Leicester 2 United 3 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

It truly was a game of two halves but the Blades did just enough to see off Leicester City and completed a hat trick of victories inside seven days. After a tremendous first half performance, which saw United score two in the first four minutes and go on to take a three=goal lead, after another Sydie Peck goal, the game turned completely after the break. Two goals from Mavadidi and James gave Leicester hope but despite a completely different performance after the interval, they could not quite find a late leveller. Perhaps tired legs and memories of recent throwaways meant United could not quite put the game to bed as easily as they should but despite the drop off, there should be lots of positives about the way they completely dominated a side fresh down from the Premier League.



It was the first time we scored three in three successive games since 2019 when in Wilder’s first spell, the Blades beat Derby, Blackburn and Wigan around the turn of the year. It also signalled the first victory over Leicester since 2008 – the 17-year drought going back to James Beattie’s quick fire hat trick in a 3-0 victory. Indeed, United had lost 8 straight games to the Foxes and not won at the King Power since Bryan Robson was the manager and Danny Webber netted in a 1-0 win in October 2007.



Wilder rotated the group again with the third game in less than a week. Burrows and Campbell came in for McCallum and Bamford. Leicester started with one former Blades loanee, Luke Thomas, and another Hamza Choudhury on the bench. The Foxes form had been inconsistent and concerns were being raised about the new manager amidst a backdrop of a potential points deduction.



The Blades made the perfect start as they led after only a minute! Brooks won the ball back in the corner but Leicester had opportunities to clear but failed to d so. Seriki came onto the loose ball, nutmegged Thomas and after his cross came over, O’Hare kept the ball alive and Winks completely miskicked the clearance. CANNON reacted and drilled it under Begovic to net his second goal in a week.



United were back on the attack soon after and won a corner. O’Hare kept it alive to head back into the box but Leicester once again could not get it away and O’Hare came onto it and hit a volley that glanced off RIEDEWALD inadvertently before bouncing into the corner of the goal. It was an absolutely dream start for the visiting side who continued their fantastic recent form.



Leicester looked shell shocked but had one chance when Daka flashed a header wide as a dangerous ball came in. The Blades went back on the attack as they realised Leicester’s vulnerability at the back and Cannon and Campell continued to look dangerous. The Blades won a series of corners which were dangerous as Burrows delivery, both near post and far, caused all sorts of problems. A rare Leicester attack saw a ball across but Burrows was able to sweep away.



Another break saw Brooks hit a lovely cross field ball but O’Hare could not gather first time and the chance went away. More incisive football saw Peck break the lines and after a series of swift passes, the ball was transferred to Brooks but his cross with the outside of his foot was cleared behind. United continued to dominate winning every loose ball and playing front foot football. The Blades won another corner and it went from a great first half to sensational as the ball over was once again not cleared and dropped for PECK who hit an tremendous dipping volley first time beyond Begovic and into the net. After waiting so long for a goal, like buses, two came at once for the young England u21 international.



United had another chance when Peck played in Campbell but the striker took too long and his cross/shot was blocked away. Leicester fans were now serenading their players with boos accompanied soon after by ‘You’re not fit to wear the shirt!.’ United fans in contrast sang, ‘3-0 again, ole, ole…’



The next spell was quieter with the chances suddenly abating but the home side had struggled to find any pressure or even sustained football in the United final third. Cannon though broke down the left and looked to replicate his goal at Hillsborough. This time it deflected wide as he looked to find the far corner again. There were two minutes of stoppage time to be played and United really should have made it four nil and finished the game. Peck again played the ball forward and Campbell got down the side but after completely bamboozling James, he fired his shot wide of the far post. He did everything right apart from the finish. The half time whistle came to loud jeers again from the Leicester fans. It had been a perfect first half for Wilder’s Blades.



Leicester made an immediate triple change which was not a surprise really and any one of the home starters could have been hooked. Soumare, Ayew and Skipp came on for Faes, Winks and Daka



Brooks and Seriki worked an early chance but O’Hare could get the power on the header and diverted it wide. Fatawu header at the back post for Leicester came off Burrows for an early corner for the home team. Another corner caused problems but O’Hare could not quite find the cross and it then came off his hand but the home side’s defensive issues continued to be a feature of the game.



Leicester got back into the game as the ball was moved across and the cross and from Fatawu was dangerous and Cooper got nowhere near it, Seriki lost his man and MAVIDIDI nodded down and in. It was a really poor goal to concede after United had defended so well in recent games.



Leicester were now looking far better and dominating midfield as the game had turned around in terms of pressure and who was winning first and second balls. A half clearance saw Thomas’ shot was blocked. Leicester were now camped in United’s half and Vestergaard nearly hooked home and Cooper looked uncertain again. Foxes won two corners and were ramping up the pressure. The Blades needed to make changes but were unable to get reinforcements on before two appeals for a penalty came in close succession. Ayew’s shot went wide with the home side wanting a corner.



Finally, the changes came as Bamford, Hamer and Soumare replaced Cannon, Campbell and Riedewald. There was still 25 minutes to play and after being in such control, the Blades were now looking nervy. Seriki was having a harder second half and Mavididi got away from Seriki and his cross came over and Fatawu shot was straight at Cooper.



Soumare was cautioned for pulling back Brooks giving United a chance to try and slow the game down.

Mavididi and Fatawu continued to be the threats and the latter sent a dangerous cross over that Cooper pushed away but the time and space being given to the Leicester wingers was alarming. This half was all Leicester as United were sitting back. McCallum replaced Burrows. Cheap giveaways and free kicks meant the game was once again played in the same half, as it was the first half.



Ayew beat the offside trap but Seriki did well to come across and cover before the incoming McCallum took a whack which should have seen more action for Fatawu. United continued to toss away possession and so the ball kept coming back at them. The ball was pulled back and James fired a half volley over before Monga came on for De Cordova Reid as the game entered the final 10 minutes.



McGuiness replaced Brooks as United looked to hold what they had but it was the lack of control of midfield that was the issue. Peck finally had an effort for United but his long-range effort was blocked in a rare Blades attack.



It was not a surprise when the deficit was reduced even further. Bamford coughed up possession cheaply and JAMES hit a dipping shot that completely deceived Cooper and went high into the net. It was a fierce shot but a bizarre way it entered the goal as it did not seem to deflect off anyone. Leicester were absolutely dominating now and United could not get out. Leicester won another corner and continued to pile it on. Vestergaard went up for the final stages of the game as United continued to struggle to stem the tide.



The Blades players looked exhausted but Bamford won a free kick and then after Begovic’s error, Hamer should have done a lot better but he got too much elevation on it. There were four minutes of stoppage time but United were able to manage this out better than they had much of the previous 45 minutes and Bamford won a free kick and a corner that helped see the clock out. United just got off the line surviving a fierce Leicester rally after the game had looked won at the half. Still, regardless of the margin of victory, it had been a superb week for the Blades, completing three for three victories. For the home side, further questions will be asked of manager Cifuentes, despite the comeback that at least salvaged some pride, if not anything tangible points wise.



