United 3 Bristol City 0 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

Sorry for the delay - late night and work got in the way....one more of these to go and then my season review to follow after...

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The Blades secured another trip to Wembley after a resounding playoff victory over two legs against Bristol City. After a 3-0 victory at Ashton Gate last week, United already had more than one foot in the final but had to finish the job and did so in some style, as they replicated the same score line at a jubilant Bramall Lane. Goals from Kieffer Moore, Gus Hamer and Callum O’Hare ensure it was as comfortable a night as it could possibly be as the Blades coasted into the final proving far too good for the side they finished 22 points ahead of. Attentions will now turn to the final, a week on Saturday, as United aim to end a 100 year wait for a win at the national stadium and in doing so breaking a long play off hoodoo that has now reached ten attempts.

Wilder did make changes to his line up, bringing in Andre Brooks and Tom Cannon for Rhian Brewster and Tyrese Campbell – with Jesurun Rak Sayki also back on the bench for Jamie Shackleton. Bristol City made changes also with George Earthy, Scott Twine and Cameron Pring in from the start for Hirakawa, Mehmeti and the suspended Rob Dickie.

The atmosphere was crackling as kick off approaches with a TIFO show and flags held aloft as the teams emerged. United began cautiously and a few sloppy touches ensued and City had a lot of the early ball. Twine had an early opportunity but pulled his effort wide and then Wells was nearly in as both Peck and Ahmedhodzic were guilty of errant passes. United were struggling to keep the ball but whilst City had a lot of possession, it was mostly non-threatening. Knight did have a shot fielded by Cooper before Cannon had the first United effort, but it was over after the Blades found their first real attacking move of note.

City still were enjoying the better of the early running and had a series of corners but United were content to soak up this pressure and as the time moved on, the home side started to grow into the contest. Hamer robbed his man and his ball just evaded Cannon and Brooks before Burrows got down the left and his cross was put behind. From the resulting corner, United took the lead. O’Leary and Bristol City’s struggles with crosses had been a theme in the first game and it was put into sharp focus again on the opener. Burrows sent it over and MOORE jumped highest to divert his header in with Wells unable to keep it out. The roar from the crowd showed how important the goal was, in effectively settling the tie – even before half time – albeit of the second game.

The second half saw City try and push men forward and Brooks trip gave an opportunity for free kick expert Twine. He got the ball on target, but it was pushed over by Cooper – with the shot being quite central despite being hit with power. The Blades won another corner on 52 minutes and were able to work an excellent second goal. Burrows took it and Brooks executed a dummy rather than take the shot and HAMER came onto it and hit the shot which took a big deflection off McCrorie and span up and into the far corner at the Kop end. The celebrations signalled that if it wasn’t already – it was job done now.

Cannon then nearly took advantage of a slip from Pring, but his shot was deflected wide as the away side’s heads started to drop and the Blades now were in confident mood.

McGuane, Mehmeti and Bell came on for Pring, Bird and Twine for the visitors and soon after United made their first changes with Moore, Brooks and Cannon replaced by Campbell, Brewster and O’Hare and not long after Hamer got a good ovation as Rak Sayki came on. The game ticked into the final 20 minutes, and it was now about whether United could add to a rampant second half performance where the subs were now combining and moving a tired City side about. Tanner did hit a powerful long ranger that Cooper had to help over as City’s fans continued to admirably support their side despite their season slipping away.

Peck nearly got his long overdue goal, but his effort fizzed over the bar and Campbell and O’Hare nearly linked up. Burrows was now well forward also and United had several men over as City were now looking for the full-time whistle. Cornick came on for Wells and Davies for Souza on 80 minutes.

The final touches were put to a comprehensive victory for the Blades as a superb team goal yielded the third goal on 83 minutes. Brewster played Campbell in and his cross was dummied b Burrows, leading to O’HARE having the freedom of the penalty area and he duly smashed home to send the Kop raptures.

After this it was party time as United moved the ball around with one touch exhibition stuff for the final moments and Campbell nearly touched in a fourth. Referee Bankes did not even play any stoppage time with the result and tie sealed a long time ago and that was left was both sets of supporters to salute their sides. Bristol City fans remained incredibly supportive as they mostly remained in their seats to salute a good season with improvements made; if not quite the outcome they had hoped over the contests. For the Blades supporters, it was a hearty round of applause with reminders of the connection they had to former hero George Baldock, as the players moved around the stadium to reciprocate their support.

The celebrations were certainly loud and clear but felt also rather low key suggesting that the fans/players know there is still one more big hurdle to cross – for United to achieve their ultimate goal. A victory at Wembley, and promotion will see any demons of the end of season disappointment forgotten and bury many disappointing days in United’s recent history in such finals. Wilder will hope the professional and assured displays can be carried on for one final game and end the season in glory.

