Post by deadbat on Jan 21, 2024 20:30:13 GMT
In their first league game for over three weeks, the Blades managed to take a point from an exciting contest at Bramall Lane with a late, late goal to deny West Ham taking the victory. The first half had seen United well in the game but West Ham had missed arguably the clearest chances before Cornet finished clinically after poor defending. The Blades got back into it thanks to a debut goal from Brereton Diaz who reacted well to score after Osula’s header had been saved. The home team then controlled long periods of the second half but missed opportunities or could not quite make their possession and territory count and got done on the break when Hamer brought down Ings. Ward Prowse’s finish seemed to have settled things but there was incredible drama to conclude the game. Brewster and Coufal both saw red cards before a penalty was given for Areola’s challenge on McBurnie. It seemed a rather fortunate penalty when watched on replay but after Areola had to be substituted due to getting injured in the challenge, McBurnie kept his cool to beat penalty expert Fabianski in the 103rd minute – the latest goal in Premier League history! There was still time for a strong appeal for a penalty at the other end as Bowen was wrestled to the ground by Ahmedhodzic but the decision went in favour of the Bosnian with David Moyes incensed.
Both teams had players missing or deemed not fit enough to start and Wilder sprang a few surprises too with McBurnie and Archer both left on the bench and Osula starting up front supported by new signing Brereton Diaz and McAtee. Ahmedhozic was back to start and captain but there was no place in the squad for George Baldock. West Ham were without some key players but Jarrod Bowen was back to start.
The game began with few real moments of goal mouth action as United tried to get on the ball and move it forward when they had the opportunity. Both teams were guilty of sloppy moments though with the swirling wind not helping. Brooks and Brereton Diaz had linked well down the left-hand side before Souza had a shot straight at Areola. West Ham had their first chance when the ball forward saw Ings get a touch and over Foderingham but it was not on target and United cleared. West Ham then had the best chance of the game as Souza gave the ball away in midfield and it was eventually switched to Bowen but he dragged his shot wide despite being in on goal down the left.
West Ham had created the best two chances but United were matching the visitors and Brooks blazed over after Hamer’s cross fell for him. Brereton Diaz then went through but the ball was played too late and after it was squared Osula’s guilt edged miss that was saved, was academic as the flag finally went up. Brooks continued to shot neat footwork and his nutmeg created space for a cross but Brereton Diaz’s effort lacked power as United were getting on top. Hamer’s free kick hit the wall and Trusty then headed straight at Areola from the set play.
However, despite the decent showing from the Blades, they fell behind on 28 minutes. West Ham were allowed to turn in the middle without any challenge and Coufal in turn played in a cross unopposed. Ings was similarly left in space but his shot hit a defender but fell for CORNET and he drilled the ball home beyond Foderingham. It was well finished but a poor goal to concede especially as United had been steadily starting to take control.
Hamer was booked after Robinson’s poor ball saw him drag Fornals down before Ward Prowse was booked for a trip on Bogle as he looked to break. With just a minute before the break, the Blades deservedly levelled. The ball was cleared but with West Ham defending deep, McAtee clipped a cross over which Trusty headed intelligently towards the back post. Osula headed goalwards and Areola managed to flick the ball away but BRERETON DIAZ managed to react to nick it away from Ward Prowse and smash the ball into the net for a debut goal. United will have been delighted to get back in the game as they had done some good things despite some similarly sloppy moments that allowed the Hammers chances of their own.
At the break Osula had to go off which will have been disappointing as he had been a handful in the first half. McBurnue replaced him. United began the second half on the front foot with McAtee involved in many of the promising attacks. One ball nearly found McBurnie before he overhit another cross soon after. Brooks continued to look neat and incisive and Hamer was more involved as the Blades looked to unpick the lock in the Hammers defence. Hamer’s centre was headed over by Trusty and then good football saw the ball deflect wide after a series of passes set up a half chance. United were the dominant force and had a superb chance to take the lead as the ball forward from McAtee found Brereton Diaz who beat the offside trap and was away. He cut in but opted to use his stronger right foot and pulled his shot badly wide with just the keeper to beat. It was a poor miss in a promising debut from the Villareal loan man. He came off on 67 minutes replaced by Archer before Brooks was cautioned for catching his man as West Ham looked to break.
United had not made Areola work at all despite controlling the half and so many good openings saw the lack of a final ball or execution. West Ham had offered nothing at all but then suddenly Ings had a low shot saved by Foderingham and then Ahmedhodzic was booked for a cynical foul. With 13 minutes to go, sub-Johnson, who had looked lively since entering the field was able to feed Ings and a clumsy challenge from Hamer sent the striker tumbling. It seemed an easy decision and sure enough the point to the spot followed. Hamer survived a second yellow card. WARD PROWSE scored with the minimum of fuss and despite the Blades being the better side, were behind.
Brewster and Norrington Davies came on for Trusty and Brooks but the goal had seemingly killed the Blades who became a bit erratic now with sloppy give aways and poor choices. They were trying to play it out too much and were caught leading to a chance for Bowen but he curled over. Norwood came on Souza but after the ball was played into the right side of the West Ham defence after the sub won a tackle, another Blades substitute Brewster left his feet and took out Emerson who was left writhing in agony. The initial award was just a yellow despite the Hammers players reacting and Coufal was booked for his protestations. VAR asked Michael Salisbury to take another look and after he went to look at the screen near the John Street Stand, then the inevitable upgrade to a red card came. In truth it was the correct decision and a ridiculous tackle continuing Brewster’s nightmare spell at the Lane.
The game ticked into 6 minutes of stoppage time and Coufal took out McAtee leading to a free kick for the Blades but before it could be taken, the visitors were now reduced to ten men as Coufal got his second yellow card and had to take the long walk. The free kick was cleared but McAtee sent it back in and McBurnie went down under the challenge of Areola. Replays showed he did not get the ball but it was debatable how much he got of the striker too but VAR did not see enough to overturn the decision. Areola had got hurt in making the challenge and after a long delay he had to go off replaced by Fabianski who has an excellent record of saving spot kicks. McAtee had the ball on the spot for a long period but it became clear this was a ploy and was given to MCBURNIE who after the long delay cooly converted down to Fabianski’s right hand side. The kick went in on 103 minutes!