United – At half time, I am not even sure the most positive Blades fan could believe how well we had played as completely took the game to Leicester and were deservedly three goals to the good. We carried on from where we left off in the last two games and scored after only a minute before netting again. It was some appalling defending to be fair but credit to us for pressuring them and forcing the errors. Cannon took the goal well after good work from Brooks, Seriki and O’Hare and then Burows continued to cause problems with a variety on his set plays. Riedewald claimed the goal but it was all about O’Hare who has had 6 assists this season (4 in a week).



We were ruthless and looked dangerous with the two up front again giving us more bodies but pace and energy down the right also causing problems against the hapless Thomas. It genuinely looked like we might score every time we attacked. We also looked so dangerous from corners and they could not cope despite having some big lads at the back. Campbell and Cannon played on the shoulders and we were winning all the loose stuff in midfield with Riedewald and Peck swarming all over them. The crowd were furious but it had been high intensity play from United – on and off the ball with us looking quicker, hungrier, and more direct than a Leicester side that reminded me of the one we had seen from us earlier in the season.



We did not give them a minute on the ball but they did keep giving it away also and you could sense a team with high confidence against a team that had very little. We had more chances with Campbell in particular getting into space and finding gaps. The chance he had on half time would have absolutely killed it – he should have scored despite the great work to find the space.



They made three changes but we had a decent attack with O’Hare but after this we sat back and they upped the intensity. That does happen sometimes and maybe we tired. They had an extra man in the middle but the wingers played higher up the field and felt Brooks/O’Hare did not help the exposed full backs who had been attacking but now pushed back this half. The midfield were not winning the loose stuff and we sat back way too deep. The goal though was sloppy as we failed to stop the cross but despite Seriki not really doing anything, it is Cooper’s ball and he completely loses the flight. After this, they piled it on and we struggled to keep them at bay as the wingers had lots of space and time. We tossed away possession all half and even the changes did not make any difference. I felt like they were going to score (maybe my pessimism) any time (felt conversely that we would every attack first half!) every attack after they had not threatened us at all.



We could not get out and you worried if we could hold on as we were just hanging on and not trying to take the sting out by a few passes/or even just slowing the game down. The game was way too open and they had all the ball and lots more space. As I say, maybe we just got tired after we had played the two games a day after them and games are also about momentum. Sometimes teams can just step up but I felt we never got to grips with the second half and we did not manage the game very well at all – until stoppage time. So, for all the praise over the first half, you have to temper it with how we played second half. The same mental issues came back and you realised that we still struggle to finish games against the better sides (which SWFC and Pompey are). However, we still beat a side packed with talent (I sound like a Wednesday fan!) that cost probably a lot more than ours. They have not been in great form but I genuinely would have taken a draw before the game so to go on and win despite the drop off second half cannot be belittled. It has been a huge week.



In the end, we did just about enough to win – despite each team winning both halves and by some distance. Those Blades fans in the corner will have not seen much action all game! There are still worries about how we sit back and still have defensive issues. We clearly are looking like scoring so no idea why we sit back when we are looking so dangerous. Cooper had a really poor game and was at fault for both goals – still does not look convincing. The attacking play (till we stopped trying to attack 2nd half) was good and we have been far better with two up top and have threats in terms of goals from other areas now (three from two central midfielders – after we never seemed to score from this area the last few seasons).

The players have put a lot in this week, so a rest will be good. Stoke, despite the defeat today, will be a step up from any of our recent opponents and are a big, physical and quick side. We will have to be more consistent in our performances over the course of games and not sit back but we are at least looking more confident and competent in what we do. The way the players have turned things around led by Wilder and the coaching staff, you have to give them credit. They are moving in the right direction. Talk of the playoffs will probably be around but for me, we need to just keep the run going, keep moving away from the bottom. If we were mid table by Xmas, I will be delighted. We do have 3 home games in 4 games now up to Christmas – but some tougher games than we have had – outside of Norwich. If we can win can win say 2 or 3 of those and a draw, then that mid table position is distinctly possible.

 

[Deadbat]

Ratings:



Cooper 2/10 – The mark may seem harsh but he was at fault for both goals. First half had little to do really and not a save to make. Second half they put us under pressure but the goal is gifted to them – he either thought it was going out or he just got in a mess with Seriki there but no idea what he is doing? Does not even lift his hands. Dreadful keeping and gives them a route back. After this he makes one easy save but then palms another away indecisively and continues to look shaky. The second goal is hit well but does not hit anyone and he seem to just completely lose it. After this they at least did not force any more clear chances but he had a bit of a nightmare 2nd half. Went down with what looked like another injury (worry is if he is really fit looking at how he is moving?) but maybe it is a tactical plot. May be controversial but the way he has played this season and with Davies in reserve being an even worse option – we need to be looking for more competition in January– even if it just sees Cooper up his game.



Seriki 7/10 – First half he was superb and led the charge as he helped pin them back, got really far forward and his clever skill helped set up the first goal. He continued to be on the front foot and him and Brooks combined well. He showed some lovely touches and his pace was causing them problems. Defended well and won the battle versus Mavididi. Second half was more of a struggle but I thought the whole team were too deep and he also had no help from either Brooks or Hamer. The goal not sure what he is doing as he kind of gets in Cooper’s way a bit – it is a keeping error mind and needs to stay with his man. Had a dodgy spell after this but then he came out of it and made some good blocks, tackles and ended the game well. He made one great interception as the ball went over the top and he came back and covered.



Burrows 6/10 – His defending first half was solid and made one block and came across to deny another attack but also got forward well. His corners were excellent and a real variety – some far post, some near post and some pulled back. They struggled with the types of delivery. Put a few balls in and helped us keep the ball high up the field. Second half was much more of a struggle, as it was for them all. He was exposed, like Seriki and not sure O’Hare got back and we ended up struggling as O’Hare had to try and come inside as they had an extra man. The goal he is not tight enough but the pace of Fatawu showed his pace and ability as he went inside and outside. Came off as he started to tire.



Tanganga 6/10 – Solid enough in terms of winning headers and battles. We were not pressured at all and they never got behind us or put many balls into the box. The second half we were forced back but the defence was not helped by the midfield not getting hold of the ball, the strikers not being an outlet and we ended up so deep. I did want as a captain for him to get us out but hard when the momentum turns. They also had more pace, so it was a quandary. Liked the way he and Peck (who seems like the co-captain)



Mee 6/10 – As above. First half he was solid but they barely had an attack. Used the ball well and helped us keep it high up the field. Second half under pressure felt they caused us problems with balls into the box and over the top as Ayew’s pace forced us back. To be fair most of the pressure came down the sides or from cheap giveaways rather than big errors from the centre backs.



