United 2 Coventry 0 -report

[Deadbat]

United took another huge step to Promotion as they eventually saw off plucky Coventry at Bramall Lane. Despite the news coming in that Fleetwood had won at Oxford denying the Blades the chance to go up tonight, United know the three points still puts them on the verge of promotion.


Goals from ex Sky Blues men Clarke and Fleck sealed the victory in a game that United were not quite at their best but they still did enough as an improved second half and two substitutions contributed massively to the win.


Manager Wilder named an unchanged side again whilst Coventry manager Robins made some changes bringing back cup tied players and some fresher bodies after their Wembley win. The game was delayed due to congestion outside as lots of fans clearly wanted to be in attendance to witness a potential promotion sealing game.


Coventry set up with just one up top in experienced former Wednesday man Tudgay as United saw most of the early ball but a few sloppy moments saw the crowd become a little anxious and Bigirimana had a shot well off target for Coventry. Lafferty got into some good positions but wasted crosses before Hanson got in down the right but his shot lacked power and was easily saved by Burge. Coutts and Fleck had not been as assured on the ball and Duffy also could not make the final pass when well- placed and the game was quite scrappy. Coventry tried to get men forward when they could but there were few chances. Both teams had plenty of time on the ball with little pressing but neither side were particularly dangerous.


United had a good effort when Lafferty fired into the side netting from outside the box and then soon after had the best chance of the game as Coutts played in Fleck whose cross was met on the full by Hanson who volleyed over. It was a really good chance and one he should have taken.


Bigirimana was booked for a poor foul on Duffy but the final moments of the half were played without any real incidents. United had not really got going despite having a lot of the ball and Coventry were happy to sit back and try and make them get through them. Hanson had won a number of headers but United had not got bodies around him and also were too ponderous in set up play taking an age to transfer play or lacking any tempo to attacks.


The second half saw Willis taken off to be replaced by Stevenson and Jones had a decent effort but fired over. Manager Wilder did not mess around and two changes came early in the second half. Carruthers and Clarke came on for Duffy and also Wright as United went to a flat back four but with full backs still pushing on and Sharp now was playing in between Hanson and Clarke with the latter operating in an old fashioned inside left forward position. Sharp had a half volley well wide after good work from Clarke and Hanson as the game started to open up.


Carruthers was getting on the ball and Freeman was also causing issues down the right. Clarke nearly got in but as the ball broke off the keeper after a lovely through ball, Sharp converted the rebound bur Clarke had been flagged offside on the original chance.


Lameiras then got on the end of a fortunate deflection after poor defending in the lead up and had the best chance for City but shot tamely at Moore. You sensed United were now going for it and buoyed by this let off, they started to put more men forward. A half chance for Sharp was blocked leading to a corner and then a series of passes saw Coutts cross and the ball was cleared after it did not drop.


On 70 minutes the breakthrough finally came. A throw in down the left saw Fleck get a yard of space and his excellent cross was across the box and met by CLARKE who swept home at the Kop end signalling a huge roar and a sense of relief from most inside Bramall Lane.


This goal saw United settle down and they started to keep it well. Carruthers nearly got in after another decent run but on 75 minutes FLECK got the vital second goal. The former City man drove at the defence that seemed to open up like the red …should that be skyblue sea and he kept going and going before hitting a superb shot right into the corner past the dive of Burge. Fleck dived in front of the South Stand in celebration and as his teammates joined him they were met by a diving Chris Wilder who leapt onto the pitch. The referee had to have a quiet word with Wilder over his exuberance but you could sense how important it was.


After this United took complete control and knocked it about well. Sharp came off for O’Shea and it was keep ball for the final stages. O’Shea shot over and then Hanson did likewise. Clarke showed good work down the left to keep the ball and although Fleck got booked for a foul, Coventry never really threatened. Four minutes of additional time came but the result was never in doubt.


The final whistle went and United players as customary celebrated with the crowd and will turn their attentions to the game at Northampton on Saturday when a win will seal promotion. Other results could also lead to the Blades going up regardless of the outcome at Sixfields and United really are in a great position now and surely the long spell in League One is finally coming to an end.


United – Not the best we have been. First half we were off it both on and off the ball. I felt we did not press and let them have too much time on the ball. It was all a bit easy but fortunately Coventry were very wasteful with it not causing us too many problems. Going the other way, we were too slow to move it and we allowed them to get men behind the ball. It was slow and pedestrian and at times we gave it away too easily. We took too long to get it forward and then when we could not pass it through ended up trying to lump it but no one was close enough to Hanson. Can see why we did it as they compressed the play and restricted space and at times got all 11 men behind the ball. We tried to get it up the pitch quicker but we lacked penetration.


The final cross was pathetic from United I have to say. I lost count of the number of times we hit the first man or sent it too far. This continued all game with maybe only a couple of decent crosses all game; one from Fleck first half to Hanson and then another from Coutts that just missed the strikers. The only other one led to the goal from Fleck to Clarke. The crossing has at times been really poor this season despite some excellent performances. As poor as Sharp and also Hanson were at times tonight they got littler service.


Second half after Coventry had a little spell and a half chance which Moore saved after the ball broke, we came to life We started to drive forward and Carruthers was running at them, Fleck started to be more aggressive and Coutts and Freeman were starting to link up well. The final ball continued to be poor but Coventry were being pressed back. Clarke and Hanson meant they had two men to think about and even though we had two giants up top I am not sure we lumped it anymore than we had in the first half and our best moves came from balls into feet to those two and then getting players playing off them. Wilder just went for it and Sharp ended up more behind these front two but it was in affect three strikers as Coventry started to sit back deeper and deeper.


We had the offside chance that nearly led to a goal and then we got the break through when Fleck put in a super cross and Clarke was in the right spot to convert. Fleck then scored a great goal and we completely settled down. It was a 5-10 minute burst but was enough to see off a spirited but also tiring side. After this we moved it around nicely and I felt if we had needed to we could have scored more but just saw things out. So overall not the best performance but enough for the win and in the end a professional second half after the stuttering first half when the team seemed a bit nervous and cautious and this led to some mistakes. To just get another win was all that mattered. Shame we could not go up tonight but we are so close now. You sense it should happen at the weekend but it clearly seems a matter of when now rather than if. I really want us to drive on and get the title and try and get to 100 points. We still have 15 to play for. I cannot see us losing more than one game at most if we do have a dip and with some poor sides to play like Vale and Chesterfield that should be wins, we have to just have the right tempo Saturday. I am not sure how much Northampton and MK Dons will care if we tear into them and start well in such games. After all the results this midweek it is, as it was and we maintain a lovely cushion over both 2nd and 3rd. Bradford cannot catch us now and Fleetwood surely have given up the ghost on us you would think. Looking forward to hopefully enjoying a relatively stress free run in.

–


Coventry – They did ok and were not the worst side we have seen all season despite the league position. They did defend for long spells and Robins has made them more organised and resilient but had a few attacks. It was not all defensive and they can say they got into some decent positons but the final ball was really wasteful. They had won 3 games in a row before tonight and tonight they battled hard. They did not have lots of chances but did get men forward and had a few openings. They lacked a bit of quality but will say we did not create much and got men behind the ball and broke things up when we got into the final third. It was quite defensive for spells but did try and get extra bodies up when they broke. They did chase things near the end but when it went 2-0 they started to really tire. They changed quite a few from Sunday but you sensed as the game went on the belief started to ebb away.