There was still time for the Hammers to create another chance as a cross came over and both Ahmedhozic and Bowen went to ground but the referee gave the decision to the Blades. Once again replays showed United were fortunate to get the right side of this call as the Bosnian clearly had hold of the striker pulling him down. David Moyes was apoplectic once again that the decision went against his team. The final whistle went not long after and this pulsating and crazy game ended with honours even.
United – A strange one to assess really in that we did lots of good things in the game and were far more competitive than many games and had much more of the ball than we have in maybe any other game (except Brentford). It was a scrappy game with some really poor bits of play from both teams but we probably shaded the game probably over the whole contest but maybe they had the better chances if not the most chances. They led twice and the decisions went for us so on reflection a draw is about right.
The game began evenly with both teams guilty of squandering possession too easily but we had decent moments too. They had a few clear chances though with Ings and Bowen both being in on goal and missing the target whilst we had efforts from Brooks, Trusty and Souza and the latter two at least forced saves even if straight at him. It seemed we were starting to cause them problems with Brooks showing good moments and Osula a handful but then the goal we conceded saw no pressure on the ball on multiple occasions. The finish was decent but we should have closed them down and had a few chances to stop it even getting across to Corner. We did respond quite well and kept going and Brereton Diaz was on the spot to convert after a more ‘old school’ long cross and header found the chance for Osula. The latter had done well but obviously picked up a knock which was a shame as does seem to be getting better each game in terms of learning the game.
We had our best spell either side of the half time whistle and felt for 25 minutes second half we actually were the aggressor and had so many good chances to get good balls in or find an opening but despite us controlling things, we did not test the keeper enough (at all?) and outside of the big BBD chance, then not sure we had many clear chances? That was the big issue as we did lots of good things and got into some excellent areas with McAtee key to this. I felt if we kept plugging away we would get chances at the Kop End as the time went on but then they did have a few chances after doing nothing and we started giving away free kicks and then of course the stupid tackle on the penalty. Hamer was lucky not to get a second yellow -the first in a number of late decisions that I think went our way.
After the goal, we seemed to lose our heads a bit and were too slow to play it forward (a trait you could level at United all game as we clearly lack players comfortable in goal/or at the back to be able to play this way) and we started giving it away. They had chances to seal it with Bowen hitting one off target and another being blocked right in front of goal. We chucked men on but we did not look like getting back after being the better side for much of the second half and West Ham, despite being poor much of the second half now seemed like the team with more energy. The Brewster red card just seemed to put a seal on another desperately disappointing afternoon.
However, ill-discipline from Soucek saw him go off too and we get the late penalty. At the time I thought it was a foul and he had punched McBurnie, taking him out but replays showed that the ball went over the top of them and they both kind of come together. There is an argument the contact is more from the keeper but McBurnie make contact too – I was surprised he gave it and even though they tend to not overturn things, I thought VAR may have got involved. The delays and the keeper going off meant I was probably not confident we would score as Fabianski is decent on penalties but credit to McBurnie. After this we get lucky again with a fairly clear penalty for Anel grabbing Bowen but somehow VAR do not check this and we survive. This certainly seemed more of a penalty than ours and can understand Moyes being annoyed. For the second of the last three visits to the Lane, West Ham come out the wrong side of some controversial decisions.
Strange emotions as pleased to get the late point but of course in reality it does not really help us and on reflection (a bit like the Villa one where we got pegged back late) we will see it as a real opportunity missed. I thought we played ok and did well for long spells but poor decisions in both our final third and theirs meant we did not create enough clear chances and conceded too many. So, despite us having more possession (58%) and shots (21 to 16 – albeit only 6 to 5 on target) we did not really make some good stuff count. I have to admit I thought West Ham were quite poor and whilst they showed some decent moments and obviously led to two goals – the finish and the build up the penalty; I also thought they were nowhere near their best – some of that maybe down to our good play too – we maybe missed a really good chance to win the game despite the late drama. I thought United were very competitive though and we have not said that. Sure, there were some poor bits of play and giveaways/poor touches but West Ham were as guilty of that as us. This made it an exciting game – not due to lots of quality but due to it being full of incidents and a fair amount of goalmouth action too. It would have been devastating to lose – and the final nail in the coffin. We still are almost certainly down but at least we are getting the odd result here and there and not getting hammered. We should beat Derby’s record now. It is so hard though as now we go to a struggling Palace but they are due a result and a reaction and then we have really hard home games against Villa and Brighton. You just do not get many chances to get wins and thought second half we had just that opportunity. Maybe his is harsh and with West Ham being 6th, should applaud our efforts but I did feel they were a long way from their best and we maybe could have exploited that?
In the end though it is nice to come away with a late goal and an exciting finish where there are things to talk about. That is I suppose what football is about? Granted we are still rock bottom and the season does seem to be petering out but like last time when Hecky came in, we at least are competing in some games and not just rolling over. There were some real positives in that BBD did ok, Osula continued his improvements and Bogle played well too again – showing much better form under Wilder. Brooks was also excellent again and for me United’s best player and is slowly getting better too. With him, Osula and of course Arblaster to come in, we have three really promising young pieces to build around in the Championship. It was interesting today we did not have too many of the old guard (Wilder’s old guard?) in no Fleck, Norwood, McBurnie, Osborn, Egan, Baldock (granted last two injured) starting today. Maybe he realises he has to plan a bit for next season and there is a good chance many of those mentioned may not be here.
We have the cup game next week and he will probably change things up again but Brighton have a very deep squad – maybe deeper than West Ham and will be tough to get through but there is no pressure so they need to just have a go really. The key is to keep remaining competitive in games and at least we have seen some life so big credit to Wilder for that.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – Came out from his goal a few times when he did not have to -such as the one where Ings nearly lobbed him and the second half where he then backpedalled. The first goal is well hit but does go in near side but again maybe I am looking for things? The rest of his game he was put under way too much pressure with balls back and the players do not seem to learn at all. Made one good save when he held Ings low shot. Did not have that much to do though really which was the same for their keeper – odd in a 2-2 draw?