Riedewald 7/10 – Another impressive first half where he helped us completely control the play. Kept it well but was snappy and busy, as we won all the loose balls. We swarmed all over a slow and timid Leicester midfield. He has got better and better in recent weeks and we suddenly have started to win an area of the pitch, that we have not done much of the season. We pressed them but also played some positive and quick football getting the ball into the front two. He tired and we dropped off 2nd half as they upped the intensity and it was much more of a struggle and he was taken off – after 3 games in a week – for someone who has not played a great deal. Looks like he has done enough to get a longer team deal especially with Davies’ seemingly never going to be available for any time and Arblaster still going to be a bit off (New Year?).



Peck 8/10 – He has really stepped up in the last three games with three complete performances. I was one of those feeling he needed a rest as his form had dropped off, not helped by how he was being played earlier in the season but also the lack of a viable partner. However, Riedewald has come in and now is complimenting him and he has found a rich vein of form and looking much more like the player of last season. He helped set the tone with his busy and competitive work in the middle, winning tackles, and dropping on loose balls but also playing positive forward passes – this has been a big difference. He was the one leading the press and he was always involved. He played some nice through balls and has started to look forward all the time. The goal of course was superb. Despite the criticism of his lack of goals (deserved really for a central midfielder) it is odd. He has hit his man a lot or gets blocked and rarely works the keeper but has been unlucky with post/bar/offside etc and he does strike a ball well so should get like 5-8 goals a season really with his ability. This was shown on the goal – an absolute beauty. After the break felt he was not at the same high level and tired but got back to make a few blocks and thought he was one of few who helped us stem the tide in the final stages.



Brooks 5.5/10 – Started well and he was a threat down the side. Won the ball back for the first and him and Seriki combined well but he did not always find a cross or shot. He put one lovely ball out to O’Hare – who mis controlled it but he was energetic and did the defensive work too. After the break thought he was poor – not in terms of attacking stuff but he did not get back and Seriki needed him to just sit in. He should have been taken off long before he did. He is a frustrating player as has talent but his decision making and ball control can be inconsistent. Pleased he has had a run but expect Hamer may come in for him but then not sure what happens as O’Hare done ok down the left-hand side.



O’Hare 6.5/10 – Another energetic and lively performance – at least first half. One of those that helped us keep the ball high up and linked well with others. He kept the ball alive for the first and a great shot that really should have been his goal but of course goes down now as an assist- but did so well to keep it down and on target. He became a bit sloppy 2nd half and thought his give aways and inability to work as hard was symptomatic of our drop off. Put a lot in this week but he did fade today but still a good performance but as with most players went from a 7-8 mark to a 6 for the way we dropped off.



Cannon 6/10 – Did ok again to be fair. He is pitifully weak in challenges and loses the ball at times when you need a striker to keep it (this is where we really miss Moore) and bring others into play. He does run along the lines well though and his press also led to the first goal. He then got on the end of it and finished well. After this he and Campbell were threats with running, pressure and giving us outlets to find. I am not totally convinced by him as he lacks strength and intelligence at times and 2nd half lacked the intensity to press but he has had a positive week and finally resembles a reasonable Championship striker. Hot take or is it- I would still sell him January (especially now he has scored a few) which seems odd but we need a more muscular striker up top and if we got 3 or 4 million from say a Stoke or Preston – I would let him move on. However, credit for him for putting in better performances.



Campbell 6/10 – Odd one to assess? He looked a threat running in behind and on the shoulders and had a few chances and should have done better with a couple – the second he makes himself with great skill but has to get it on target and that finishes the game. However, he was always looking to get behind and they struggled to contain the front two at times. His lack of fitness/sustainability came to the fore 2nd half as to a man; we stopped running as much and they upped the intensity. Came off rightly.



Subs –



Bamford 5/10 – He has done well in his first two games but looked very rusty today with his touch poor and him unable to help us keep the ball – which is why he was put on. Twice he gave it away cheapy and the second moment led to the goal as they won it back and he looked for a free kick. He also then went for a shot near the end when he needed to run it to the corner but he did do that at the end and at least helped see it out.



Hamer 5.5/10 – Looked a bit sluggish and not sure he was the right option to come on but you would have hoped he may have helped us keep the ball but he gave it away cheaply too and missed a good chance at the end when with his ability he might have done better when the keeper gifted it him and he was off his line.



Soumare 5.5/10 – Think Wilder hoped he would help us stem the pressure, get his foot in, and give us some energy but he did not really have many touches and not sure we helped bottle up this area. He did win one tackle near the end and blocked another shot but not sure the subs made that much difference to help us improve after the turnaround.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Looked a bit slow at times and maybe struggled to adjust to the pace. A few times he was slow to react to things as were the whole side. Got booked for either a dive or kicking the ball out (not sure as TV panned to a replay)? No problems him being rested and he will still be the starter next week you sense.





Manager: Wilder 7/10 – First half more like a 9/10 – as we started brilliantly, pressed them, and got two goals. We were excellent with, and without the ball. Won midfield, the forwards were dangerous and we looked good in both open play with positive, quick breaks where we got men forward and set plays. It was a perfect away performance and Campbell easily could have made it 0-4 at the half. After the break the last two games, we have come out and put the foot down and got another goal but this time maybe psychologically being so clear, we thought we did not need to keep attacking but we sat back and we saw the side that struggles mentally and physically to finish games. I thought it we kept attacking, we would score more and had an early chance but then we sat further back. They did make changes and increased the intensity but we never really slowed it down. The game was way too open (maybe was first half but suited us as we were the ones looking so dangerous) and the wingers for them were causing problems. I felt tactically he got it spot on first half but needed to make a change second half. I would have took one of the front two off for Soumare and just solidified the midfield and told O’Hare and Brooks to just bank up. We could have defended more intelligently without just going so deep. The midfield were leaving gaps and the front two either were shattered or stopped working as hard. However, despite this the goals are bad mistakes but in the end we were a bit relieved to just get it over the line. The changes did not make any difference to the pressure coming at us at all. We probably needed some pace/power to wrestle control again – even if for 10 minutes but the introduction of even slower player but ones Hamer/Bamford you felt may keep the ball did not herald any improvement. Still, huge credit to him for the perfect week and for us to be out of the bottom three finally. He has got the players believing again and despite the 2nd half, it is another huge win and despite Leicester’s struggles, against a much better opponent.





Leicester – I saw Roy’s view from in the build up and was surprised how bad they were feeling about their team. I knew they had struggled recently after a good start and of course there is the issues swirling round about potential points deductions but I thought they still have a strong squad packed full of power and pace. I thought despite a hammering (albeit with ten men) in the week and them going in the wrong direction – they may be too strong for United but shows what I know! The Blades tore into them and exposed the weaknesses that their fans had described in the build-up. The back line were all over the place with Faes and Thomas all over the place. They tossed away possession time after time and defensively looked nervous and like they may concede at any point. 0-3 was a fair reflection of the domination and the fans were fuming with the manager and the players.