 

[Deadbat]

United – As good a performance over two legs as we could have dreamed of. To win 6-0 it remarkable considering how we have ground out wins most of the season – and also our playoff past which has led to nervy/close games with extra time and penalties a feature in many of these. I detailed how perfect the game plan was on Thursday and tonight was kind of the same – even though I was frustrated at the start as though whilst we let them have the ball and that was ok -we were passive. We were sloppy on the ball and turned it over. They had too many easy out balls, as Wilder alluded to and it felt like we were happy for them to have it but also in our final third too much and a few chances were created – with Twine nearly getting in twice. I was concerned they might nick one but that never happened and gradually we started to move it better, got Hamer into the game and Souza started to dominate midfield. Slowly we started to create and then of course the set plays saw the goal.

After this it was easy – as we had to simply manage time and subs but was nice to see two further goals too. The subs have been great in both ties and shows we have strength in depth and can stretch teams. In the end, I thought that we looked too strong, skilled and savvy for a neat footballing side that had a lot of the ball but were a soft touch. We ended up just steamrollering them in the end and not even sure 6-0 flattered us. Whilst big moments went for us – it was a red card that was their own fault, and the deflection also was poor – had time to do more with that and his body position was all wrong. So, I don’t buy it was down to misfortune. We were just far better than them over both games and had better strikers on the pitch and from the bench. Some of the football at the end – whilst the game was done – was a joy to watch and gives me confidence for the final it it’s much tighter – as I expect.

So, we now move onto the final and it does feel different. I know we have said this before but the way we went through without must worry and it seems more like we are on a process and have another final leg to complete. In the past, it has always been around us just getting through or being happy to get there. This time, I sense there is a real determination to prove we are the third best team and finish the job. I just hope that this time it is our time, and we can finally win at that damn place!

We have to ensure we get our rest and fully prepare and await who we play – I sense it will be Sunderland – they will offer far more of a threat and gave us two good games in the league. Their forwards have pace, and they have some athleticism around the park but lack experience I feel too and that is where we have the edge – on the pitch and with the manager. They may have more support but we will go in as favourites and need to execute the game plan and not freeze – like we have in many of those big occasions. The first goal will be huge. We get it and I think we do it. If we concede, the ‘here we go’ again mantra will be felt from the fans unfortunately. I am mixed in how I feel. Half of me thinks, we will never win at Wembley and my heart says it will be another let down/heartache. The other half of me and my logical brain says we are a better side than whoever we face and have found form again and can/should win if we do our jobs and our big players turn up. Wilder’s management over the playoffs and the last few games makes me feel confident again at least.

Ultimately it is one game though and it is down to who turns up on the day. Please, let it be us for once. Going up the top flight again fills me with dread but I am not even thinking about that – the money is huge of course – but it is more about having a day of celebration and finally winning at Wembley.


Ratings:

Cooper 7.5/10 – Mark may seem high, and he did not have loads to do but made 2 or 3 good saves and everything he did, he did well. Handled the ball well, calm when needed and as I say when he had to – he made the saves. Twine first half, free kick second half and the long-range shot.

Choudhury 7.5/10 – Been really impressed with him over the two games and indeed most of the time he has played in whichever position. He rarely gets beat and is quite quick but strong and calm. He has brought us real assurance in that position.

Burrows 7.5/10 – Been excellent and regained his excellent form – been able to get up and down, contribute in terms of assist/goals and been full of energy. His corners led to two goals and then a dummy for a third – so three assists of kind. He has put some lovely balls in and linked well with others. Had an impact with Posh at Wembley before so hope for the same!

Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – Started with a panicky clearance but settled down and was fine after that. Not really troubled and a relatively easy night but helped but lack of physicality and pace from the Bristol City attack who were toothless over two games.

Robinson 7/10 – As above. Been fine in both legs. I still worry about the pace of Sunderland or Coventry’s forwards but we will see now if they can limit the mistakes – both were poor at the Stadium of Light and made errors so will want to ensure they come back with a big game – if it is Sunderland. Has been ok though and expect both to start the final now.

Peck 6/10 – Think he has been a bit quieter in games recently than the excellent form he had shown before but he was able to improve as the game went on and had another effort at goal (off target again but closer! Imagine if he scores at Wembley). He was a bit careless on the ball first half and not the same energy but got better as the tie went on. Davies is there if we need something different in the final.

Hamer 6.5/10 - Bit of an odd one as not sure he has been great in either game but had moments and of course set up a goal and now scored one too. He has shown flashes and at times looked up for it but then was sloppy with it and his passing was not always accurate. I think he needs to do more in games as at times we do not see him but then he does something where you see his quality. Need a Boro/Cov type performance from in the final where he needs to be involved throughout and having the big moments -sense he still could be out matchwinner at Wembley.