They will go down but Robins is a decent manager at this level and they have some decent young players. Pompey have shown though that it is not straightforward to get out of the league below as it has taken them quite a while. They face major uncertainty with no stadium after next year and may have to move to the small Rugby ground in the city. They also face threats to lose the training ground/academy. It is a real mess and no sign of it ending as SISU will want their money back but does not seem any closer to that happening.


Opponent man of the match : I thought the two centre backs battled hard all game to restrict us and both Turnbull and Clarke kept plugging away. The midfield were decent first half but then they faded second half. The lad Jones did a few nice bits and showed his pace and Lameiras had a few moments but the defenders were probably the stand outs.


Opponent Weak link : Tudgay battled for the ball but had little help up top and he was never in the game really. I thought the lad Willis who is highly rated and nearly went to Rotherham for a bit of money struggled and that we had a lot of openings down the left but wasted those chances. The lad in the middle though Bigirimana was really poor. He scored at Wembley but he was quite dirty tonight fouling and hacking at players. He tired badly and was chasing shadows by the end.

 

[Deadbat]

SUFC Player Ratings –


Moore 7/10 – Saved a Coutts back pass as he scampered across his goal and saw a few other routine saves. He made one save when ball bounced to Lameiras fortunately but it was still fairly regulation. Cannot recall too many other saves. Took a few through balls but at times was a bit slow to react and ended up kicking one away when he could have just picked it up but overall it was a comfortable night for him.


Freeman 7.5/10 – Another solid game. He did what he had to in terms of defending and got forward well. Showed some lovely touches and link play and continued to pop up into the box to look a threat. His final ball like many others also could have been better but he did put a few decent ones in second half. Started to play higher and higher up the field and got lucky twice when he was caught out as they threw men forward and seemed to have a man over on that side. Maybe should have opted on the cautious approach when it was 2-0 but was still bombing forward but that attitude has got us to the top.


Lafferty 6/10 – Have to say he is a frustrating player. Defended quite well and did some sensible things with clever back passes, clearances and interceptions but he also is maddening in that his passing and crossing can be woeful. First half he gave it away constantly and looked quite slow to get back when he did. His crossing was awful as he failed to beat the first man time after time. He did have a better spell second half but even then his crossing was terrible and he just kept failing to deliver. He chipped a few into the box but straight to the keeper. He does do some good things and keeps to his position quite well but quality wise he is lacking at times and has to provide a much better final ball.


Basham 8/10 – I have to say I was one of his biggest critics earlier in the season. The last couple of months he has been immense. Superb in all aspects of his game. Defending well, attacking with urgency and taking the ball to the opponents and committing men. At times, he seems to lack end product and sort of bumbles forward but love the way he goes for it and will not always take easy option of just giving the ball off. Linked well with Freeman and kept trying to move us up the pitch. Barely lost a header or a tackle and made some crucial blocks and tackles when Coventry did get into the las third and sense an opportunity.


O’Connell 7.5/10- Another assured performance. Once again attacked the ball all game both on the floor and in the air. Committed in the tackle, read the game well and was able to win most things he needed to. A couple of hesitant moments apart, he defended with intelligence and aggression. He also showed he can be decent on the ball and put in a few better crosses than more forward players. He has been very consistent most of this season and shows a real determination to win 50-50 balls.


Wright 7/10 – Steady game as per usual but he did give it away once that nearly put us in trouble. He also was a bit sloppy in moving the ball on as it was too slow all over the field. He was not troubled too much in terms of clear chances but it became clear we did not really need 3 at the back with just Tudgay up the top. He came off as we made a brave move to go 3 up top and more direct/offensive. Keeps up incredible winning record in the side.


Fleck 7.5/10 – First half he was poor in both passing and also defensive work. He was maybe a 5 or 6 at best. Second half he was an 8 or 9 and like a different man! I felt it was the worst he had been for some time and that he was a bit complacent. The midfield overall were playing it back too much and there was little penetration. He did put one good ball in though for Hanson that he should have scored. Second half we stepped it up and so did he. He started to drive at players and make things happen. It was all quicker and with more purpose. Set up the first with a great cross and then scored the second with a great run and finish as the defence opened up. Clearly loved scoring against his former club! After this the confidence oozed through him and others as we started to totally dominate and were in complete control. Shows he made a superb decision to move to United to the side that should finish champions to the likely bottom of the table side.


Coutts 7/10 – Thought first half like many he was not quite at it and gave it away quite a bit, turning into trouble or was sloppy with his passing. He kept looking for it but it was all sideways and backwards and this just allowed Coventry to get back into position. He nearly scored a comedy own goa with an over hit back pass but Moore got back. He also lost his man a few times and had to chase back and recover mistakes. It just was very sloppy overall and the midfield were not sharp enough both attacking and defensively. Second half he improved and started driving more, linking with likes of Freeman and Fleck and we started to play at a better tempo. Carruthers helped in this area and we saw a difference. He finished the game with the sort of form we expect.


Duffy 6.5/10 – Like last week got into some really good positions and moved into spaces. He really does drag players around and always looks to get on the ball and probe/thread balls through. Sadly, for all the great positions he got into, his final ball was really poor. He kept hitting the first man or overplaying it. Went off after the break. Not been able to deliver the key balls recently but due a really good game; last one I saw was art Rochdale so hope he can do it Saturday!


Sharp 5.5/10 – Not his night and feel he has been really off it last few games and not even looked like scoring. He had a few half chances tonight but nothing that close with one turn and shot only real time he looked like scoring. He looks tired to me and spent most of the night trying to fall down and win free kicks and I felt he looked very leggy. Ended up playing more withdrawn than Hanson and Clarke and was right back in defence and midfield at times as United tried something different to win the game. Not surprised he eventually went off and could have gone off a long time before that. Hope he has one last resurgence to end the season but at the moment well off the pace. Did keep working hard and trying to make things work but lost count of number of times he gave the ball away. Both front men did not really offer much and it only changed when we went a bit more direct. The crossing though was abysmal most of the evening.


Hanson 6/10 – Mixed night for him really. I thought he won a lot of headers and really put himself about but many of his headers went to nowhere in particular. Sharp was not close enough to him for long spells to be fair. I felt first half he did well and was one of our stand out players but missed a really good chance. Second half he tired and resorted to grappling. Sometimes he did not get fouls he should have but other times he fouled a lot himself. Gave ball away a few times and set them on the attack with sloppy passes. Some good stuff but also showed limitations. He had a few half chances and did not look close to scoring really. I felt he looked quite languid and limited at times despite some of decent hold up play. I felt he got little help from Sharp.


Subs


Clarke 7.5/10 – Have to say he really made a difference when he came on. He showed some neat and tidy touches taking the ball out of the sky and moved the defenders around. Showed good strength and also hold up play. Also, showed some surprising pace (maybe that is just in comparison to Hanson!) and of course got on the end of a cross to score the crucial first goal. Nearly got one earlier when he made a decent run and was adjudged just offside. It was very close. Helped us see the game out with some good strength and neat play down the left. Ironic that the man much maligned all season may have helped us almost get over the line with a good cameo tonight in an unusual looking forward line.


Carruthers 7.5/10 – Had a really good impact. Still not fit enough and still does not do enough defensively (lets runners go) but he is a strong boy and is really good technically. Love the way he runs with the ball and wants to go forward and his control and passing is good. Think with a full season he could be a big player for us next season. Clearly got a lot of talent. If Wilder can work on his fitness and his defensive side, we may have a gem here. He is a great option at the moment to come on and give us that energy and enthusiasm and I felt helped kick start the extra effort and pace of attacks to get the win.