Second half the changes made a difference. The wingers were more direct and the extra man in midfield helped – Skipp was surprisingly far better than Winks. The lad Soumare (their Soumare not ours) made a big difference too. Ayew was a threat also. They looked a different team – maybe they had nothing to lose (why it was annoying we sat back as there was chances if we had kept the ball and actually tried to attack) but they did show some fight despite the ire of the supporters. In the end it was too much of an uphill deficit and in the end probably did not quite do enough to merit anything from the game despite a huge improvement.



It is hard to come down from the Premier League (we saw it under Slav) when everyone is expecting a team to just start winning but it’s not easy when you are losing every week the previous campaign. It is bizarre as they do have lots of talent and should be around the top 6 easily but it is has not clicked and the manager is under pressure and might not survive much longer. With a points deduction looking they may be looking over their shoulders but I think unless they get a huge 12 or 15 points deduction – they will be ok but promotion seems unlikely if they do get punished. Seems like they are a bit of a mess on and off the field and as others have found (which we are this season), if you do not return at the first or second attempts, it becomes hard and you have to move on some of your high earners.



Opponent Man of the Match – Mavididi and Fatawu were poor and we saw them off first half but hugely improved after the break. The latter was a real threat with his crossing and running so may just take the award but Skipp was very good, as he got on the ball and drove them forward and Soumare maybe the stand out of the subs – won the loose stuff and gave them a presence in there they had not had.



Opponent Weak link – The back line were awful first half and you could pick any of them. Luke Thomas showed what we all remembered from his spell at the Lane – a dreadful footballer and we caused him problems all game but the lad Faes was even worse making mistake after mistake. Winks also was really poor as Peck completely outshone him.



Referee / Officials – Anthony Backhouse. Thought it was an easy one to ref but as the game went on, I thought he started to become a bit of a homer really and a few things went for them. A couple of times we broke and he brought it back when he should have played on. A booking each – James for a late foul as we broke and the one for McCallum – which I was not sure of the offence – timewasting? Outside of this there was not really any bad tackles. A few appeals for penalties for them for handballs but they were a bit desperate. The lad on the third goal went down pathetically after Brooks brushed him. I would be fuming if I was their fans at him hitting the deck.

 

[Deadbat]

I think some may see the marks should be more 7s and 7.5.5 to 8's but the 2nd half peformance means I cannot do that. First half there would have been such marks but have to mark over a full game and not sure other than a few moments, many did much right 2nd half!

 

[Rodley]

Some outrageous marks there, but 5.5 for Brooks is egregiously negative.

 

[fifty shades of blade]

Some outrageous marks there, but 5.5 for Brooks is egregiously negative.

Esp as he gave Burrows a 6. Brooks a 6.5 to 7 for me.

 

[Bell4]

Some outrageous marks there, but 5.5 for Brooks is egregiously negative.

Brooks needs to up his game a bit - imo

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Brooks was a 4 for me, and that's a stretch.

 

[Frank the tank]

Ratings:



Cooper 2/10 – The mark may seem harsh but he was at fault for both goals. First half had little to do really and not a save to make. Second half they put us under pressure but the goal is gifted to them – he either thought it was going out or he just got in a mess with Seriki there but no idea what he is doing? Does not even lift his hands. Dreadful keeping and gives them a route back. After this he makes one easy save but then palms another away indecisively and continues to look shaky. The second goal is hit well but does not hit anyone and he seem to just completely lose it. After this they at least did not force any more clear chances but he had a bit of a nightmare 2nd half. Went down with what looked like another injury (worry is if he is really fit looking at how he is moving?) but maybe it is a tactical plot. May be controversial but the way he has played this season and with Davies in reserve being an even worse option – we need to be looking for more competition in January– even if it just sees Cooper up his game.



Seriki 7/10 – First half he was superb and led the charge as he helped pin them back, got really far forward and his clever skill helped set up the first goal. He continued to be on the front foot and him and Brooks combined well. He showed some lovely touches and his pace was causing them problems. Defended well and won the battle versus Mavididi. Second half was more of a struggle but I thought the whole team were too deep and he also had no help from either Brooks or Hamer. The goal not sure what he is doing as he kind of gets in Cooper’s way a bit – it is a keeping error mind and needs to stay with his man. Had a dodgy spell after this but then he came out of it and made some good blocks, tackles and ended the game well. He made one great interception as the ball went over the top and he came back and covered.



Burrows 6/10 – His defending first half was solid and made one block and came across to deny another attack but also got forward well. His corners were excellent and a real variety – some far post, some near post and some pulled back. They struggled with the types of delivery. Put a few balls in and helped us keep the ball high up the field. Second half was much more of a struggle, as it was for them all. He was exposed, like Seriki and not sure O’Hare got back and we ended up struggling as O’Hare had to try and come inside as they had an extra man. The goal he is not tight enough but the pace of Fatawu showed his pace and ability as he went inside and outside. Came off as he started to tire.



Tanganga 6/10 – Solid enough in terms of winning headers and battles. We were not pressured at all and they never got behind us or put many balls into the box. The second half we were forced back but the defence was not helped by the midfield not getting hold of the ball, the strikers not being an outlet and we ended up so deep. I did want as a captain for him to get us out but hard when the momentum turns. They also had more pace, so it was a quandary. Liked the way he and Peck (who seems like the co-captain)



Mee 6/10 – As above. First half he was solid but they barely had an attack. Used the ball well and helped us keep it high up the field. Second half under pressure felt they caused us problems with balls into the box and over the top as Ayew’s pace forced us back. To be fair most of the pressure came down the sides or from cheap giveaways rather than big errors from the centre backs.



Riedewald 7/10 – Another impressive first half where he helped us completely control the play. Kept it well but was snappy and busy, as we won all the loose balls. We swarmed all over a slow and timid Leicester midfield. He has got better and better in recent weeks and we suddenly have started to win an area of the pitch, that we have not done much of the season. We pressed them but also played some positive and quick football getting the ball into the front two. He tired and we dropped off 2nd half as they upped the intensity and it was much more of a struggle and he was taken off – after 3 games in a week – for someone who has not played a great deal. Looks like he has done enough to get a longer team deal especially with Davies’ seemingly never going to be available for any time and Arblaster still going to be a bit off (New Year?).



Peck 8/10 – He has really stepped up in the last three games with three complete performances. I was one of those feeling he needed a rest as his form had dropped off, not helped by how he was being played earlier in the season but also the lack of a viable partner. However, Riedewald has come in and now is complimenting him and he has found a rich vein of form and looking much more like the player of last season. He helped set the tone with his busy and competitive work in the middle, winning tackles, and dropping on loose balls but also playing positive forward passes – this has been a big difference. He was the one leading the press and he was always involved. He played some nice through balls and has started to look forward all the time. The goal of course was superb. Despite the criticism of his lack of goals (deserved really for a central midfielder) it is odd. He has hit his man a lot or gets blocked and rarely works the keeper but has been unlucky with post/bar/offside etc and he does strike a ball well so should get like 5-8 goals a season really with his ability. This was shown on the goal – an absolute beauty. After the break felt he was not at the same high level and tired but got back to make a few blocks and thought he was one of few who helped us stem the tide in the final stages.