Souza 8/10 – Felt he has been a bit off it in terms of not having the same level of domination/physical impact on midfields and patrolling things. Seemed to lack the same aggression and running qualities we have shown before and was all over the place most of the game – winning tackles/making blocks and using the ball well. He completely dominated midfield and was back to his best – easily the man of the match for me. Hoping he carries this on for the final.

Brooks 6/10 – He was ok but not sure there was much end product. He did get on the ball a few times but still too passive I thought and do feel he is better as an impact sub. Had one run but then sort of run out of ideas and not sure there is much end product from his weaving runs but I like it when he does try and attack defenders. He was of course involved in the dummy that set up the second which was a lovely piece of skill – we seem to be coming the dummy team (as had three in two games that have led to goals each time!)

Cannon 6/10 – Thought first half he was quite poor and seemed to get brushed off too easily and not close enough to Moore. It did not stick and he did not press. Had one shot off target but thought we did not look anywhere near as threatening without Campbell. Credit to him as he did improve second half and was chasing/harrying and made some good interceptions. He had a few chances with one shot blocked and then another cross to Moore – where he took too long. There were some signs of progress in how he did 2nd half but do not expect him to start at Wembley.

Moore 7.5/10 – 7.5 might seem hight but he was a real handful all game and thought even outside the goal, his presence caused problems for the opposition. He won his headers, he held it up and even though his touch was not always secure, he did have a lot of the ball. Tried a finish from halfway which was ambitious but got his goal. Come back into the side and some form and will start the final – with Campbell you assume?


Subs:

O’Hare 7.5/10 – Another really impactful performance as he got on the ball, linked with others and was a nuisance on and off the ball. Scored an excellent goal and looked a real livewire. It might be go with the same team as started away at Bristol City due to the shape and how it has helped having two up top but he is a real game changer off the bench with his energy.

Campbell 6.5/10 -Thought he did well as he put himself about, made sure they had no out ball and also ran the channels. Nearly converted one which he maybe should have done better with from a cross but then set up the third goal. He is much more physical than Campbell and defenders do not have an easy time. Also links well with others with his intelligent interplay. Him, O’Hare, Brewster and Burrows combined superbly in the final stages and we could have had more.

Brewster 6.5/10 – Once again came on and was busy and got involved in things. He has been able to show a real footballing brain playing deeper, which I did not think he had – so fair play to him for showing a different asset.

Rak Sayki 6/10 – Got 20 minutes and had one run and cross but did not see too much of it as the game was sort of petering out but will be someone we may need at some stage of the final and good he is back fit.

Davies – Got the final 10 minutes and was neat and tidy but I was worried when he got a whack. He seemed ok though. Important player to have around for the final with his experience and calming football brain.

Manager Wilder 8/10 – Big test after Bristol tactically and in terms of set up with personnel were better than us in both league games. That was not the case tonight or Thursday as we managed it superbly. We looked more dangerous throughout the ties and also, we defended better. We played more direct at times but did mix it up with some good football second half too. It shows also it is not always about possession but possession that matters. The subs have worked like a dream. Will be more confident now after how things came off in terms of the plan. Great to see us looking a threat from set plays too with credit to Knill, Lester and Micky Collins (as he alluded to). He will want to be the manager who ends this long drought at Wembley and further cement his reputation as one of our best ever managers. I have been frustrated with him at times and his comments/how he acted after the poor run, I think he may reflect on but has bounced back and now needs one more big game out of his players.



Bristol City – I was surprised how out matched they were over the two games. They had been very good against us in the league, but they were well beaten in every aspect over the tie. Maybe things went against them but many of them were of their own doing. The injuries and lack of squad depth is a factor but suspensions and poor defending are down to them. They never got to grips with our set plays and physicality and it seemed like we may score every time we put the keeper/defence under pressure. They had a lot of ball and for the first 20 (as they did for a spell first half at Bristol) moved it around nicely but it was not impactful at all. I thought that they moved it around but were restricted to long rangers in both games. They could not cope with our movement after the game went away and in the end, the heads dropped and it was damage limitation. They have some decent young players but lack big time players and experience – particularly at the top of the field. I think they will be around the middle to pushing for playoff next year – but might be a stronger league overall with the teams coming down/up. Manning, despite his odd ref rant in the first leg, seems a decent guy and an emerging coach. He will be pleased with the progress – even if the outcome was disappointing once they made the playoffs.

Player of the Match – Hard to pinpoint one player really – Twine had a few moments – like Mehmeti in the first leg. Overall though they did not have any real stand out performances and players who had done well in the regular season did not quite step up against better quality.


Weak link – Keeper was poor over both games and really struggled tonight I felt and we exploited this. I also thought the back line never got to grips with our movement and size. Expected more from the midfield but Knight was overrun by Souza in the end.



