. Was closer to his man, got hit foot in and was sharper in everything yet again. He got into some good areas going forward when he could and first half had a few good dribbles/runs forward that drew defenders/midfielders across. He stuck to his task even though they had a few more chances down this side and had a lot of throws coming in but he defended well, like the rest of the side.
Trusty 6.5/10 –Another solid game although not helped by picking up an early booking for blocking his man off. Despite this he was able to stick to his task and again did ok. He won headers/blocks and kept to a good position. On the ball he struggles to advance much with it and is much more of a functional defender than maybe you expect as a full back but maybe we needed more solidity at this stage after shipping so many goals. He continued to be nice and solid and not sure they created much down the sides at all.
Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – He has improved and got back to basics more with his no nonsense defending and making sure he does what he had to. He and Robinson have been solid both games this week other than a few lapses. He just did what he had to. I would say he made some hashes of clearances late on and the last 10 minutes at least three clearances were kicked/headed straight to Brentford and put us under pressure. Fortunately, they did not exploit these and we managed to see it out. On the ball his quality has been poor and he has resorted to just lumping it but maybe this is at least seeing it out of harms way. However, he got some great interceptions in and threw his body in the line with a few great blocks too.
Robinson 7/10 – Another solid showing. Won headers, tackles, and blocks and nice and solid. He did have my heart in my mouth a few times as he looked like he overplayed or was taking too many touches but on most occasions was very composed and calm. One moment second half felt he and Wes got into a confusion but we ended up clearing. His long throws were a threat until he got too tired to go up and waved them off! He picked up a booking near the end when he clattered his man which maybe was the right thing to do as they looked to break but now is suspended for next week – as he has hit 5 yellow cards. Another consistent performance from maybe our best player this season overall.
Brooks 7/10 – Thought he took on a promising full Premier League debut in the week and built on that to a very assured/good performance. First half he was good on and off the ball and when he had it, he tried to progress forward and his passing and link play was good. He nutmegged his man on one run and then got away on another. His confidence seemed to increase and he was one of our better players first half. Second half he did a few good things again and kept it simple. He did tire as the game went on and of course ran out of gas and was taken off but got a deserved standing ovation.
Souza 7/10 – Two good performances. I said in the week I was not sure he was as good as many said but acknowledge he did improve hugely and seemed to know his role more. He continued this and I felt he was better today in that we saw a bit of an all-around game. He still is a little slow to react to things and feel he can be more physical in challenges/headers and it takes him a while to turn/get going but was not helped by an awful tackle that really should have seen the Brentford man sent off. Weirdly this seemed to inspire him and felt he went up a level second half and made some good interceptions but also used the ball really well too. He went forward when he could do and was more progressive. He was sensible with it and just looked more like the player we thought we bought. Still think we can see more but he has had a really good week and his role seems more defined.
Hamer 7/10 – A better performance and another who is getting better and finding form again after a great start at the club and then dropping off a fair bit. Maybe it is down to where he is playing/positioned but I think it’s more than that and simply about confidence. I felt he put two or three great free kicks in that needed attacking but then a few overhit too. His touch as a bit off at times and seemed to surrender possession cheaply first half with passes that lacked accuracy or zip to reach his man. He kept going and a few better moments where he came out of some tight spots 2nd half. On the ball he was not as influential as others but he did a lot of great defensive work and worked very hard. A few foot ins and chases backs were all important. Still think he needs to get fitter and be more involved but he has improved since Wilder came in, just in terms of his influence and being central has helped. Great chase back at the end to see the ball out for a goal kick.
McAtee 7.5/10 – He scored a wonder goal and was one of our main threats throughout the game. He saw more of the ball today than maybe any other game and that is the best he has been for a full game – and matched the high standards he set against Wolves where he was our best player 2nd half. He sort of flitted in and out to start but always looked to get on it and then the goal is superb. Sheer brilliance and not even a half chance and clearly meant it as his effort dipped and curled into the top corner. He got such confidence from this and 2nd half he got even better and showed some real almost arrogance as he got on the ball and dribbled and drove at the defence. He was able to help us keep it up the field and his close control and dribbling always saw us look a threat. He worked very hard too and did some of the defensive stuff before he came off for Peck as we looked to see the game out.