Brooks 5.5/10 – Started well and he was a threat down the side. Won the ball back for the first and him and Seriki combined well but he did not always find a cross or shot. He put one lovely ball out to O’Hare – who mis controlled it but he was energetic and did the defensive work too. After the break thought he was poor – not in terms of attacking stuff but he did not get back and Seriki needed him to just sit in. He should have been taken off long before he did. He is a frustrating player as has talent but his decision making and ball control can be inconsistent. Pleased he has had a run but expect Hamer may come in for him but then not sure what happens as O’Hare done ok down the left-hand side.



O’Hare 6.5/10 – Another energetic and lively performance – at least first half. One of those that helped us keep the ball high up and linked well with others. He kept the ball alive for the first and a great shot that really should have been his goal but of course goes down now as an assist- but did so well to keep it down and on target. He became a bit sloppy 2nd half and thought his give aways and inability to work as hard was symptomatic of our drop off. Put a lot in this week but he did fade today but still a good performance but as with most players went from a 7-8 mark to a 6 for the way we dropped off.



Cannon 6/10 – Did ok again to be fair. He is pitifully weak in challenges and loses the ball at times when you need a striker to keep it (this is where we really miss Moore) and bring others into play. He does run along the lines well though and his press also led to the first goal. He then got on the end of it and finished well. After this he and Campbell were threats with running, pressure and giving us outlets to find. I am not totally convinced by him as he lacks strength and intelligence at times and 2nd half lacked the intensity to press but he has had a positive week and finally resembles a reasonable Championship striker. Hot take or is it- I would still sell him January (especially now he has scored a few) which seems odd but we need a more muscular striker up top and if we got 3 or 4 million from say a Stoke or Preston – I would let him move on. However, credit for him for putting in better performances.



Campbell 6/10 – Odd one to assess? He looked a threat running in behind and on the shoulders and had a few chances and should have done better with a couple – the second he makes himself with great skill but has to get it on target and that finishes the game. However, he was always looking to get behind and they struggled to contain the front two at times. His lack of fitness/sustainability came to the fore 2nd half as to a man; we stopped running as much and they upped the intensity. Came off rightly.



Subs –



Bamford 5/10 – He has done well in his first two games but looked very rusty today with his touch poor and him unable to help us keep the ball – which is why he was put on. Twice he gave it away cheapy and the second moment led to the goal as they won it back and he looked for a free kick. He also then went for a shot near the end when he needed to run it to the corner but he did do that at the end and at least helped see it out.



Hamer 5.5/10 – Looked a bit sluggish and not sure he was the right option to come on but you would have hoped he may have helped us keep the ball but he gave it away cheaply too and missed a good chance at the end when with his ability he might have done better when the keeper gifted it him and he was off his line.



Soumare 5.5/10 – Think Wilder hoped he would help us stem the pressure, get his foot in, and give us some energy but he did not really have many touches and not sure we helped bottle up this area. He did win one tackle near the end and blocked another shot but not sure the subs made that much difference to help us improve after the turnaround.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Looked a bit slow at times and maybe struggled to adjust to the pace. A few times he was slow to react to things as were the whole side. Got booked for either a dive or kicking the ball out (not sure as TV panned to a replay)? No problems him being rested and he will still be the starter next week you sense.





Manager: Wilder 7/10 – First half more like a 9/10 – as we started brilliantly, pressed them, and got two goals. We were excellent with, and without the ball. Won midfield, the forwards were dangerous and we looked good in both open play with positive, quick breaks where we got men forward and set plays. It was a perfect away performance and Campbell easily could have made it 0-4 at the half. After the break the last two games, we have come out and put the foot down and got another goal but this time maybe psychologically being so clear, we thought we did not need to keep attacking but we sat back and we saw the side that struggles mentally and physically to finish games. I thought it we kept attacking, we would score more and had an early chance but then we sat further back. They did make changes and increased the intensity but we never really slowed it down. The game was way too open (maybe was first half but suited us as we were the ones looking so dangerous) and the wingers for them were causing problems. I felt tactically he got it spot on first half but needed to make a change second half. I would have took one of the front two off for Soumare and just solidified the midfield and told O’Hare and Brooks to just bank up. We could have defended more intelligently without just going so deep. The midfield were leaving gaps and the front two either were shattered or stopped working as hard. However, despite this the goals are bad mistakes but in the end we were a bit relieved to just get it over the line. The changes did not make any difference to the pressure coming at us at all. We probably needed some pace/power to wrestle control again – even if for 10 minutes but the introduction of even slower player but ones Hamer/Bamford you felt may keep the ball did not herald any improvement. Still, huge credit to him for the perfect week and for us to be out of the bottom three finally. He has got the players believing again and despite the 2nd half, it is another huge win and despite Leicester’s struggles, against a much better opponent.





Leicester – I saw Roy’s view from in the build up and was surprised how bad they were feeling about their team. I knew they had struggled recently after a good start and of course there is the issues swirling round about potential points deductions but I thought they still have a strong squad packed full of power and pace. I thought despite a hammering (albeit with ten men) in the week and them going in the wrong direction – they may be too strong for United but shows what I know! The Blades tore into them and exposed the weaknesses that their fans had described in the build-up. The back line were all over the place with Faes and Thomas all over the place. They tossed away possession time after time and defensively looked nervous and like they may concede at any point. 0-3 was a fair reflection of the domination and the fans were fuming with the manager and the players.



Second half the changes made a difference. The wingers were more direct and the extra man in midfield helped – Skipp was surprisingly far better than Winks. The lad Soumare (their Soumare not ours) made a big difference too. Ayew was a threat also. They looked a different team – maybe they had nothing to lose (why it was annoying we sat back as there was chances if we had kept the ball and actually tried to attack) but they did show some fight despite the ire of the supporters. In the end it was too much of an uphill deficit and in the end probably did not quite do enough to merit anything from the game despite a huge improvement.



It is hard to come down from the Premier League (we saw it under Slav) when everyone is expecting a team to just start winning but it’s not easy when you are losing every week the previous campaign. It is bizarre as they do have lots of talent and should be around the top 6 easily but it is has not clicked and the manager is under pressure and might not survive much longer. With a points deduction looking they may be looking over their shoulders but I think unless they get a huge 12 or 15 points deduction – they will be ok but promotion seems unlikely if they do get punished. Seems like they are a bit of a mess on and off the field and as others have found (which we are this season), if you do not return at the first or second attempts, it becomes hard and you have to move on some of your high earners.



Opponent Man of the Match – Mavididi and Fatawu were poor and we saw them off first half but hugely improved after the break. The latter was a real threat with his crossing and running so may just take the award but Skipp was very good, as he got on the ball and drove them forward and Soumare maybe the stand out of the subs – won the loose stuff and gave them a presence in there they had not had.