Bogle 7/10 – Continued his excellent form and improvements under Wilder. Got stuck in, was tighter to his man (apart from the goal but it did deflect across) and thought he was always involved in some of our good attacking play too. He managed to get his foot in or make some vital tackles but also he was energetic and covered a lot of ground. The cynic in me would say he was playing for a new contract (maybe the Prince was right – that is tongue in cheek). Taken half a mark off for losing his man on the goal.
Trusty 6.5/10 – Did ok in that left back position where he lacks the foot speed maybe against tricky wingers. He kept his position and did the basics. Did miss two good headed opportunities but of course a clever assist to an assist (the hockey assist!) made a bit of an amends. Second half seemed to pick up a knock and this threw him off for a bit. Went off ten minutes from the end and did not seem fully right much of the second half.
Robinson 6/10 – Some decent tackles and interceptions but he also was very sloppy at times and he gave it away twice leading to them breaking. Felt some of his passes across were telegraphed too and this was something both centre backs were guilty of. The goal felt nobody was tight enough at all and a challenge had to come in. His long throws are not a threat at all- but more as we have no one who can win the header. They won every header today to clear his looped efforts.
Ahmedhodzic 5.5/10 – Another erratic performance where he at times seemed so desperate to nick the ball he ends up getting himself out of position. He did make a few decent tackles but he also was guilty of some poor ones, got booked for a cynical one and was very lucky to get away with the pull down at the end. He at times came out well with it but then played a poor ball. He gets tight on some challenges but then he is slow to get to the ones he should win. Not sure he is anywhere near the standards of a year-15 months ago. I still think there is a player in there but like many the jump up with extra pace, height and athleticism has meant he had struggled with better players. He is quite ill disciplined defensively and has made poor decisions. I would like to keep him as believe at the lower level he would stand out again, but then if we get an offer of anything over 10 million (this 20 million is surely fantasy stuff!) I would probably let him go IF we can sign some young players who can develop not the likes of Holgate and/or Mepham who would be poor choices in my opinion.
Souza 6/10 – A weird game. In general play he did make some interceptions, headers, and some ok passes, move ons of play but he then made 2 or 3 wretched passes that put them right on the attack and on another day could have led to us conceding at least one goal. However, despite this his energy and effort was good all game and has improved under Wilder. He is very slow to do things and his foot speed is a problem when teams break in transition but he at least has been much more involved in a positive way and even when giving it away at least he is not hiding now. Undid some good work with some of the awful passes in key moments.
Hamer 6/10 – Another with a mixed bag. Some nice touches and always tries to pass it forward which I like and does not shy away from playing through balls or balls inside. He at least is looking for the different pass rather than going backwards or sideways but not everything came off. He does have spells where he goes missing and must get fitter to influence games. Also, his lack of mobility means he is another (following on from Fleck/Norwood the last few seasons) who just hacks people down when he gets beat. Got booked for a poor one and then the penalty is a stupid tackle and totally unnecessary as there were a lot of bodies around and Ings had a lot to do still. He had committed another poor foul just before that and I said he might need to be took off – so surprised the ref did not give him another yellow after the penalty. There is talent there but another that is quite inconsistent and needs to do more in games with his quality on the ball.
McAtee 7/10 – He was often the main source of our attack with some good runs with the ball at his feet and he always looked a threat. He carried it up field or drew men and got into the box. He was always looking to get on it and showed he is two footed too with his runs and ability to manoeuvre the ball. His actual overall delivery and final product was poor but of course his diagonal balls for both goals were key to us getting these! In many other moments, such as free kicks, crossing opportunities or when he got wide, he maybe did not find the key moment and was quite wasteful as he had so many chances – particularly second half but overplayed or hit the keeper.
Brookes 7.5/10 – Thought he was excellent and maybe his best all around game for us. He was composed, good in possession and always available. Maybe not that flashy (apart from another great nut meg) but he looks to have a very old head on young shoulders. Rarely gives the ball away (did once second half) and always looks to go forward if he can. Neat, tidy and can move around the pitch. Just looks a really promising player that is getting better as he learns the game. Second half he did not fade as he has in other games and was involved in lots of other decent moves we put together. Did have a few chances where he blazed over or was blocked but he gets into good areas. Very glad we got him tied down to a big contract.
Brereton Diaz 7/10 – A really promising debut. Yes he missed a big chance second half where he should have done much better (maybe used his left foot? – granted not his strongest) and had another shot blocked after Brookes laid it off but overall, he was good. He kept the ball well, got into good positions and a threat coming in off the wing to cut in. He did not give it away and worked hard for the team too as he moved into midfield and back to help Trusty too. Not sure he will be here long term (weirdly he probably would be a real asset at the lower level but not sure they would sell him from what has been reported?) but he gave us something different today.
Osula 6.5/10 – I thought he worked really hard today and competed well. He won a few headers and also managed to hold it up better too than in other Premier League games. He did panic and not look up after getting wide a few times and sent over poor crosses. He also missed the chance (albeit we were offside) but helped set up the first goal and was competing well all half. Shame he seemed to pick up a knock I assume as thought he did ok and was growing into the game? I can understand why he is being used more than Archer and McBurnie – as both might/could not be here next season.
Subs –
McBurnie 6.5/10 – Did ok under a lot of pressure in physical challenges. A few times he was a bit slow to react but felt the crosses were relatively poor too and not always giving him a chance. He went in for the cross that led to the penalty, albeit it being soft but dusted himself down and took a cool penalty (2-2 this season after being poor previously from pens) to salvage a draw. Odd he was in Dubai was it this week and it seems he may not be fully fit still? I am to be convinced we should offer him a new deal and feel we might be better going in a different direction – he does not play enough at all and the justification for a new deal is getting less and less but fair play for the bottle he showed today.
Archer 5/10 – Not sure he got in the game much at all and felt we dropped off after Brereton Diaz came off and the threat from this side somewhat disappeared. He was guilty of coming inside too much and took too many touches. He did well when Wilder came in but the last 3 or 4 games he has dropped off again for me and with him going back to Villa, not sure I would be starting him much now as we need to have one eye on next season.