O’Shea - Came on near the end for Sharp. Had one run and shot over and linked well a few times down the left but also gave it away once too. Decent lad to have around as he can play a number of positions. Not sure he will remain for next season but you never know. He has scored a few crucial goals too.


Manager – Wilder 8/10 – The 8 is for the positive changes. We were not at our best tonight and I felt that we were off the pace, did not press enough and were too slow to move the ball on. First half it was easy as Coventry just got men behind the ball and tried to get us to play through them which was hard. We then went long but had big gaps between the departments of the team. Second half he changed it and we went almost 4-3-3 with Sharp just behind or playing in between Hanson and Clarke. He also kept throwing men forward and Freeman and Lafferty also being more attackers than defenders so it became almost a 2-5-3! Coventry did have a go at times but you felt United could up it and they did. It was not as good as it has been but we did enough to win the game and you have to applaud him going for it with the extra striker. That is something Clough, Wilson and Adkins would never have done. Loved his celebration when the second went in and it showed how much it meant to him. Not sure why the ref had a word. Saw Wilder apologise to Robins after but sure even the opposition manager could understand it. What a job he has done! I am sure he would love to do it on Saturday at his former club.


Ref – Ross Joyce. Bit inconsistent in a game that barely had a bad tackle and resembled a practice match at times as both teams sat off. He at times let it flow and tried to keep things going. I felt maybe too much as a few advantages for both teams were not really advantages. I felt that he could have booked the big centre back before Bigirimana was carded maybe as much for the totting up process of others as his foul. The Fleck booking was obvious as it was quite cynical really. Other than this cannot recall too many bad fouls. He did miss some obvious fouls on Hanson but was not helped by his assistant on the South Stand side who seemed to have a bit of a shocker second half getting a few offsides wrong and not seeing some obvious fouls.


Crowd – 24,334 which was a sizeable crowd but it was odd the kick off was delayed. A lot came in late at the Kop end but John Street was only about two thirds full. Maybe a lot turned up late and it seemed the amount of tickets people were trying to buy caused big problems despite them trying to sell tickets in different places for different games/events. You sensed many had still turned up way too late and heard there were huge queues in the car park. To be fair at 19.45pm it looked like about 16-17,000 were in so a lot did come in late. The Kop filled up to almost full in this period. United fans were noisy at the start as you sensed a special night and there was real anticipation of what might come as the team warmed up and then came out. It went a bit flat as the Fleetwood score came in and even after the leveller at Oxford, it was a nervy sort of atmosphere. Things did liven up second half as the subs and impetus started to go with United. The goals signalled huge roars and then the fans helped them over the line as everyone realised how close United are.


Coventry brought around 350-400 fans so more than the rumoured 150 and did their best for the team with some ironic chants ‘How s**t must you be we are drawing away?!’ and ‘Accrington Stanley we’re coming for you!’ They seemed to enjoy chanting the Fleetwood score to deny us our moment of glory and mocking our less than impressive first half performance. I am not going to talk about what happened in December too much. I understand how annoyed Coventry fans must be but they did take the protest way too far trying to hijack a game completely. I did not agree with the pro SISU chants in response I have to say and there have been some pathetic comments from both sets of fans since. Coventry fans do not deserve what happened to them at all but it was disappointing how they have handled things somewhat and kind of odd no one has turned up this season but suddenly 44,000 turn up at Wembley. I know they do not want to give SISU any more money but I am not sure United would ever get to the crowds and lack of support for their club that they have done.


Back to United be great to get almost sell outs for the last 5 games (3 away sell outs and 2 home sell outs) and sure that will be close to reality. Hopefully if we do go up Saturday we could maybe seal the title versus Bradford at the Lane. That really would be great. Might be a bit annoying to some that they cannot see the game that seals promotion if they do it on Saturday but sometimes that is the way it goes. I did not have enough loyalty points but will go the beam back and then you will be glad (sad if my reports bore you) to know I am at all the remaining games home and away although MK will come a lot later as staying at the hotel in the ground! Should be a fun few weeks all being well.

 

[blade too long]

 

[super_pig]

SUFC Player Ratings –


Moore 7/10 – Saved a Coutts back pass as he scampered across his goal and saw a few other routine saves. He made one save when ball bounced to Lameiras fortunately but it was still fairly regulation. Cannot recall too many other saves. Took a few through balls but at times was a bit slow to react and ended up kicking one away when he could have just picked it up but overall it was a comfortable night for him.


Freeman 7.5/10 – Another solid game. He did what he had to in terms of defending and got forward well. Showed some lovely touches and link play and continued to pop up into the box to look a threat. His final ball like many others also could have been better but he did put a few decent ones in second half. Started to play higher and higher up the field and got lucky twice when he was caught out as they threw men forward and seemed to have a man over on that side. Maybe should have opted on the cautious approach when it was 2-0 but was still bombing forward but that attitude has got us to the top.


Lafferty 6/10 – Have to say he is a frustrating player. Defended quite well and did some sensible things with clever back passes, clearances and interceptions but he also is maddening in that his passing and crossing can be woeful. First half he gave it away constantly and looked quite slow to get back when he did. His crossing was awful as he failed to beat the first man time after time. He did have a better spell second half but even then his crossing was terrible and he just kept failing to deliver. He chipped a few into the box but straight to the keeper. He does do some good things and keeps to his position quite well but quality wise he is lacking at times and has to provide a much better final ball.


Basham 8/10 – I have to say I was one of his biggest critics earlier in the season. The last couple of months he has been immense. Superb in all aspects of his game. Defending well, attacking with urgency and taking the ball to the opponents and committing men. At times, he seems to lack end product and sort of bumbles forward but love the way he goes for it and will not always take easy option of just giving the ball off. Linked well with Freeman and kept trying to move us up the pitch. Barely lost a header or a tackle and made some crucial blocks and tackles when Coventry did get into the las third and sense an opportunity.


O’Connell 7.5/10- Another assured performance. Once again attacked the ball all game both on the floor and in the air. Committed in the tackle, read the game well and was able to win most things he needed to. A couple of hesitant moments apart, he defended with intelligence and aggression. He also showed he can be decent on the ball and put in a few better crosses than more forward players. He has been very consistent most of this season and shows a real determination to win 50-50 balls.


Wright 7/10 – Steady game as per usual but he did give it away once that nearly put us in trouble. He also was a bit sloppy in moving the ball on as it was too slow all over the field. He was not troubled too much in terms of clear chances but it became clear we did not really need 3 at the back with just Tudgay up the top. He came off as we made a brave move to go 3 up top and more direct/offensive. Keeps up incredible winning record in the side.


Fleck 7.5/10 – First half he was poor in both passing and also defensive work. He was maybe a 5 or 6 at best. Second half he was an 8 or 9 and like a different man! I felt it was the worst he had been for some time and that he was a bit complacent. The midfield overall were playing it back too much and there was little penetration. He did put one good ball in though for Hanson that he should have scored. Second half we stepped it up and so did he. He started to drive at players and make things happen. It was all quicker and with more purpose. Set up the first with a great cross and then scored the second with a great run and finish as the defence opened up. Clearly loved scoring against his former club! After this the confidence oozed through him and others as we started to totally dominate and were in complete control. Shows he made a superb decision to move to United to the side that should finish champions to the likely bottom of the table side.