Opponent Weak link – The back line were awful first half and you could pick any of them. Luke Thomas showed what we all remembered from his spell at the Lane – a dreadful footballer and we caused him problems all game but the lad Faes was even worse making mistake after mistake. Winks also was really poor as Peck completely outshone him.



Referee / Officials – Anthony Backhouse. Thought it was an easy one to ref but as the game went on, I thought he started to become a bit of a homer really and a few things went for them. A couple of times we broke and he brought it back when he should have played on. A booking each – James for a late foul as we broke and the one for McCallum – which I was not sure of the offence – timewasting? Outside of this there was not really any bad tackles. A few appeals for penalties for them for handballs but they were a bit desperate. The lad on the third goal went down pathetically after Brooks brushed him. I would be fuming if I was their fans at him hitting the deck.

McCallum was booked for complaining about being smashed into next year and then trod on by fatawu who got away with so many fouls I thought he might be the referees secret crush

 

[wardonia_blade]

I was expecting far more than 4 added minutes.

 

[Deadbat]

Brooks was decent first half but left Seriki completely exposed 2nd half

Rodley It's hard to give lots of 7s and 8s when we were so poor 2nd half. Literally sat back and coughed up possession easily all half. The first half was superb and my marks would have been higher than the Wednesday game but not sure anyone played well after the break. It was a completely different performance even if Leicester improved hugely. We went from being first to everything to first to nothing and barely got out of our half.

The first half was superb but have to mark on 90 mins. Or 94. I also was glad it was only 4 additional minutes. Expected 6 or 7.

 

[1973Blade]

I wouldn't be happy if we sold Cannon just as things seem to be coming into place. On another note, the biggest mystery was how the referee only added four minutes at the end, was expecting 8 minutes minimum. I was very happy to see the board go up!

 

[Sheffsteel]

I was expecting far more than 4 added minutes.

I was too…expected it must be at least 5 or 6….but feared the ref might say 8 or 9 minutes.

 

[JPBrods]

United had lost 8 straight games to the Foxes and not won at the King Power since Bryan Robson was the manager and Danny Webber netted in a 1-0 win in October 2007.

Always remember this as the definitive ‘Robson was about to be sacked and got a jammy result’ game

 

[Addison]

Agree with the scores we looked good for 53 minutes today but the game is 90 long. Very good first half but consistent with this season you knew if Leicester got one they would get a second. Yes they had an extra days rest but we failed to deal with the introduction of better players and limped over the line. Positives 9 points from 3 games. Negatives the goalkeeping situation. Cooper is clearly struggling. The fact he seems to be carrying an injury is affecting his confidence and decision making. He took Seriki out for their first goal. No idea what he was trying to do. It is becoming the single most important decision for the JTW. We cant complete the season with an incapacitated goalkeeper. If he needs an operation then he needs it on 2 January at the latest. Limping along hoping we can manage and filling him full of injections if that is true has shades of JOC's injury management. We are putting his career at risk. We can't afford to play the bomb scare back up option after SISU away so its looks like hobsons choice for the next 7 games.

We need a quality goalkeeper coming in the JTW. If that means we have to pay money for Tickle from Wigan then so be it. Cooper when fit still requires competition and that is not Davies. Its an area that has been sadly neglected the last few years. Getting a loan in should be avoided imo. It only puts off a decision for a later date. If Cooper is unable to complete the next 7 games then Forster on a short term contract has to be considered. Davies in goal again just doesnt bear thinking about.

As for funding a new goalkeeper there is a choice to be made for outgoings. I agree selling Cannon is an option but not at the 3-4 million you quote. As a bare minimum we should seek to recover our outlay. If Stoke and PNE are going for the play offs then we could potentially be selling to a rival although getting 6th place still feels a long way off.

Stoke will be a good measure of our recent improvement. Hopefully we will have a fit and competent goalkeeper between the posts for this game.

 

[Sheffsteel]

Agree with the scores we looked good for 53 minutes today but the game is 90 long. Very good first half but consistent with this season you knew if Leicester got one they would get a second. Yes they had an extra days rest but we failed to deal with the introduction of better players and limped over the line.

It was a worrying pattern last season and it’s still the same this season.

Why can’t Wilder work on this weakness?

We can have a 1st half where ever player is so comfortable on the ball playing some nice possession football.
However whenever we’re holding onto a lead in the 2nd half….we park the bus…but become desperate just booting it clear anywhere.
All of a sudden non of our players can pass to feet and we show fighting spirit but look technically poor.

Wilder needs to sort our tactical solutions regards what to do when the opposition have a spell of putting us under big pressure.
When we’ve totally lost control of a match…we need to take the sting out of the game by having controlled possession.

This was a big strength of our side when Howard Kendall was manager….with Gordan Cowans in side the side we were really good at slowing a game down and wrestling back possession having control of the game. It was a form of time wasting just by keeping the ball.

 

[GrayBlade]

Well that report is really going to give Cannon a well deserved boost.

 

[bakeblade]

Ratings:



Cooper 2/10 – The mark may seem harsh but he was at fault for both goals. First half had little to do really and not a save to make. Second half they put us under pressure but the goal is gifted to them – he either thought it was going out or he just got in a mess with Seriki there but no idea what he is doing? Does not even lift his hands. Dreadful keeping and gives them a route back. After this he makes one easy save but then palms another away indecisively and continues to look shaky. The second goal is hit well but does not hit anyone and he seem to just completely lose it. After this they at least did not force any more clear chances but he had a bit of a nightmare 2nd half. Went down with what looked like another injury (worry is if he is really fit looking at how he is moving?) but maybe it is a tactical plot. May be controversial but the way he has played this season and with Davies in reserve being an even worse option – we need to be looking for more competition in January– even if it just sees Cooper up his game.



Seriki 7/10 – First half he was superb and led the charge as he helped pin them back, got really far forward and his clever skill helped set up the first goal. He continued to be on the front foot and him and Brooks combined well. He showed some lovely touches and his pace was causing them problems. Defended well and won the battle versus Mavididi. Second half was more of a struggle but I thought the whole team were too deep and he also had no help from either Brooks or Hamer. The goal not sure what he is doing as he kind of gets in Cooper’s way a bit – it is a keeping error mind and needs to stay with his man. Had a dodgy spell after this but then he came out of it and made some good blocks, tackles and ended the game well. He made one great interception as the ball went over the top and he came back and covered.



Burrows 6/10 – His defending first half was solid and made one block and came across to deny another attack but also got forward well. His corners were excellent and a real variety – some far post, some near post and some pulled back. They struggled with the types of delivery. Put a few balls in and helped us keep the ball high up the field. Second half was much more of a struggle, as it was for them all. He was exposed, like Seriki and not sure O’Hare got back and we ended up struggling as O’Hare had to try and come inside as they had an extra man. The goal he is not tight enough but the pace of Fatawu showed his pace and ability as he went inside and outside. Came off as he started to tire.