Norrington Davies – Came on down the left and had a few touches as we tried to get up the field. Nice to see him back. Expect him to be starting soon you would think and ideal for him to get 90 minutes at home in the cup next week.
Brewster – Chested one ball down after he came on but another ball came off him and then he dives ridiculously into that tackle when he had no chance of getting it. Seemed like he thought that aggression would impress the fans maybe but it was moronic. As soon as he did it I thought red card and no idea how the assistant and ref did not see it this way first time. It was awful and an obvious overturn. He kicks a bottle as he goes off but his frustration should be aimed squarely at him. Yes he has had bad luck with injuries but the games he has played he has been largely woeful. For the money we spent, he has been pound for pound, the worst signing in the history of this club and a complete and utter disaster barely playing, scoring or contributing. He is now out for three games but then not sure anyone will notice. When he is eligible I would see if a Championship team would take him on loan for the rest of the season? He will still be here for the final year of his contract as no one will take on his wages. I could go in and slate him but it’s not his fault he is not good enough – that’s the fault of the recruitment and board who have made a hugely expensive mistake. A player who in 3 or 4 years I genuinely think will be in League 2 or even the National League.
Norwood – Brought on right at the end. Booted one up into the air but won one tackle in the lead up to the Brewster red card. Put one ball forward in stoppage time. Do not expect to see him play many games now from the start.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Another better performance in the fact we were more competitive, had more of the ball and created more chances than we did in many of the games earlier in the season. We actually had large spells where we were the better team and he will be frustrated we did not make more of the second half. We do make some awful decisions with the ball at times, in the wrong areas and put pressure on ourselves. Not sure why we are still going back to the keeper or trying to play it out so much when we do not have the players to do it – I am not saying just lump it but we did cause problems when playing channel balls or getting players behind them. Some of the passes and play in defence or playing back to Wes was ridiculous and just put us under pressure. We did not need to do this.
The overall performance was decent to good though – not sure West Ham were great but we did play a good tempo and got players forward. We tried to create chances and get into better areas. Some of the goals and chances we concede are still down to basic mistakes or choices but then other teams have better players. Today not sure there were much between the teams at all and on another day we go ahead at 2-1 before they did this. Overall, though despite us almost certainly going down, we at least are now in games and have picked up the odd point over the last 4 games. It won’t be enough but from where we were – at least the games are more enjoyable in that sense. I do hope we don’t squander funds on older players (worrying reports linking us with certain players) as the future has to be the likes of Osula, Brooks (Arblaster and maybe Jebbsion too) not older players on short term rentals.
West Ham – There was a lot of talk about how weakened they may be due to injuries and AFCON call ups but they are 6th in the table and ahead of Man Utd and Chelsea. They won a European competition and without much big spending have quietly had another excellent season, albeit went out of the FA Cup and will finish in the top 10 and compete for Europe again – a competition they are still in this year. I cannot understand why they have not locked down Moyes for longer. They made this mistake before and then had to go back to him after a few years where they were mediocre. He may not be fashionable but he is a very good manager and gets his teams playing to their maximum. They have made some smart signings and slowly just keep adding to it. Even after losing Rice, they get Ward Prowse for a fraction of the cost and add Kudos.
They have been hit and miss and Moyes continues to get criticism from fans which as I say seems off – even today they were jeering subs but Johnson helped turn the game round! I thought they were poor in the week at Bristol City and poor again today but still had the better chances first half even if they were ahead against the run of play. After we levelled, they sat back and seemed like they would lose again on the road but the sub helped and they got the penalty and had chances to finish it. They will argue despite being poor, they were not helped by some awful officiating and have to agree they did not get the calls at all today even as a Blades fan.
Opponent Man of the Match – Bowen is always a threat but missed a decent chance. Cornet was decent and scored a well taken goal. Ings got man of the match but not sure he did that much to warrant getting that – had the shot blocked and run for the goal so like McAtee was involved in big moments. I do like Soucek in the middle. Big lad who gets stuck in and a goal threat. Not sure anyone was superb and you could argue the lad Johnson, who we have been linked with, was a game changer as he went into midfield, ran at us and caused us real problems.
Opponent Weak link – The keeper gave away the penalty but was hard done to on that. I thought Ward Prowse took some decent crosses but he was quiet in this game. I thought Zouma looked a bit clumsy, giving away numerous fouls (some no given) and struggled with both McBurnie and Osula.
Referee/Officials – Michael Salisbury – Not had the best of days but the decisions undoubtedly went in our favour. Up to stoppage time not sure there was much wrong with them, in terms of big calls. A few challenges were waved away at the end of the first half where it seemed rather physical and could have been given. So, there were a few things he could have given but was letting them go both ways. The four bookings, three for us and one for them were all right as stopped players getting away and quite cynical. However, up to the final quarter of an hour, you are not questioning the referee particularly as a fan of either side but then it all went a bit crazy. The penalty was easy for them and maybe he should have given Hamer another yellow. The red card, they somehow missed when it was right in front of both of them. How they gave it a yellow I am not sure? Even Wilder, who defended it, will look back and surely be fuming at his ill-discipline. Coufal gets two soft yellows, but stupid to do the second after just getting one. So, the two reds here are probably right. The next two decisions he gets wrong. The penalty for us I thought the keeper took McBurnie out but having seen him back, it’s really soft and actually he barely connects with our player and it sort of sails over both and they collide. Its bizarre VAR did not go back and change it- I know they say they have to see outstanding evidence but for such a big call I thought it was wrong. I know I am a Blade but that’s how I see it. At the time seemed clear but that’s why we have VAR. We get away with that and then somehow get away with a stonewall penalty when Anel, as he often does, grabs his man and pulls him down. Again, how VAR do not look back at that I do not know! I would be fuming if I was a West Ham fan. Not sure they deserved to win in overall play but had got the lead but those two decisions are really poor and for both to go against your team you can understand their frustration. We have picked up 3 extra points now against Wolves and West Ham due to fortunate penalty decisions and so cannot lose sight of this when we get annoyed with decisions that might have gone against us. We are rock bottom and miles off most teams and decisions in big moments have largely gone for us.