Coutts 7/10 – Thought first half like many he was not quite at it and gave it away quite a bit, turning into trouble or was sloppy with his passing. He kept looking for it but it was all sideways and backwards and this just allowed Coventry to get back into position. He nearly scored a comedy own goa with an over hit back pass but Moore got back. He also lost his man a few times and had to chase back and recover mistakes. It just was very sloppy overall and the midfield were not sharp enough both attacking and defensively. Second half he improved and started driving more, linking with likes of Freeman and Fleck and we started to play at a better tempo. Carruthers helped in this area and we saw a difference. He finished the game with the sort of form we expect.


Duffy 6.5/10 – Like last week got into some really good positions and moved into spaces. He really does drag players around and always looks to get on the ball and probe/thread balls through. Sadly, for all the great positions he got into, his final ball was really poor. He kept hitting the first man or overplaying it. Went off after the break. Not been able to deliver the key balls recently but due a really good game; last one I saw was art Rochdale so hope he can do it Saturday!


Sharp 5.5/10 – Not his night and feel he has been really off it last few games and not even looked like scoring. He had a few half chances tonight but nothing that close with one turn and shot only real time he looked like scoring. He looks tired to me and spent most of the night trying to fall down and win free kicks and I felt he looked very leggy. Ended up playing more withdrawn than Hanson and Clarke and was right back in defence and midfield at times as United tried something different to win the game. Not surprised he eventually went off and could have gone off a long time before that. Hope he has one last resurgence to end the season but at the moment well off the pace. Did keep working hard and trying to make things work but lost count of number of times he gave the ball away. Both front men did not really offer much and it only changed when we went a bit more direct. The crossing though was abysmal most of the evening.


Hanson 6/10 – Mixed night for him really. I thought he won a lot of headers and really put himself about but many of his headers went to nowhere in particular. Sharp was not close enough to him for long spells to be fair. I felt first half he did well and was one of our stand out players but missed a really good chance. Second half he tired and resorted to grappling. Sometimes he did not get fouls he should have but other times he fouled a lot himself. Gave ball away a few times and set them on the attack with sloppy passes. Some good stuff but also showed limitations. He had a few half chances and did not look close to scoring really. I felt he looked quite languid and limited at times despite some of decent hold up play. I felt he got little help from Sharp.


Subs


Clarke 7.5/10 – Have to say he really made a difference when he came on. He showed some neat and tidy touches taking the ball out of the sky and moved the defenders around. Showed good strength and also hold up play. Also, showed some surprising pace (maybe that is just in comparison to Hanson!) and of course got on the end of a cross to score the crucial first goal. Nearly got one earlier when he made a decent run and was adjudged just offside. It was very close. Helped us see the game out with some good strength and neat play down the left. Ironic that the man much maligned all season may have helped us almost get over the line with a good cameo tonight in an unusual looking forward line.


Carruthers 7.5/10 – Had a really good impact. Still not fit enough and still does not do enough defensively (lets runners go) but he is a strong boy and is really good technically. Love the way he runs with the ball and wants to go forward and his control and passing is good. Think with a full season he could be a big player for us next season. Clearly got a lot of talent. If Wilder can work on his fitness and his defensive side, we may have a gem here. He is a great option at the moment to come on and give us that energy and enthusiasm and I felt helped kick start the extra effort and pace of attacks to get the win.


O’Shea - Came on near the end for Sharp. Had one run and shot over and linked well a few times down the left but also gave it away once too. Decent lad to have around as he can play a number of positions. Not sure he will remain for next season but you never know. He has scored a few crucial goals too.


Manager – Wilder 8/10 – The 8 is for the positive changes. We were not at our best tonight and I felt that we were off the pace, did not press enough and were too slow to move the ball on. First half it was easy as Coventry just got men behind the ball and tried to get us to play through them which was hard. We then went long but had big gaps between the departments of the team. Second half he changed it and we went almost 4-3-3 with Sharp just behind or playing in between Hanson and Clarke. He also kept throwing men forward and Freeman and Lafferty also being more attackers than defenders so it became almost a 2-5-3! Coventry did have a go at times but you felt United could up it and they did. It was not as good as it has been but we did enough to win the game and you have to applaud him going for it with the extra striker. That is something Clough, Wilson and Adkins would never have done. Loved his celebration when the second went in and it showed how much it meant to him. Not sure why the ref had a word. Saw Wilder apologise to Robins after but sure even the opposition manager could understand it. What a job he has done! I am sure he would love to do it on Saturday at his former club.


Ref – Ross Joyce. Bit inconsistent in a game that barely had a bad tackle and resembled a practice match at times as both teams sat off. He at times let it flow and tried to keep things going. I felt maybe too much as a few advantages for both teams were not really advantages. I felt that he could have booked the big centre back before Bigirimana was carded maybe as much for the totting up process of others as his foul. The Fleck booking was obvious as it was quite cynical really. Other than this cannot recall too many bad fouls. He did miss some obvious fouls on Hanson but was not helped by his assistant on the South Stand side who seemed to have a bit of a shocker second half getting a few offsides wrong and not seeing some obvious fouls.


Crowd – 24,334 which was a sizeable crowd but it was odd the kick off was delayed. A lot came in late at the Kop end but John Street was only about two thirds full. Maybe a lot turned up late and it seemed the amount of tickets people were trying to buy caused big problems despite them trying to sell tickets in different places for different games/events. You sensed many had still turned up way too late and heard there were huge queues in the car park. To be fair at 19.45pm it looked like about 16-17,000 were in so a lot did come in late. The Kop filled up to almost full in this period. United fans were noisy at the start as you sensed a special night and there was real anticipation of what might come as the team warmed up and then came out. It went a bit flat as the Fleetwood score came in and even after the leveller at Oxford, it was a nervy sort of atmosphere. Things did liven up second half as the subs and impetus started to go with United. The goals signalled huge roars and then the fans helped them over the line as everyone realised how close United are.


Coventry brought around 350-400 fans so more than the rumoured 150 and did their best for the team with some ironic chants ‘How s**t must you be we are drawing away?!’ and ‘Accrington Stanley we’re coming for you!’ They seemed to enjoy chanting the Fleetwood score to deny us our moment of glory and mocking our less than impressive first half performance. I am not going to talk about what happened in December too much. I understand how annoyed Coventry fans must be but they did take the protest way too far trying to hijack a game completely. I did not agree with the pro SISU chants in response I have to say and there have been some pathetic comments from both sets of fans since. Coventry fans do not deserve what happened to them at all but it was disappointing how they have handled things somewhat and kind of odd no one has turned up this season but suddenly 44,000 turn up at Wembley. I know they do not want to give SISU any more money but I am not sure United would ever get to the crowds and lack of support for their club that they have done.


Back to United be great to get almost sell outs for the last 5 games (3 away sell outs and 2 home sell outs) and sure that will be close to reality. Hopefully if we do go up Saturday we could maybe seal the title versus Bradford at the Lane. That really would be great. Might be a bit annoying to some that they cannot see the game that seals promotion if they do it on Saturday but sometimes that is the way it goes. I did not have enough loyalty points but will go the beam back and then you will be glad (sad if my reports bore you) to know I am at all the remaining games home and away although MK will come a lot later as staying at the hotel in the ground! Should be a fun few weeks all being well.

hanson 6?.. you're having a laugh mate.. he won nearly every header.. billy doesn't anticipate the flick ons.. that's not a criticism he's not used to it
Bash MoM for me .. immense today

 

[Deadbat]

Hanson won headers but his general play was mixed. He gave it away a lot too - set them on the attack three times! He also missed a sitter and hit another poor finish first half. He huffed and puffed but not sure he affected much in general play that led to chances really. He worked hard but lacks quality for me but has given us a real different option. I have to say Sharp has been really poor in recent times.