Archer 7.5/10 – Thought he continued his good performance Wednesday and today he was even better. His work rate was excellent and he held it up, chased the channels and looked strong with his ability to shield and bring others in. He was wide left to begin with and had some good dribbles and runs but he also was able to get in front of his man and help us keep the ball up the top of the field. Second half he was a constant menace and never gave them a minute. Granted he maybe got a few half to good chances stuck under his foot when well placed but he got in great areas and then had a few other slaloms runs where he managed to have shots just wide or blocked. He really surprised me the last few games how strong he has been and has managed to get his body in front of defenders and showed real determination. Deserved a goal for his effort today – joint man of the match with McAtee. Looks a completely different player with hunger and positivity since Wilder came in.
Osula 4/10 – As Wilder said himself, I thought it was a bit of a struggle and our weakest player as harsh as that sounds. He tried hard but was behind the play, lost the physical battles and had very few touches. He did not read things very well and often made poor runs when we did break. He was not even much of a nuisance and for a big lad gets bullied quite easily. I think there is some promise but he looks a long way off and shows our paucity of options up top at the moment. We looked more threatening when he went off weirdly even without a striker per se up front. McBurnie will come back in next week and with this new formation I think he will be a real asset with the likes of Archer and McAtee wide and the ball maybe sticking even more.
Subs –
Slimane 7/10 – Been a lot of discussion about why he has not had a chance so far but probably Heckingbottom and the coaching staff have felt he was not ready and even Wilder in the week. He came on and played wide left but really impressed. Got around the pitch, used it well and an attacking threat. Looked mobile and covered ground. He showed some neat skills and linked with others and then had a great chance when he got into a great area and then did not get enough on it. A big miss. He had another chance when he robbed the ball and cut in but then wasted his hard work and selfishly shot. Continued to do some good things but then near the end a few errant touches too. A promising debut though and good to see him whipping up the Kop on a corner.
Lowe 6.5/10 – Came on and did ok. He defended what he had to and actually got forward to support too. Got his foot in a few times too. Just did his job.
Peck – Showed that Wilder is not scared to give youngsters a chance despite the notion from before he was reluctant to do this. He came on and tried to help the midfield with chasing/harrying. Not sure he had many touches but contributed to us keeping it out.
Manager: Wilder 8/10 (yes, he should have had 7/10 not 6/10 in the week when I harshly and wrongly marked him v Liverpool) – He has made a huge difference. Even in a week. We seemed more drilled, organised and compact. We move as units together with and without the ball and just look a more organised and professional outfit. We don’t concede tons of chances (at the moment) and look more solid. We also look much better going forward and have created as much today than maybe we have all season – granted not clear effort or lots on target but we had lots of opportunities in the box and only the ball getting stuck or a keeper save or poor choices stopped us scoring more. I felt we looked the more likely second half. I loved the positive approach 2nd half. The first half was quite even but then we got the goal and after the break we looked to continue attacking and this was our best form of defence. Wilder had the side not sitting back and we tried to get another rather than just hold what we have. It is remarkable how to a man we have improved but collectively we have been able to just look a better unit and look like we kind of belong. His enthusiasm for the game is clear, as is his love for the club and this is kind of rubbing off on others who are playing more care free but also oddly with more discipline too.
Brentford – They do have a number of injuries (like us of course) but I thought they were really poor today. We began better and then they sort of came into it and had a lot of possession but not sure they created much (one Maupay chance blocked) and for all their passing it around, they did very little and then we of course took the lead.