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Thought it was quiet today and a few thousand off capacity with a few gaps in the Bramall Lane upper mainly. West Ham filled their allocation and made a decent noise and United fans seemed quite subdued even though the performance was decent and improved than many. Maybe the Sunday kick off and poor weather/January did not help. The pitch was filled with rubbish (cue jokes) and reminded me of when Alex Ferguson moaned about crisp packets back in that first game in the Premier League in 1992! It made for the pitch full of packets/wrappers blowing around today! The crowd came to life late on as often does when there are refeering decisions or late drama in games but thought the crowd could have been louder today and seemed almost flat – as I say maybe the Sunday and earlier kick off did not help.
Both teams had players missing or deemed not fit enough to start and Wilder sprang a few surprises too with McBurnie and Archer both left on the bench and Osula starting up front supported by new signing Brereton Diaz and McAtee. Ahmedhozic was back to start and captain but there was no place in the squad for George Baldock. West Ham were without some key players but Jarrod Bowen was back to start.
The game began with few real moments of goal mouth action as United tried to get on the ball and move it forward when they had the opportunity. Both teams were guilty of sloppy moments though with the swirling wind not helping. Brooks and Brereton Diaz had linked well down the left-hand side before Souza had a shot straight at Areola. West Ham had their first chance when the ball forward saw Ings get a touch and over Foderingham but it was not on target and United cleared. West Ham then had the best chance of the game as Souza gave the ball away in midfield and it was eventually switched to Bowen but he dragged his shot wide despite being in on goal down the left.
West Ham had created the best two chances but United were matching the visitors and Brooks blazed over after Hamer’s cross fell for him. Brereton Diaz then went through but the ball was played too late and after it was squared Osula’s guilt edged miss that was saved, was academic as the flag finally went up. Brooks continued to shot neat footwork and his nutmeg created space for a cross but Brereton Diaz’s effort lacked power as United were getting on top. Hamer’s free kick hit the wall and Trusty then headed straight at Areola from the set play.
However, despite the decent showing from the Blades, they fell behind on 28 minutes. West Ham were allowed to turn in the middle without any challenge and Coufal in turn played in a cross unopposed. Ings was similarly left in space but his shot hit a defender but fell for CORNET and he drilled the ball home beyond Foderingham. It was well finished but a poor goal to concede especially as United had been steadily starting to take control.
Hamer was booked after Robinson’s poor ball saw him drag Fornals down before Ward Prowse was booked for a trip on Bogle as he looked to break. With just a minute before the break, the Blades deservedly levelled. The ball was cleared but with West Ham defending deep, McAtee clipped a cross over which Trusty headed intelligently towards the back post. Osula headed goalwards and Areola managed to flick the ball away but BRERETON DIAZ managed to react to nick it away from Ward Prowse and smash the ball into the net for a debut goal. United will have been delighted to get back in the game as they had done some good things despite some similarly sloppy moments that allowed the Hammers chances of their own.
At the break Osula had to go off which will have been disappointing as he had been a handful in the first half. McBurnue replaced him. United began the second half on the front foot with McAtee involved in many of the promising attacks. One ball nearly found McBurnie before he overhit another cross soon after. Brooks continued to look neat and incisive and Hamer was more involved as the Blades looked to unpick the lock in the Hammers defence. Hamer’s centre was headed over by Trusty and then good football saw the ball deflect wide after a series of passes set up a half chance. United were the dominant force and had a superb chance to take the lead as the ball forward from McAtee found Brereton Diaz who beat the offside trap and was away. He cut in but opted to use his stronger right foot and pulled his shot badly wide with just the keeper to beat. It was a poor miss in a promising debut from the Villareal loan man. He came off on 67 minutes replaced by Archer before Brooks was cautioned for catching his man as West Ham looked to break.
United had not made Areola work at all despite controlling the half and so many good openings saw the lack of a final ball or execution. West Ham had offered nothing at all but then suddenly Ings had a low shot saved by Foderingham and then Ahmedhodzic was booked for a cynical foul. With 13 minutes to go, sub-Johnson, who had looked lively since entering the field was able to feed Ings and a clumsy challenge from Hamer sent the striker tumbling. It seemed an easy decision and sure enough the point to the spot followed. Hamer survived a second yellow card. WARD PROWSE scored with the minimum of fuss and despite the Blades being the better side, were behind.
Brewster and Norrington Davies came on for Trusty and Brooks but the goal had seemingly killed the Blades who became a bit erratic now with sloppy give aways and poor choices. They were trying to play it out too much and were caught leading to a chance for Bowen but he curled over. Norwood came on Souza but after the ball was played into the right side of the West Ham defence after the sub won a tackle, another Blades substitute Brewster left his feet and took out Emerson who was left writhing in agony. The initial award was just a yellow despite the Hammers players reacting and Coufal was booked for his protestations. VAR asked Michael Salisbury to take another look and after he went to look at the screen near the John Street Stand, then the inevitable upgrade to a red card came. In truth it was the correct decision and a ridiculous tackle continuing Brewster’s nightmare spell at the Lane.
The game ticked into 6 minutes of stoppage time and Coufal took out McAtee leading to a free kick for the Blades but before it could be taken, the visitors were now reduced to ten men as Coufal got his second yellow card and had to take the long walk. The free kick was cleared but McAtee sent it back in and McBurnie went down under the challenge of Areola. Replays showed he did not get the ball but it was debatable how much he got of the striker too but VAR did not see enough to overturn the decision. Areola had got hurt in making the challenge and after a long delay he had to go off replaced by Fabianski who has an excellent record of saving spot kicks. McAtee had the ball on the spot for a long period but it became clear this was a ploy and was given to MCBURNIE who after the long delay cooly converted down to Fabianski’s right hand side. The kick went in on 103 minutes!
There was still time for the Hammers to create another chance as a cross came over and both Ahmedhozic and Bowen went to ground but the referee gave the decision to the Blades. Once again replays showed United were fortunate to get the right side of this call as the Bosnian clearly had hold of the striker pulling him down. David Moyes was apoplectic once again that the decision went against his team. The final whistle went not long after and this pulsating and crazy game ended with honours even.