Hanson might get another 0.5 at a push but not sure he was a 7/10 really

 

[Rodley]

Hanson low and Freeman a bit high.

Can't knock em though. Great bunch of lads!

 

[Rodley]

hanson 6?.. you're having a laugh mate.. he won nearly every header.. billy doesn't anticipate the flick ons.. that's not a criticism he's not used to it
Bash MoM for me .. immense today

Some of Hanson's headers seem to defy the laws of physics - reaching teammates at more and more improbable angles. I think he could be the best header of the ball ive ever seen for SUFC.

 

[RammyBlade]

Great report Deadbat and I agree with your assessment of Basham as MOM even though Fleck was given it officially. Bash was all over the pitch here there and everywhere - a real man of the match performance

 

[blade too long]

last 12 games

WWDDWDWWWDWW

NOW WHICH IS THE BIT THAT SAYS BLADES ALWAYS CRUMBLE

 

[Antonb]

another fantastic report, thankyou, harsh on laferty though who I thought over the 90 mins was solid as a rock.

 

[diplomat]

I thought their number five was good. In general they were quite organised. The subs wilder made turned it into a more open game and was a bit basketball for a spell, really end to end. Having two big lads caused a bit of chaos and I think the idea was that billy would pick up some scraps and though it didn't turn out that way the fact Clarke got the crucial breakthrough despite being on the periphery for so long is a testament to this squad.

Wilder doing a klinnsman dive to celebrate a goal has to be one of the best things I've seen. I hope there are some good photos of that.

We ground it out and bar one effort they had at 0-0 I didn't feel like they'd score but they might frustrate. Fleck's right shovel doing the biz.

Onward and upward. I want that title.

 

[HillmortonBlade]

The lad in the middle though Bigirimana was really poor

I thought their number five was good

What a game is football, all about opinions. I'm glad you said that Diplomat, I thought the same. Not saying he was great, but he caused us more problems in the first half than any of the other Coventry players. Second half, you could tell he was exhausted though.

 

[Sirius]

SUFC Player Ratings –


Moore 7/10 – Saved a Coutts back pass as he scampered across his goal and saw a few other routine saves. He made one save when ball bounced to Lameiras fortunately but it was still fairly regulation. Cannot recall too many other saves. Took a few through balls but at times was a bit slow to react and ended up kicking one away when he could have just picked it up but overall it was a comfortable night for him.


Freeman 7.5/10 – Another solid game. He did what he had to in terms of defending and got forward well. Showed some lovely touches and link play and continued to pop up into the box to look a threat. His final ball like many others also could have been better but he did put a few decent ones in second half. Started to play higher and higher up the field and got lucky twice when he was caught out as they threw men forward and seemed to have a man over on that side. Maybe should have opted on the cautious approach when it was 2-0 but was still bombing forward but that attitude has got us to the top.


Lafferty 6/10 – Have to say he is a frustrating player. Defended quite well and did some sensible things with clever back passes, clearances and interceptions but he also is maddening in that his passing and crossing can be woeful. First half he gave it away constantly and looked quite slow to get back when he did. His crossing was awful as he failed to beat the first man time after time. He did have a better spell second half but even then his crossing was terrible and he just kept failing to deliver. He chipped a few into the box but straight to the keeper. He does do some good things and keeps to his position quite well but quality wise he is lacking at times and has to provide a much better final ball.


Basham 8/10 – I have to say I was one of his biggest critics earlier in the season. The last couple of months he has been immense. Superb in all aspects of his game. Defending well, attacking with urgency and taking the ball to the opponents and committing men. At times, he seems to lack end product and sort of bumbles forward but love the way he goes for it and will not always take easy option of just giving the ball off. Linked well with Freeman and kept trying to move us up the pitch. Barely lost a header or a tackle and made some crucial blocks and tackles when Coventry did get into the las third and sense an opportunity.


O’Connell 7.5/10- Another assured performance. Once again attacked the ball all game both on the floor and in the air. Committed in the tackle, read the game well and was able to win most things he needed to. A couple of hesitant moments apart, he defended with intelligence and aggression. He also showed he can be decent on the ball and put in a few better crosses than more forward players. He has been very consistent most of this season and shows a real determination to win 50-50 balls.


Wright 7/10 – Steady game as per usual but he did give it away once that nearly put us in trouble. He also was a bit sloppy in moving the ball on as it was too slow all over the field. He was not troubled too much in terms of clear chances but it became clear we did not really need 3 at the back with just Tudgay up the top. He came off as we made a brave move to go 3 up top and more direct/offensive. Keeps up incredible winning record in the side.


Fleck 7.5/10 – First half he was poor in both passing and also defensive work. He was maybe a 5 or 6 at best. Second half he was an 8 or 9 and like a different man! I felt it was the worst he had been for some time and that he was a bit complacent. The midfield overall were playing it back too much and there was little penetration. He did put one good ball in though for Hanson that he should have scored. Second half we stepped it up and so did he. He started to drive at players and make things happen. It was all quicker and with more purpose. Set up the first with a great cross and then scored the second with a great run and finish as the defence opened up. Clearly loved scoring against his former club! After this the confidence oozed through him and others as we started to totally dominate and were in complete control. Shows he made a superb decision to move to United to the side that should finish champions to the likely bottom of the table side.


Coutts 7/10 – Thought first half like many he was not quite at it and gave it away quite a bit, turning into trouble or was sloppy with his passing. He kept looking for it but it was all sideways and backwards and this just allowed Coventry to get back into position. He nearly scored a comedy own goa with an over hit back pass but Moore got back. He also lost his man a few times and had to chase back and recover mistakes. It just was very sloppy overall and the midfield were not sharp enough both attacking and defensively. Second half he improved and started driving more, linking with likes of Freeman and Fleck and we started to play at a better tempo. Carruthers helped in this area and we saw a difference. He finished the game with the sort of form we expect.


Duffy 6.5/10 – Like last week got into some really good positions and moved into spaces. He really does drag players around and always looks to get on the ball and probe/thread balls through. Sadly, for all the great positions he got into, his final ball was really poor. He kept hitting the first man or overplaying it. Went off after the break. Not been able to deliver the key balls recently but due a really good game; last one I saw was art Rochdale so hope he can do it Saturday!


Sharp 5.5/10 – Not his night and feel he has been really off it last few games and not even looked like scoring. He had a few half chances tonight but nothing that close with one turn and shot only real time he looked like scoring. He looks tired to me and spent most of the night trying to fall down and win free kicks and I felt he looked very leggy. Ended up playing more withdrawn than Hanson and Clarke and was right back in defence and midfield at times as United tried something different to win the game. Not surprised he eventually went off and could have gone off a long time before that. Hope he has one last resurgence to end the season but at the moment well off the pace. Did keep working hard and trying to make things work but lost count of number of times he gave the ball away. Both front men did not really offer much and it only changed when we went a bit more direct. The crossing though was abysmal most of the evening.