I expected them to come out have a real go 2nd half but it did not happen at all and if anything we improved and should have finished the game really. They made changes but it was all huff and puff stuff and looked like we did earlier in the season where we could not create much at all from open play. They had one volley and a few moments from set plays where it became a scramble but were oddly relying on set plays and corners. In general play they did not really threaten much at all and not sure they had any/many chances that were clear all game. They had a few half hearted appeals at the end but deserved nothing and in the end 1-0 flattered them on play/chances even if the stats maybe do not show that. We had so many opportunities to finish the game but made the wrong decisions or the ball got stuck.
It would have been most undeserved if they had stolen a point. I get they have injuries but they looked a bit clueless really today and United also looked more up for it, winning a lot of loose stuff and they things we needed to in order to keep the ball up the field and see out the game. Sure, when they get players back and they find some cohesion again they will be ok and expect them to be at least middle of the league. Frank has done a great job and of course the scouting they do off the field means they can always recruit well. They are a fantastic example without spending a ton (least player wise) that with a solid plan you can be competitive at the highest level.
Opponent Man of the Match – Mee showed some good defensive work and Pinnock was the stand out for me; a threat attacking wise on headers and seemed to be very imposing in general play ands on set plays. Defensively Archer and McAtee got them facing their own way and kept them back. Damsgaard did improve them with some decent set plays/delivery but they had little up top really. Wissa maybe was the main threat but despite him running off us a few times we just got in and made a few vital tackles/interceptions. Keane Potter was lively but ran out of magic by the 2nd half.
Opponent Weak link – Thought Maupay dived all game and spent more time on the turf than on his feet. However, Onyeka committed one foul even before the shocking tackle on Sousa and lucky to stay on. They hooked him at half time to stop him maybe getting another yellow – so he takes this award.
Referee/Officials – Stuart Attwell. We got 5 bookings to their one which seems incredible as they put in some challenges as poor as we did really. Trusty got one early for a foul and then Foderingham got one at the end for time wasting. Bogle’s seemed soft? Was it kicking the ball away and Osula also seemed for little. The Robinson one was fair enough for a cynical block off near the end. Onyeka got a yellow but it should have been red. Not sure how they did not upgrade this – it was high and late and dangerous. The same lad should have been booked twice before for fouls on Archer and then the take down of Brooks after the nutmeg. Then he survives a clear red too! We have had some poor decisions the last few after having some maybe in our favour versus Wolves and Brighton. I thought that Attwell was odd today. He started off giving everything as long as you went to floor – Maupay was the chief cheat. It was really frustrating how he kept blowing but then as the game went on, he let things flow and changed his approach and waved players away on both teams for trying to get fouls. He was very theatrical in his reactions with some outlandish points for free kicks or waving of his arms to play on. A few appeals for penalties but not sure anything was clear. Not sure anything he did affect the game but thought he was inconsistent in his approach but will say 2nd half he let the teams play which is what you kind of want. Too much seemed to be unclear though from start to finish and you never knew what kind of decision he might give. I also watched him and he was not even looking at some things and sort of guesses or ignored obvious things. Bizarre for an experienced ref to not even be looking at play/where the ball is and happened quite a bit. No idea what happened at the end when he delayed things and made the keeper move a ball off the pitch? Bizarre. Did this really matter?
Matchday/Crowd – In filthy weather, the players efforts saw the crowd really up for it. As the game went on and we continued to grow in everything we did, the fans responded really well and helped us get over the line. Wilder is right – if we put effort in and show we care – the crowd will respond and back them and we have seen some hard work, passion and grit in both of the two home games this week. As the game went on, you could see the fans respond to every tackle and chase back and the roar on the final whistle was incredibly loud. A week later after we were so low in every sense, we have some hope and belief again. Now it is not just about if we can beat Derby’s record, but if we can stay in this little pack and maybe have a go at potentially staying in this league. Granted we have some tough games to come of course. For now, it’s just nice to win and not be embarrassed after a season where we were just not even in games for the most part. Now we go to Chelsea knowing it will be hard but can go and have a go. I will be there so hopefully get a report in for Sunday morning if not too hungover!