United – A strange one to assess really in that we did lots of good things in the game and were far more competitive than many games and had much more of the ball than we have in maybe any other game (except Brentford). It was a scrappy game with some really poor bits of play from both teams but we probably shaded the game probably over the whole contest but maybe they had the better chances if not the most chances. They led twice and the decisions went for us so on reflection a draw is about right.
The game began evenly with both teams guilty of squandering possession too easily but we had decent moments too. They had a few clear chances though with Ings and Bowen both being in on goal and missing the target whilst we had efforts from Brooks, Trusty and Souza and the latter two at least forced saves even if straight at him. It seemed we were starting to cause them problems with Brooks showing good moments and Osula a handful but then the goal we conceded saw no pressure on the ball on multiple occasions. The finish was decent but we should have closed them down and had a few chances to stop it even getting across to Corner. We did respond quite well and kept going and Brereton Diaz was on the spot to convert after a more ‘old school’ long cross and header found the chance for Osula. The latter had done well but obviously picked up a knock which was a shame as does seem to be getting better each game in terms of learning the game.
We had our best spell either side of the half time whistle and felt for 25 minutes second half we actually were the aggressor and had so many good chances to get good balls in or find an opening but despite us controlling things, we did not test the keeper enough (at all?) and outside of the big BBD chance, then not sure we had many clear chances? That was the big issue as we did lots of good things and got into some excellent areas with McAtee key to this. I felt if we kept plugging away we would get chances at the Kop End as the time went on but then they did have a few chances after doing nothing and we started giving away free kicks and then of course the stupid tackle on the penalty. Hamer was lucky not to get a second yellow -the first in a number of late decisions that I think went our way.
After the goal, we seemed to lose our heads a bit and were too slow to play it forward (a trait you could level at United all game as we clearly lack players comfortable in goal/or at the back to be able to play this way) and we started giving it away. They had chances to seal it with Bowen hitting one off target and another being blocked right in front of goal. We chucked men on but we did not look like getting back after being the better side for much of the second half and West Ham, despite being poor much of the second half now seemed like the team with more energy. The Brewster red card just seemed to put a seal on another desperately disappointing afternoon.
However, ill-discipline from Soucek saw him go off too and we get the late penalty. At the time I thought it was a foul and he had punched McBurnie, taking him out but replays showed that the ball went over the top of them and they both kind of come together. There is an argument the contact is more from the keeper but McBurnie make contact too – I was surprised he gave it and even though they tend to not overturn things, I thought VAR may have got involved. The delays and the keeper going off meant I was probably not confident we would score as Fabianski is decent on penalties but credit to McBurnie. After this we get lucky again with a fairly clear penalty for Anel grabbing Bowen but somehow VAR do not check this and we survive. This certainly seemed more of a penalty than ours and can understand Moyes being annoyed. For the second of the last three visits to the Lane, West Ham come out the wrong side of some controversial decisions.
Strange emotions as pleased to get the late point but of course in reality it does not really help us and on reflection (a bit like the Villa one where we got pegged back late) we will see it as a real opportunity missed. I thought we played ok and did well for long spells but poor decisions in both our final third and theirs meant we did not create enough clear chances and conceded too many. So, despite us having more possession (58%) and shots (21 to 16 – albeit only 6 to 5 on target) we did not really make some good stuff count. I have to admit I thought West Ham were quite poor and whilst they showed some decent moments and obviously led to two goals – the finish and the build up the penalty; I also thought they were nowhere near their best – some of that maybe down to our good play too – we maybe missed a really good chance to win the game despite the late drama. I thought United were very competitive though and we have not said that. Sure, there were some poor bits of play and giveaways/poor touches but West Ham were as guilty of that as us. This made it an exciting game – not due to lots of quality but due to it being full of incidents and a fair amount of goalmouth action too. It would have been devastating to lose – and the final nail in the coffin. We still are almost certainly down but at least we are getting the odd result here and there and not getting hammered. We should beat Derby’s record now. It is so hard though as now we go to a struggling Palace but they are due a result and a reaction and then we have really hard home games against Villa and Brighton. You just do not get many chances to get wins and thought second half we had just that opportunity. Maybe his is harsh and with West Ham being 6th, should applaud our efforts but I did feel they were a long way from their best and we maybe could have exploited that?
In the end though it is nice to come away with a late goal and an exciting finish where there are things to talk about. That is I suppose what football is about? Granted we are still rock bottom and the season does seem to be petering out but like last time when Hecky came in, we at least are competing in some games and not just rolling over. There were some real positives in that BBD did ok, Osula continued his improvements and Bogle played well too again – showing much better form under Wilder. Brooks was also excellent again and for me United’s best player and is slowly getting better too. With him, Osula and of course Arblaster to come in, we have three really promising young pieces to build around in the Championship. It was interesting today we did not have too many of the old guard (Wilder’s old guard?) in no Fleck, Norwood, McBurnie, Osborn, Egan, Baldock (granted last two injured) starting today. Maybe he realises he has to plan a bit for next season and there is a good chance many of those mentioned may not be here.
We have the cup game next week and he will probably change things up again but Brighton have a very deep squad – maybe deeper than West Ham and will be tough to get through but there is no pressure so they need to just have a go really. The key is to keep remaining competitive in games and at least we have seen some life so big credit to Wilder for that.
Ratings:
Foderingham 6/10 – Came out from his goal a few times when he did not have to -such as the one where Ings nearly lobbed him and the second half where he then backpedalled. The first goal is well hit but does go in near side but again maybe I am looking for things? The rest of his game he was put under way too much pressure with balls back and the players do not seem to learn at all. Made one good save when he held Ings low shot. Did not have that much to do though really which was the same for their keeper – odd in a 2-2 draw?
Bogle 7/10 – Continued his excellent form and improvements under Wilder. Got stuck in, was tighter to his man (apart from the goal but it did deflect across) and thought he was always involved in some of our good attacking play too. He managed to get his foot in or make some vital tackles but also he was energetic and covered a lot of ground. The cynic in me would say he was playing for a new contract (maybe the Prince was right – that is tongue in cheek). Taken half a mark off for losing his man on the goal.