Hanson 6/10 – Mixed night for him really. I thought he won a lot of headers and really put himself about but many of his headers went to nowhere in particular. Sharp was not close enough to him for long spells to be fair. I felt first half he did well and was one of our stand out players but missed a really good chance. Second half he tired and resorted to grappling. Sometimes he did not get fouls he should have but other times he fouled a lot himself. Gave ball away a few times and set them on the attack with sloppy passes. Some good stuff but also showed limitations. He had a few half chances and did not look close to scoring really. I felt he looked quite languid and limited at times despite some of decent hold up play. I felt he got little help from Sharp.


Subs


Clarke 7.5/10 – Have to say he really made a difference when he came on. He showed some neat and tidy touches taking the ball out of the sky and moved the defenders around. Showed good strength and also hold up play. Also, showed some surprising pace (maybe that is just in comparison to Hanson!) and of course got on the end of a cross to score the crucial first goal. Nearly got one earlier when he made a decent run and was adjudged just offside. It was very close. Helped us see the game out with some good strength and neat play down the left. Ironic that the man much maligned all season may have helped us almost get over the line with a good cameo tonight in an unusual looking forward line.


Carruthers 7.5/10 – Had a really good impact. Still not fit enough and still does not do enough defensively (lets runners go) but he is a strong boy and is really good technically. Love the way he runs with the ball and wants to go forward and his control and passing is good. Think with a full season he could be a big player for us next season. Clearly got a lot of talent. If Wilder can work on his fitness and his defensive side, we may have a gem here. He is a great option at the moment to come on and give us that energy and enthusiasm and I felt helped kick start the extra effort and pace of attacks to get the win.


O’Shea - Came on near the end for Sharp. Had one run and shot over and linked well a few times down the left but also gave it away once too. Decent lad to have around as he can play a number of positions. Not sure he will remain for next season but you never know. He has scored a few crucial goals too.


Manager – Wilder 8/10 – The 8 is for the positive changes. We were not at our best tonight and I felt that we were off the pace, did not press enough and were too slow to move the ball on. First half it was easy as Coventry just got men behind the ball and tried to get us to play through them which was hard. We then went long but had big gaps between the departments of the team. Second half he changed it and we went almost 4-3-3 with Sharp just behind or playing in between Hanson and Clarke. He also kept throwing men forward and Freeman and Lafferty also being more attackers than defenders so it became almost a 2-5-3! Coventry did have a go at times but you felt United could up it and they did. It was not as good as it has been but we did enough to win the game and you have to applaud him going for it with the extra striker. That is something Clough, Wilson and Adkins would never have done. Loved his celebration when the second went in and it showed how much it meant to him. Not sure why the ref had a word. Saw Wilder apologise to Robins after but sure even the opposition manager could understand it. What a job he has done! I am sure he would love to do it on Saturday at his former club.


Ref – Ross Joyce. Bit inconsistent in a game that barely had a bad tackle and resembled a practice match at times as both teams sat off. He at times let it flow and tried to keep things going. I felt maybe too much as a few advantages for both teams were not really advantages. I felt that he could have booked the big centre back before Bigirimana was carded maybe as much for the totting up process of others as his foul. The Fleck booking was obvious as it was quite cynical really. Other than this cannot recall too many bad fouls. He did miss some obvious fouls on Hanson but was not helped by his assistant on the South Stand side who seemed to have a bit of a shocker second half getting a few offsides wrong and not seeing some obvious fouls.


Crowd – 24,334 which was a sizeable crowd but it was odd the kick off was delayed. A lot came in late at the Kop end but John Street was only about two thirds full. Maybe a lot turned up late and it seemed the amount of tickets people were trying to buy caused big problems despite them trying to sell tickets in different places for different games/events. You sensed many had still turned up way too late and heard there were huge queues in the car park. To be fair at 19.45pm it looked like about 16-17,000 were in so a lot did come in late. The Kop filled up to almost full in this period. United fans were noisy at the start as you sensed a special night and there was real anticipation of what might come as the team warmed up and then came out. It went a bit flat as the Fleetwood score came in and even after the leveller at Oxford, it was a nervy sort of atmosphere. Things did liven up second half as the subs and impetus started to go with United. The goals signalled huge roars and then the fans helped them over the line as everyone realised how close United are.


Coventry brought around 350-400 fans so more than the rumoured 150 and did their best for the team with some ironic chants ‘How s**t must you be we are drawing away?!’ and ‘Accrington Stanley we’re coming for you!’ They seemed to enjoy chanting the Fleetwood score to deny us our moment of glory and mocking our less than impressive first half performance. I am not going to talk about what happened in December too much. I understand how annoyed Coventry fans must be but they did take the protest way too far trying to hijack a game completely. I did not agree with the pro SISU chants in response I have to say and there have been some pathetic comments from both sets of fans since. Coventry fans do not deserve what happened to them at all but it was disappointing how they have handled things somewhat and kind of odd no one has turned up this season but suddenly 44,000 turn up at Wembley. I know they do not want to give SISU any more money but I am not sure United would ever get to the crowds and lack of support for their club that they have done.


Back to United be great to get almost sell outs for the last 5 games (3 away sell outs and 2 home sell outs) and sure that will be close to reality. Hopefully if we do go up Saturday we could maybe seal the title versus Bradford at the Lane. That really would be great. Might be a bit annoying to some that they cannot see the game that seals promotion if they do it on Saturday but sometimes that is the way it goes. I did not have enough loyalty points but will go the beam back and then you will be glad (sad if my reports bore you) to know I am at all the remaining games home and away although MK will come a lot later as staying at the hotel in the ground! Should be a fun few weeks all being well.

Thanks again DB. Saw the second half and very impressed by the team and by your take on the game. IMO the club should Employ you home and away to report

 

[Iceybabey]

I thought Laffs had a better game than Freeman and was more involved. Freeman didn't do owt tbh, not like he had much to do anyway.

The lad Jones, their number 10. I thought he was absolutley shocking and tbh I don't know how he's playing at this level. I remember him winning the ball on the far right and then he just pointlessly blasted it out for a throwing. His touch was terrible and his decision making was even worse.

 

[Ricky]

Moore - 6
Freeman - 6.5
Basham - 8 (as usual)
Wright - 6
O'Connell - 7
Lafferty - 6
Coutts - 7
Fleck - 7.5
Duffy - 6
Hanson - 6
Sharp - 6

Clarke - 7.5
Carruthers - 8

 

[The Crab]

Thank you Deadbat.

 

[Houso]

Thanks as ever DB but I had Lafferty among our best and Bigirimana their best!

 

[blader]

I thought we had become more 'football educated' in recent years than what I am reading on here currently. I've said as much on another thread. Hanson can head a ball, he's really good at it. Seriously though.m, what else did he do? You can't be classed as a decent striker if all you do is win headers from a hoof. He didn't link up play, he doesn't make space, his passing is dreadful and his shooting is comically bad!

In all for. Hanson as 'an option' for the last10, but he doesn't offer anything to our team other than headers. It is absolutely no coincidence that sharp has had a dip in form recently. What's worse is, Sharp is now criticised for not play My well, despite us all (surely) knowing exactly why.

Sharp needs ball to feet, chances in the box. All he had to feed on last night were flick ons. This means Hanson is applauded for winning the flick on and Sharp is criticised for not getting there. Sharp has been tried and tested in this style of football and we know full well it doesn't work for him. Whatever you think of Hanson, even if you think he's decent (which apart from his heading and 'effort' he isn't good at anything!) they will never form a successful partnership. Particularly for Sharp - the country's top scorer - need I remind you!