Tanganga 6/10 – Solid enough in terms of winning headers and battles. We were not pressured at all and they never got behind us or put many balls into the box. The second half we were forced back but the defence was not helped by the midfield not getting hold of the ball, the strikers not being an outlet and we ended up so deep. I did want as a captain for him to get us out but hard when the momentum turns. They also had more pace, so it was a quandary. Liked the way he and Peck (who seems like the co-captain)



Mee 6/10 – As above. First half he was solid but they barely had an attack. Used the ball well and helped us keep it high up the field. Second half under pressure felt they caused us problems with balls into the box and over the top as Ayew’s pace forced us back. To be fair most of the pressure came down the sides or from cheap giveaways rather than big errors from the centre backs.



Riedewald 7/10 – Another impressive first half where he helped us completely control the play. Kept it well but was snappy and busy, as we won all the loose balls. We swarmed all over a slow and timid Leicester midfield. He has got better and better in recent weeks and we suddenly have started to win an area of the pitch, that we have not done much of the season. We pressed them but also played some positive and quick football getting the ball into the front two. He tired and we dropped off 2nd half as they upped the intensity and it was much more of a struggle and he was taken off – after 3 games in a week – for someone who has not played a great deal. Looks like he has done enough to get a longer team deal especially with Davies’ seemingly never going to be available for any time and Arblaster still going to be a bit off (New Year?).



Peck 8/10 – He has really stepped up in the last three games with three complete performances. I was one of those feeling he needed a rest as his form had dropped off, not helped by how he was being played earlier in the season but also the lack of a viable partner. However, Riedewald has come in and now is complimenting him and he has found a rich vein of form and looking much more like the player of last season. He helped set the tone with his busy and competitive work in the middle, winning tackles, and dropping on loose balls but also playing positive forward passes – this has been a big difference. He was the one leading the press and he was always involved. He played some nice through balls and has started to look forward all the time. The goal of course was superb. Despite the criticism of his lack of goals (deserved really for a central midfielder) it is odd. He has hit his man a lot or gets blocked and rarely works the keeper but has been unlucky with post/bar/offside etc and he does strike a ball well so should get like 5-8 goals a season really with his ability. This was shown on the goal – an absolute beauty. After the break felt he was not at the same high level and tired but got back to make a few blocks and thought he was one of few who helped us stem the tide in the final stages.



Brooks 5.5/10 – Started well and he was a threat down the side. Won the ball back for the first and him and Seriki combined well but he did not always find a cross or shot. He put one lovely ball out to O’Hare – who mis controlled it but he was energetic and did the defensive work too. After the break thought he was poor – not in terms of attacking stuff but he did not get back and Seriki needed him to just sit in. He should have been taken off long before he did. He is a frustrating player as has talent but his decision making and ball control can be inconsistent. Pleased he has had a run but expect Hamer may come in for him but then not sure what happens as O’Hare done ok down the left-hand side.



O’Hare 6.5/10 – Another energetic and lively performance – at least first half. One of those that helped us keep the ball high up and linked well with others. He kept the ball alive for the first and a great shot that really should have been his goal but of course goes down now as an assist- but did so well to keep it down and on target. He became a bit sloppy 2nd half and thought his give aways and inability to work as hard was symptomatic of our drop off. Put a lot in this week but he did fade today but still a good performance but as with most players went from a 7-8 mark to a 6 for the way we dropped off.



Cannon 6/10 – Did ok again to be fair. He is pitifully weak in challenges and loses the ball at times when you need a striker to keep it (this is where we really miss Moore) and bring others into play. He does run along the lines well though and his press also led to the first goal. He then got on the end of it and finished well. After this he and Campbell were threats with running, pressure and giving us outlets to find. I am not totally convinced by him as he lacks strength and intelligence at times and 2nd half lacked the intensity to press but he has had a positive week and finally resembles a reasonable Championship striker. Hot take or is it- I would still sell him January (especially now he has scored a few) which seems odd but we need a more muscular striker up top and if we got 3 or 4 million from say a Stoke or Preston – I would let him move on. However, credit for him for putting in better performances.



Campbell 6/10 – Odd one to assess? He looked a threat running in behind and on the shoulders and had a few chances and should have done better with a couple – the second he makes himself with great skill but has to get it on target and that finishes the game. However, he was always looking to get behind and they struggled to contain the front two at times. His lack of fitness/sustainability came to the fore 2nd half as to a man; we stopped running as much and they upped the intensity. Came off rightly.



Subs –



Bamford 5/10 – He has done well in his first two games but looked very rusty today with his touch poor and him unable to help us keep the ball – which is why he was put on. Twice he gave it away cheapy and the second moment led to the goal as they won it back and he looked for a free kick. He also then went for a shot near the end when he needed to run it to the corner but he did do that at the end and at least helped see it out.



Hamer 5.5/10 – Looked a bit sluggish and not sure he was the right option to come on but you would have hoped he may have helped us keep the ball but he gave it away cheaply too and missed a good chance at the end when with his ability he might have done better when the keeper gifted it him and he was off his line.



Soumare 5.5/10 – Think Wilder hoped he would help us stem the pressure, get his foot in, and give us some energy but he did not really have many touches and not sure we helped bottle up this area. He did win one tackle near the end and blocked another shot but not sure the subs made that much difference to help us improve after the turnaround.



McCallum 5.5/10 – Looked a bit slow at times and maybe struggled to adjust to the pace. A few times he was slow to react to things as were the whole side. Got booked for either a dive or kicking the ball out (not sure as TV panned to a replay)? No problems him being rested and he will still be the starter next week you sense.





Manager: Wilder 7/10 – First half more like a 9/10 – as we started brilliantly, pressed them, and got two goals. We were excellent with, and without the ball. Won midfield, the forwards were dangerous and we looked good in both open play with positive, quick breaks where we got men forward and set plays. It was a perfect away performance and Campbell easily could have made it 0-4 at the half. After the break the last two games, we have come out and put the foot down and got another goal but this time maybe psychologically being so clear, we thought we did not need to keep attacking but we sat back and we saw the side that struggles mentally and physically to finish games. I thought it we kept attacking, we would score more and had an early chance but then we sat further back. They did make changes and increased the intensity but we never really slowed it down. The game was way too open (maybe was first half but suited us as we were the ones looking so dangerous) and the wingers for them were causing problems. I felt tactically he got it spot on first half but needed to make a change second half. I would have took one of the front two off for Soumare and just solidified the midfield and told O’Hare and Brooks to just bank up. We could have defended more intelligently without just going so deep. The midfield were leaving gaps and the front two either were shattered or stopped working as hard. However, despite this the goals are bad mistakes but in the end we were a bit relieved to just get it over the line. The changes did not make any difference to the pressure coming at us at all. We probably needed some pace/power to wrestle control again – even if for 10 minutes but the introduction of even slower player but ones Hamer/Bamford you felt may keep the ball did not herald any improvement. Still, huge credit to him for the perfect week and for us to be out of the bottom three finally. He has got the players believing again and despite the 2nd half, it is another huge win and despite Leicester’s struggles, against a much better opponent.