Trusty 6.5/10 – Did ok in that left back position where he lacks the foot speed maybe against tricky wingers. He kept his position and did the basics. Did miss two good headed opportunities but of course a clever assist to an assist (the hockey assist!) made a bit of an amends. Second half seemed to pick up a knock and this threw him off for a bit. Went off ten minutes from the end and did not seem fully right much of the second half.
Robinson 6/10 – Some decent tackles and interceptions but he also was very sloppy at times and he gave it away twice leading to them breaking. Felt some of his passes across were telegraphed too and this was something both centre backs were guilty of. The goal felt nobody was tight enough at all and a challenge had to come in. His long throws are not a threat at all- but more as we have no one who can win the header. They won every header today to clear his looped efforts.
Ahmedhodzic 5.5/10 – Another erratic performance where he at times seemed so desperate to nick the ball he ends up getting himself out of position. He did make a few decent tackles but he also was guilty of some poor ones, got booked for a cynical one and was very lucky to get away with the pull down at the end. He at times came out well with it but then played a poor ball. He gets tight on some challenges but then he is slow to get to the ones he should win. Not sure he is anywhere near the standards of a year-15 months ago. I still think there is a player in there but like many the jump up with extra pace, height and athleticism has meant he had struggled with better players. He is quite ill disciplined defensively and has made poor decisions. I would like to keep him as believe at the lower level he would stand out again, but then if we get an offer of anything over 10 million (this 20 million is surely fantasy stuff!) I would probably let him go IF we can sign some young players who can develop not the likes of Holgate and/or Mepham who would be poor choices in my opinion.
Souza 6/10 – A weird game. In general play he did make some interceptions, headers, and some ok passes, move ons of play but he then made 2 or 3 wretched passes that put them right on the attack and on another day could have led to us conceding at least one goal. However, despite this his energy and effort was good all game and has improved under Wilder. He is very slow to do things and his foot speed is a problem when teams break in transition but he at least has been much more involved in a positive way and even when giving it away at least he is not hiding now. Undid some good work with some of the awful passes in key moments.
Hamer 6/10 – Another with a mixed bag. Some nice touches and always tries to pass it forward which I like and does not shy away from playing through balls or balls inside. He at least is looking for the different pass rather than going backwards or sideways but not everything came off. He does have spells where he goes missing and must get fitter to influence games. Also, his lack of mobility means he is another (following on from Fleck/Norwood the last few seasons) who just hacks people down when he gets beat. Got booked for a poor one and then the penalty is a stupid tackle and totally unnecessary as there were a lot of bodies around and Ings had a lot to do still. He had committed another poor foul just before that and I said he might need to be took off – so surprised the ref did not give him another yellow after the penalty. There is talent there but another that is quite inconsistent and needs to do more in games with his quality on the ball.
McAtee 7/10 – He was often the main source of our attack with some good runs with the ball at his feet and he always looked a threat. He carried it up field or drew men and got into the box. He was always looking to get on it and showed he is two footed too with his runs and ability to manoeuvre the ball. His actual overall delivery and final product was poor but of course his diagonal balls for both goals were key to us getting these! In many other moments, such as free kicks, crossing opportunities or when he got wide, he maybe did not find the key moment and was quite wasteful as he had so many chances – particularly second half but overplayed or hit the keeper.
Brookes 7.5/10 – Thought he was excellent and maybe his best all around game for us. He was composed, good in possession and always available. Maybe not that flashy (apart from another great nut meg) but he looks to have a very old head on young shoulders. Rarely gives the ball away (did once second half) and always looks to go forward if he can. Neat, tidy and can move around the pitch. Just looks a really promising player that is getting better as he learns the game. Second half he did not fade as he has in other games and was involved in lots of other decent moves we put together. Did have a few chances where he blazed over or was blocked but he gets into good areas. Very glad we got him tied down to a big contract.
Brereton Diaz 7/10 – A really promising debut. Yes he missed a big chance second half where he should have done much better (maybe used his left foot? – granted not his strongest) and had another shot blocked after Brookes laid it off but overall, he was good. He kept the ball well, got into good positions and a threat coming in off the wing to cut in. He did not give it away and worked hard for the team too as he moved into midfield and back to help Trusty too. Not sure he will be here long term (weirdly he probably would be a real asset at the lower level but not sure they would sell him from what has been reported?) but he gave us something different today.
Osula 6.5/10 – I thought he worked really hard today and competed well. He won a few headers and also managed to hold it up better too than in other Premier League games. He did panic and not look up after getting wide a few times and sent over poor crosses. He also missed the chance (albeit we were offside) but helped set up the first goal and was competing well all half. Shame he seemed to pick up a knock I assume as thought he did ok and was growing into the game? I can understand why he is being used more than Archer and McBurnie – as both might/could not be here next season.
Subs –
McBurnie 6.5/10 – Did ok under a lot of pressure in physical challenges. A few times he was a bit slow to react but felt the crosses were relatively poor too and not always giving him a chance. He went in for the cross that led to the penalty, albeit it being soft but dusted himself down and took a cool penalty (2-2 this season after being poor previously from pens) to salvage a draw. Odd he was in Dubai was it this week and it seems he may not be fully fit still? I am to be convinced we should offer him a new deal and feel we might be better going in a different direction – he does not play enough at all and the justification for a new deal is getting less and less but fair play for the bottle he showed today.
Archer 5/10 – Not sure he got in the game much at all and felt we dropped off after Brereton Diaz came off and the threat from this side somewhat disappeared. He was guilty of coming inside too much and took too many touches. He did well when Wilder came in but the last 3 or 4 games he has dropped off again for me and with him going back to Villa, not sure I would be starting him much now as we need to have one eye on next season.
Norrington Davies – Came on down the left and had a few touches as we tried to get up the field. Nice to see him back. Expect him to be starting soon you would think and ideal for him to get 90 minutes at home in the cup next week.