Hanson is the type of striker I thought we were passed as a club, but our fans still seem to have a love for a non-scoring oaf of a striker. Especially some preferring him to Sharp just confuses me hugely!

 

[LSF]

I thought Laffs had a better game than Freeman and was more involved. Freeman didn't do owt tbh, not like he had much to do anyway.

The lad Jones, their number 10. I thought he was absolutley shocking and tbh I don't know how he's playing at this level. I remember him winning the ball on the far right and then he just pointlessly blasted it out for a throwing. His touch was terrible and his decision making was even worse.

Opinions eh! We thought their 10 looked quite useful at times and gave us a problem or two.

 

[Blade58]

I thought we had become more 'football educated' in recent years than what I am reading on here currently. I've said as much on another thread. Hanson can head a ball, he's really good at it. Seriously though.m, what else did he do? You can't be classed as a decent striker if all you do is win headers from a hoof. He didn't link up play, he doesn't make space, his passing is dreadful and his shooting is comically bad!

In all for. Hanson as 'an option' for the last10, but he doesn't offer anything to our team other than headers. It is absolutely no coincidence that sharp has had a dip in form recently. What's worse is, Sharp is now criticised for not play My well, despite us all (surely) knowing exactly why.

Sharp needs ball to feet, chances in the box. All he had to feed on last night were flick ons. This means Hanson is applauded for winning the flick on and Sharp is criticised for not getting there. Sharp has been tried and tested in this style of football and we know full well it doesn't work for him. Whatever you think of Hanson, even if you think he's decent (which apart from his heading and 'effort' he isn't good at anything!) they will never form a successful partnership. Particularly for Sharp - the country's top scorer - need I remind you!

Hanson is the type of striker I thought we were passed as a club, but our fans still seem to have a love for a non-scoring oaf of a striker. Especially some preferring him to Sharp just confuses me hugely!

Can't fault his work rate and ethic. it fits in with the rest of the team.I also thought he did well at winning headers, but not sure what good it did us. Very often the header was undirected and BS was nowhere in sight. I'd much prefer he got onto his headers in the box as a strike at goal, but the quality of the crossing was below par last night

What infuriates me with Hanson is his poor distribution at times, even a 5 yard pass seems to miss his man more often than it should

The question is: Can he make the step up to the Championship? But tbh, that's a question for CW and AK to answer

 

[Pinchy]

Fleck was MoM. Scored one and made one. Two absolutely crucial contributions. You can't look past that.

Delighted for Leon. He'll come into his own now he's fully fit. He's consistently proven himself to be a real force at this level and is a far far better player than many on here like to think.

 

[MoscowBlade]

United took another huge step to Promotion as they eventually saw off plucky Coventry at Bramall Lane. Despite the news coming in that Fleetwood had won at Oxford denying the Blades the chance to go up tonight, United know the three points still puts them on the verge of promotion.


Goals from ex Sky Blues men Clarke and Fleck sealed the victory in a game that United were not quite at their best but they still did enough as an improved second half and two substitutions contributed massively to the win.


Manager Wilder named an unchanged side again whilst Coventry manager Robins made some changes bringing back cup tied players and some fresher bodies after their Wembley win. The game was delayed due to congestion outside as lots of fans clearly wanted to be in attendance to witness a potential promotion sealing game.


Coventry set up with just one up top in experienced former Wednesday man Tudgay as United saw most of the early ball but a few sloppy moments saw the crowd become a little anxious and Bigirimana had a shot well off target for Coventry. Lafferty got into some good positions but wasted crosses before Hanson got in down the right but his shot lacked power and was easily saved by Burge. Coutts and Fleck had not been as assured on the ball and Duffy also could not make the final pass when well- placed and the game was quite scrappy. Coventry tried to get men forward when they could but there were few chances. Both teams had plenty of time on the ball with little pressing but neither side were particularly dangerous.


United had a good effort when Lafferty fired into the side netting from outside the box and then soon after had the best chance of the game as Coutts played in Fleck whose cross was met on the full by Hanson who volleyed over. It was a really good chance and one he should have taken.


Bigirimana was booked for a poor foul on Duffy but the final moments of the half were played without any real incidents. United had not really got going despite having a lot of the ball and Coventry were happy to sit back and try and make them get through them. Hanson had won a number of headers but United had not got bodies around him and also were too ponderous in set up play taking an age to transfer play or lacking any tempo to attacks.


The second half saw Willis taken off to be replaced by Stevenson and Jones had a decent effort but fired over. Manager Wilder did not mess around and two changes came early in the second half. Carruthers and Clarke came on for Duffy and also Wright as United went to a flat back four but with full backs still pushing on and Sharp now was playing in between Hanson and Clarke with the latter operating in an old fashioned inside left forward position. Sharp had a half volley well wide after good work from Clarke and Hanson as the game started to open up.


Carruthers was getting on the ball and Freeman was also causing issues down the right. Clarke nearly got in but as the ball broke off the keeper after a lovely through ball, Sharp converted the rebound bur Clarke had been flagged offside on the original chance.


Lameiras then got on the end of a fortunate deflection after poor defending in the lead up and had the best chance for City but shot tamely at Moore. You sensed United were now going for it and buoyed by this let off, they started to put more men forward. A half chance for Sharp was blocked leading to a corner and then a series of passes saw Coutts cross and the ball was cleared after it did not drop.


On 70 minutes the breakthrough finally came. A throw in down the left saw Fleck get a yard of space and his excellent cross was across the box and met by CLARKE who swept home at the Kop end signalling a huge roar and a sense of relief from most inside Bramall Lane.


This goal saw United settle down and they started to keep it well. Carruthers nearly got in after another decent run but on 75 minutes FLECK got the vital second goal. The former City man drove at the defence that seemed to open up like the red …should that be skyblue sea and he kept going and going before hitting a superb shot right into the corner past the dive of Burge. Fleck dived in front of the South Stand in celebration and as his teammates joined him they were met by a diving Chris Wilder who leapt onto the pitch. The referee had to have a quiet word with Wilder over his exuberance but you could sense how important it was.


After this United took complete control and knocked it about well. Sharp came off for O’Shea and it was keep ball for the final stages. O’Shea shot over and then Hanson did likewise. Clarke showed good work down the left to keep the ball and although Fleck got booked for a foul, Coventry never really threatened. Four minutes of additional time came but the result was never in doubt.


The final whistle went and United players as customary celebrated with the crowd and will turn their attentions to the game at Northampton on Saturday when a win will seal promotion. Other results could also lead to the Blades going up regardless of the outcome at Sixfields and United really are in a great position now and surely the long spell in League One is finally coming to an end.


United – Not the best we have been. First half we were off it both on and off the ball. I felt we did not press and let them have too much time on the ball. It was all a bit easy but fortunately Coventry were very wasteful with it not causing us too many problems. Going the other way, we were too slow to move it and we allowed them to get men behind the ball. It was slow and pedestrian and at times we gave it away too easily. We took too long to get it forward and then when we could not pass it through ended up trying to lump it but no one was close enough to Hanson. Can see why we did it as they compressed the play and restricted space and at times got all 11 men behind the ball. We tried to get it up the pitch quicker but we lacked penetration.