Leicester – I saw Roy’s view from in the build up and was surprised how bad they were feeling about their team. I knew they had struggled recently after a good start and of course there is the issues swirling round about potential points deductions but I thought they still have a strong squad packed full of power and pace. I thought despite a hammering (albeit with ten men) in the week and them going in the wrong direction – they may be too strong for United but shows what I know! The Blades tore into them and exposed the weaknesses that their fans had described in the build-up. The back line were all over the place with Faes and Thomas all over the place. They tossed away possession time after time and defensively looked nervous and like they may concede at any point. 0-3 was a fair reflection of the domination and the fans were fuming with the manager and the players.



Second half the changes made a difference. The wingers were more direct and the extra man in midfield helped – Skipp was surprisingly far better than Winks. The lad Soumare (their Soumare not ours) made a big difference too. Ayew was a threat also. They looked a different team – maybe they had nothing to lose (why it was annoying we sat back as there was chances if we had kept the ball and actually tried to attack) but they did show some fight despite the ire of the supporters. In the end it was too much of an uphill deficit and in the end probably did not quite do enough to merit anything from the game despite a huge improvement.



It is hard to come down from the Premier League (we saw it under Slav) when everyone is expecting a team to just start winning but it’s not easy when you are losing every week the previous campaign. It is bizarre as they do have lots of talent and should be around the top 6 easily but it is has not clicked and the manager is under pressure and might not survive much longer. With a points deduction looking they may be looking over their shoulders but I think unless they get a huge 12 or 15 points deduction – they will be ok but promotion seems unlikely if they do get punished. Seems like they are a bit of a mess on and off the field and as others have found (which we are this season), if you do not return at the first or second attempts, it becomes hard and you have to move on some of your high earners.



Opponent Man of the Match – Mavididi and Fatawu were poor and we saw them off first half but hugely improved after the break. The latter was a real threat with his crossing and running so may just take the award but Skipp was very good, as he got on the ball and drove them forward and Soumare maybe the stand out of the subs – won the loose stuff and gave them a presence in there they had not had.



Opponent Weak link – The back line were awful first half and you could pick any of them. Luke Thomas showed what we all remembered from his spell at the Lane – a dreadful footballer and we caused him problems all game but the lad Faes was even worse making mistake after mistake. Winks also was really poor as Peck completely outshone him.



Referee / Officials – Anthony Backhouse. Thought it was an easy one to ref but as the game went on, I thought he started to become a bit of a homer really and a few things went for them. A couple of times we broke and he brought it back when he should have played on. A booking each – James for a late foul as we broke and the one for McCallum – which I was not sure of the offence – timewasting? Outside of this there was not really any bad tackles. A few appeals for penalties for them for handballs but they were a bit desperate. The lad on the third goal went down pathetically after Brooks brushed him. I would be fuming if I was their fans at him hitting the deck.

I'd be very reluctant to break up the Seriki/Brooks partnership.
They've been a big part of our improvement the last 4 games, even when they came on against Coventry with 15 to go they looked decent.

 

[Rufus Smalls]

McCallum was booked for complaining about being smashed into next year and then trod on by fatawu who got away with so many fouls I thought he might be the referees secret crush

Agreed, studs down his lower back and not even spotted by the lino about 5 yards away.

 

[BobbyDavison'sDebut]

I thought that Seriki has to take some blame for their first goal. He left Mavididi unnecessarily so he was unmarked at the back post

 

[Fruitbat]

Thanks as ever Deadbat.
I’d probably mark Wilder down a bit more, because of his failure to manage the second half better. You expect the home team to come ripping into you at 3-0 down, so you switch shape and tactics accordingly. In the end, I think we might have been a little fortunate to hang on for the win. Again, for me, the subs were a little baffling, though tbf, apart from McGuinness, there wasn’t really many options for shoring up the defence. Still, bringing on Soumare and a partially fit Hamer looked strange under the circumstances.
All of this said…
I didn’t think Wilder should’ve been fired. I didn’t think Wilder should’ve been brought back. But there’s no doubt that he’s hammering this squad into shape.

 

[Sheffsteel]

I'd be very reluctant to break up the Seriki/Brooks partnership.
They've been a big part of our improvement the last 4 games, even when they came on against Coventry with 15 to go they looked decent.

Agree……it’s often a bit tricky summing up Sereki and Brooks performance in a match and give them a fair score
Because both are consistently inconsistent inside the same match.

One or both will be playing poorly….then from no where go on a great run and create a great chance or in Brooks case, score a class goal.
Then you have matches where they are both playing well then, especially Sereki will be caught totally out of position and be the reason we concede a goal.
Brooks can be playing well in the 1st half then totally dissapear the 2nd half. Brooks regularly does good stuff followed by errors all intertwined.

Currently both have great sub on/ sub off future at Sheff Utd…..which these days is no bad thing due to substitutions being such a big part of the game.

A bit like when we had the talented Rak-Sakyi both Sereki and Brooks clearly have talent and both have high potential.
So at the moment you have to take the rough with the smooth….. and I would play both together too.

At least we know when Sereki and Brooks are in the mood….they are a nightmare for the opposition and give us a different attacking dimension.

 

[Tanny1889]

Brooks rating is generous, he’s horrendous and he’s who comes out for Hamer

 

[Revolution]

I’m pleased for the team and for us, but unfortunately I had an appointment I could not get out of so when I turned on the television it was the 53rd minute and literally the first thing I saw was Leicester’s first goal. I watched a 40 minute 2-0 defeat in which we were outclassed. Oh well.

I am sad I missed Faes’ performance. He is a wretched player.

I thought Bamford was fouled before the 2nd goal. The ref was very lenient with them.

What a great week!

 

[Antonb]

A brilliant week for our team. A big well done for that. Only negative is Wilder doesn't seem to learn from his mistakes. 2nd half at Leicester was just like Preston away and the play off final. He even brushed over it during the interview after. Just making out it was all down to Leicester having a go!

 

[1973Blade]

It isn't just United who struggle to hold on when winning. In six Championship games yesterday the team who scored first went on to lose. Leicester have some decent players and at some point it was likely we would be on the back foot, although there were times in the second half when we didn't manage it well.

 

[coaxingstar71]

Thank for the report Deadbat . Still the best feature of the forum. I hope you never decide to retire!

Totally agree on the comments on the goalkeeping situation. The second goal reminded me of Grbic. The ball was hit from way out, it didn't seem to get a deflection or swerve that much but Cooper was flat footed and nowhere near it. I can only imagine he didn't expect a shot from there but there's no excuse really.

I'm also not convinced by Cannon despite some better performances, arguably he couldn't have got worse, but to me he's afraid of physical contact which is why he can't hold the ball up when it's played to his feet.