Brewster – Chested one ball down after he came on but another ball came off him and then he dives ridiculously into that tackle when he had no chance of getting it. Seemed like he thought that aggression would impress the fans maybe but it was moronic. As soon as he did it I thought red card and no idea how the assistant and ref did not see it this way first time. It was awful and an obvious overturn. He kicks a bottle as he goes off but his frustration should be aimed squarely at him. Yes he has had bad luck with injuries but the games he has played he has been largely woeful. For the money we spent, he has been pound for pound, the worst signing in the history of this club and a complete and utter disaster barely playing, scoring or contributing. He is now out for three games but then not sure anyone will notice. When he is eligible I would see if a Championship team would take him on loan for the rest of the season? He will still be here for the final year of his contract as no one will take on his wages. I could go in and slate him but it’s not his fault he is not good enough – that’s the fault of the recruitment and board who have made a hugely expensive mistake. A player who in 3 or 4 years I genuinely think will be in League 2 or even the National League.
Norwood – Brought on right at the end. Booted one up into the air but won one tackle in the lead up to the Brewster red card. Put one ball forward in stoppage time. Do not expect to see him play many games now from the start.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Another better performance in the fact we were more competitive, had more of the ball and created more chances than we did in many of the games earlier in the season. We actually had large spells where we were the better team and he will be frustrated we did not make more of the second half. We do make some awful decisions with the ball at times, in the wrong areas and put pressure on ourselves. Not sure why we are still going back to the keeper or trying to play it out so much when we do not have the players to do it – I am not saying just lump it but we did cause problems when playing channel balls or getting players behind them. Some of the passes and play in defence or playing back to Wes was ridiculous and just put us under pressure. We did not need to do this.
The overall performance was decent to good though – not sure West Ham were great but we did play a good tempo and got players forward. We tried to create chances and get into better areas. Some of the goals and chances we concede are still down to basic mistakes or choices but then other teams have better players. Today not sure there were much between the teams at all and on another day we go ahead at 2-1 before they did this. Overall, though despite us almost certainly going down, we at least are now in games and have picked up the odd point over the last 4 games. It won’t be enough but from where we were – at least the games are more enjoyable in that sense. I do hope we don’t squander funds on older players (worrying reports linking us with certain players) as the future has to be the likes of Osula, Brooks (Arblaster and maybe Jebbsion too) not older players on short term rentals.
West Ham – There was a lot of talk about how weakened they may be due to injuries and AFCON call ups but they are 6th in the table and ahead of Man Utd and Chelsea. They won a European competition and without much big spending have quietly had another excellent season, albeit went out of the FA Cup and will finish in the top 10 and compete for Europe again – a competition they are still in this year. I cannot understand why they have not locked down Moyes for longer. They made this mistake before and then had to go back to him after a few years where they were mediocre. He may not be fashionable but he is a very good manager and gets his teams playing to their maximum. They have made some smart signings and slowly just keep adding to it. Even after losing Rice, they get Ward Prowse for a fraction of the cost and add Kudos.
They have been hit and miss and Moyes continues to get criticism from fans which as I say seems off – even today they were jeering subs but Johnson helped turn the game round! I thought they were poor in the week at Bristol City and poor again today but still had the better chances first half even if they were ahead against the run of play. After we levelled, they sat back and seemed like they would lose again on the road but the sub helped and they got the penalty and had chances to finish it. They will argue despite being poor, they were not helped by some awful officiating and have to agree they did not get the calls at all today even as a Blades fan.
Opponent Man of the Match – Bowen is always a threat but missed a decent chance. Cornet was decent and scored a well taken goal. Ings got man of the match but not sure he did that much to warrant getting that – had the shot blocked and run for the goal so like McAtee was involved in big moments. I do like Soucek in the middle. Big lad who gets stuck in and a goal threat. Not sure anyone was superb and you could argue the lad Johnson, who we have been linked with, was a game changer as he went into midfield, ran at us and caused us real problems.
Opponent Weak link – The keeper gave away the penalty but was hard done to on that. I thought Ward Prowse took some decent crosses but he was quiet in this game. I thought Zouma looked a bit clumsy, giving away numerous fouls (some no given) and struggled with both McBurnie and Osula.
Referee/Officials – Michael Salisbury – Not had the best of days but the decisions undoubtedly went in our favour. Up to stoppage time not sure there was much wrong with them, in terms of big calls. A few challenges were waved away at the end of the first half where it seemed rather physical and could have been given. So, there were a few things he could have given but was letting them go both ways. The four bookings, three for us and one for them were all right as stopped players getting away and quite cynical. However, up to the final quarter of an hour, you are not questioning the referee particularly as a fan of either side but then it all went a bit crazy. The penalty was easy for them and maybe he should have given Hamer another yellow. The red card, they somehow missed when it was right in front of both of them. How they gave it a yellow I am not sure? Even Wilder, who defended it, will look back and surely be fuming at his ill-discipline. Coufal gets two soft yellows, but stupid to do the second after just getting one. So, the two reds here are probably right. The next two decisions he gets wrong. The penalty for us I thought the keeper took McBurnie out but having seen him back, it’s really soft and actually he barely connects with our player and it sort of sails over both and they collide. Its bizarre VAR did not go back and change it- I know they say they have to see outstanding evidence but for such a big call I thought it was wrong. I know I am a Blade but that’s how I see it. At the time seemed clear but that’s why we have VAR. We get away with that and then somehow get away with a stonewall penalty when Anel, as he often does, grabs his man and pulls him down. Again, how VAR do not look back at that I do not know! I would be fuming if I was a West Ham fan. Not sure they deserved to win in overall play but had got the lead but those two decisions are really poor and for both to go against your team you can understand their frustration. We have picked up 3 extra points now against Wolves and West Ham due to fortunate penalty decisions and so cannot lose sight of this when we get annoyed with decisions that might have gone against us. We are rock bottom and miles off most teams and decisions in big moments have largely gone for us.
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Thought it was quiet today and a few thousand off capacity with a few gaps in the Bramall Lane upper mainly. West Ham filled their allocation and made a decent noise and United fans seemed quite subdued even though the performance was decent and improved than many. Maybe the Sunday kick off and poor weather/January did not help. The pitch was filled with rubbish (cue jokes) and reminded me of when Alex Ferguson moaned about crisp packets back in that first game in the Premier League in 1992! It made for the pitch full of packets/wrappers blowing around today! The crowd came to life late on as often does when there are refeering decisions or late drama in games but thought the crowd could have been louder today and seemed almost flat – as I say maybe the Sunday and earlier kick off did not help.