The final cross was pathetic from United I have to say. I lost count of the number of times we hit the first man or sent it too far. This continued all game with maybe only a couple of decent crosses all game; one from Fleck first half to Hanson and then another from Coutts that just missed the strikers. The only other one led to the goal from Fleck to Clarke. The crossing has at times been really poor this season despite some excellent performances. As poor as Sharp and also Hanson were at times tonight they got littler service.


Second half after Coventry had a little spell and a half chance which Moore saved after the ball broke, we came to life We started to drive forward and Carruthers was running at them, Fleck started to be more aggressive and Coutts and Freeman were starting to link up well. The final ball continued to be poor but Coventry were being pressed back. Clarke and Hanson meant they had two men to think about and even though we had two giants up top I am not sure we lumped it anymore than we had in the first half and our best moves came from balls into feet to those two and then getting players playing off them. Wilder just went for it and Sharp ended up more behind these front two but it was in affect three strikers as Coventry started to sit back deeper and deeper.


We had the offside chance that nearly led to a goal and then we got the break through when Fleck put in a super cross and Clarke was in the right spot to convert. Fleck then scored a great goal and we completely settled down. It was a 5-10 minute burst but was enough to see off a spirited but also tiring side. After this we moved it around nicely and I felt if we had needed to we could have scored more but just saw things out. So overall not the best performance but enough for the win and in the end a professional second half after the stuttering first half when the team seemed a bit nervous and cautious and this led to some mistakes. To just get another win was all that mattered. Shame we could not go up tonight but we are so close now. You sense it should happen at the weekend but it clearly seems a matter of when now rather than if. I really want us to drive on and get the title and try and get to 100 points. We still have 15 to play for. I cannot see us losing more than one game at most if we do have a dip and with some poor sides to play like Vale and Chesterfield that should be wins, we have to just have the right tempo Saturday. I am not sure how much Northampton and MK Dons will care if we tear into them and start well in such games. After all the results this midweek it is, as it was and we maintain a lovely cushion over both 2nd and 3rd. Bradford cannot catch us now and Fleetwood surely have given up the ghost on us you would think. Looking forward to hopefully enjoying a relatively stress free run in.

–


Coventry – They did ok and were not the worst side we have seen all season despite the league position. They did defend for long spells and Robins has made them more organised and resilient but had a few attacks. It was not all defensive and they can say they got into some decent positons but the final ball was really wasteful. They had won 3 games in a row before tonight and tonight they battled hard. They did not have lots of chances but did get men forward and had a few openings. They lacked a bit of quality but will say we did not create much and got men behind the ball and broke things up when we got into the final third. It was quite defensive for spells but did try and get extra bodies up when they broke. They did chase things near the end but when it went 2-0 they started to really tire. They changed quite a few from Sunday but you sensed as the game went on the belief started to ebb away.


They will go down but Robins is a decent manager at this level and they have some decent young players. Pompey have shown though that it is not straightforward to get out of the league below as it has taken them quite a while. They face major uncertainty with no stadium after next year and may have to move to the small Rugby ground in the city. They also face threats to lose the training ground/academy. It is a real mess and no sign of it ending as SISU will want their money back but does not seem any closer to that happening.


Opponent man of the match : I thought the two centre backs battled hard all game to restrict us and both Turnbull and Clarke kept plugging away. The midfield were decent first half but then they faded second half. The lad Jones did a few nice bits and showed his pace and Lameiras had a few moments but the defenders were probably the stand outs.


Opponent Weak link : Tudgay battled for the ball but had little help up top and he was never in the game really. I thought the lad Willis who is highly rated and nearly went to Rotherham for a bit of money struggled and that we had a lot of openings down the left but wasted those chances. The lad in the middle though Bigirimana was really poor. He scored at Wembley but he was quite dirty tonight fouling and hacking at players. He tired badly and was chasing shadows by the end.

Can't fault his work rate and ethic. it fits in with the rest of the team.I also thought he did well at winning headers, but not sure what good it did us. Very often the header was undirected and BS was nowhere in sight. I'd much prefer he got onto his headers in the box as a strike at goal, but the quality of the crossing was below par last night

What infuriates me with Hanson is his poor distribution at times, even a 5 yard pass seems to miss his man more often than it should

The question is: Can he make the step up to the Championship? But tbh, that's a question for CW and AK to answer

Thanks for the report - as always!

 

[blackydog]

"I thought he won a lot of headers and really put himself about but many of his headers went to nowhere in particular."
Have to disagree with you here DB. One of the things i noted was the directed headers from Hanson, even under pressure and at some ridiculous angles, ie stretched back and sideways.
Thanks for the great report.

 

[Grecian2000]

Thought we started awfully slowly when it might have been better for a quick start while they were still running round Wembley in their heads.
Having said that they set up well and were nowhere near the worst side we've faced at home. It's difficult to chase around without the ball for long periods and this, along with the fact they really needed the points as well, meant the game did eventually open up and we were able to take advantage (although from the Kop it looked like they missed a sitter and might have had a penalty whilst it was still 0-0).

Might have given Hanson 5 instead of 6, thought he was woeful for huge parts of the game and missed a sitter of Paul Williams proportions!

PS: About the crowd turning up late.
I set off at not long after 6:15 and was literally queuing all the way from The Phoenix on White Lane to the ground. Took nearly an hour for my usual 20 minute drive (not to mention then having to park up the North face of Myrtle road).

 

[Yewsman]

Thought Hanson had his best game for us. Don't think he'll do it in the Championship though.

Thought the ref was awful with Hanson. Cov centre half was holding, wrestling and shirt pulling on Hanson all night and got away with it but if Hanson so much as looked at the CH ref gave a free kick. Got worse as the game went on. Apart from that though thought ref did OK.

 

[Fulwood Blade]

Hanson won headers but his general play was mixed. He gave it away a lot too - set them on the attack three times! He also missed a sitter and hit another poor finish first half. He huffed and puffed but not sure he affected much in general play that led to chances really. He worked hard but lacks quality for me but has given us a real different option. I have to say Sharp has been really poor in recent times.

Hanson might get another 0.5 at a push but not sure he was a 7/10 really

Well done for sticking to how you saw it - it's how others see it too. Others want to see it differently which is fine. TBF, Sharp might be the problem with any target man - now that would be a problem too.

What is clear, is how Clarke knows how to hold a ball up properly - properly being the operative word.

UTB

 

[Harrisblade]

last 12 games

WWDDWDWWWDWW

NOW WHICH IS THE BIT THAT SAYS BLADES ALWAYS CRUMBLE

I'm watching carefully - still 5 games left!

UTB!

 

[Rodley]

I thought Laffs had a better game than Freeman and was more involved. Freeman didn't do owt tbh, not like he had much to do anyway.

The lad Jones, their number 10. I thought he was absolutley shocking and tbh I don't know how he's playing at this level. I remember him winning the ball on the far right and then he just pointlessly blasted it out for a throwing. His touch was terrible and his decision making was even worse.

Agreed Laffs did well for me. Freeman was quiet.

 

[diplomat]

Thanks again DB. Saw the second half and very impressed by the team and by your take on the game. IMO the club should Employ you home and away to report

They can't afford his ale bill for away games!

 

[metalblade]

I thought Lafferty was better than Freeman to be honest although it seemed a lot of the time Coventry were overloading onto Freeman who had little help all game. I thought Hanson was worth a 7 he was ragged about all game by their centre back but still won most headers, hardly his fault Billy if never close to him or that he got no help from a piss poor ref who gave everything Coventry's way if he did blow his whistle. Hanson does need a goal though he is snatching at any chances he does get.