Referee – Peter Bankes. Reffed it really well. Only one booking – that is rare – for the foul on Davies. I was surprised a Bristol City player had not a tackle in like that before – especially with the oh lays creeping in but they were maybe not physical enough in this game. Not sure their manager can complain at all as they were no big taking points. Saw some say Cannon made contact on the keeper – but he has to be stronger than that. Bankes had to make decisions for the assistant on the South Stand side who seemed to be forget he was there. Be interesting to see who the ref is at Wembley of course – we need a strong ref who lets teams play and does not make it about him.


Crowd/fans – Really good despite it not being full. I think if the upper tier had been open earlier and better advertised and also we had not been left with single seats, we may have had more there. The price was high too – whether that was United’s fault or not. However, I also think that if fans wanted to be there they would get there, and I was still a bit disappointed we did not sell out. The atmosphere was really good though despite this and the crowd got behind the side. Credit to the Bristol City fans who stayed and sang and kept with their side.


We also had the spine-tingling moment when the loud and quick Baldock chant serenated around the whole ground. This was fantastic, as was the display of the Greek flag with his name on it, at the end. I hope we can fill our allocation at Wembley and it is a good sign they have made it more simplistic to buy. Means people can wait till day 3 and buy all together if they wish also. I know some people are critical of the 200 points restrictions but that is essentially a few games isn’t it? Surely anyone who goes to Wembley will have been to a game or two before? I think the cost again is a lot and that mixed with transport issues/late kick off time and previous disappointment means we will do well to shift them all and may be out numbered by a few thousand (especially if Sunderland) but not sure what we can do to sell them and feel if fans want to go – they can go so criticism of the club again I struggle with a bit – I agree the last time they did not make a great job for the Man City game. Hopefully, we have close to a full allocation and a day we have all dreamed of for a long time.

 

[Putney Blade]

Good summary. Hamer should be playing more central. Where he can use his close control/feet and shooting ability to better effect. Playing-out wide (for me) doesn't work as well. Same for BDD. He is a centre forward not a winger.

 

[dexter101]

As always, love the right up.

I feel for Cannon. Things are just not falling right for him at the moment. There is a decent player there but you could see how disappointed he was getting. Even in the warm up, I think 2 shots ended up in the Kop!

I think Campbell starts next week, but I would love it for him to come off the bench and score.

 

[Tarqs]

Choudhury at right back has been superb. Telescopic legs seem to block everything. Also very good in the air. I'd be mor einterested in signing him for RB than for Midfield for next season.

 

[Houston_Blade]

Do you log your player ratings? Be interesting to see the averages over the season for the players.

 

[Rusty view]

Glad you noted no injury time. Thought it was weird. Surely must have got nod from BC players.

Or maybe he got bored of the "stay of the pitch" messages.

 

[Greystones Blade]

Second half - 10 subs = 5 mins and 2 goals = 2 mins. Plus any injury added time. Bit surprised the ref didn’t allow a few minutes. Perhaps he knew something about Brizzle’s travel plans…

 

[Rodley]

Going to have start adding +2 marks per player in the Deadbat handicap, you’re getting more stingy by the day!

 

[I should coco]

Deadbat , someone jacked your login and edited your post. The naught scoundrel has added 2 onto all your marks!

 

[Gin&Juice]

Agreed with all. Was looking forward to reading this today. Cheers once again!

 

[Deadly_D'Jaffo]

Burrows. An excellent contribution with three assists (ish) and a clean sheet.

7.5 out of 10

I like these match reports but they're beginning to feel like a quest to give out the lowest possible rating. If a LB having a hand in 3 goals + Clean Sheet gets 7.5 I'd love to know what he'd have to do to get 9?
Brooks at 6/10 is also feels harsh, I was very impressed by his work defensively and attacking.

Cooper 7/10
Choudhury 7/10
Anel 8/10
Robinson 7/10
Burrows 9/10
Peck 6/10
Souza 8/10
Brooks 7/10
Hamer 7/10
Moore 8/10
Cannon 6/10

 

[Deadbat]

Burrows. An excellent contribution with three assists (ish) and a clean sheet.

7.5 out of 10

I like these match reports but they're beginning to feel like a quest to give out the lowest possible rating. If a LB having a hand in 3 goals + Clean Sheet gets 7.5 I'd love to know what he'd have to do to get 9?
Brooks at 6/10 is also feels harsh, I was very impressed by his work defensively and attacking.

Cooper 7/10
Choudhury 7/10
Anel 8/10
Robinson 7/10
Burrows 9/10
Peck 6/10
Souza 8/10
Brooks 7/10
Hamer 7/10
Moore 8/10
Cannon 6/10

My marks were higher than these on the whole?

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Sheffield United 3-0 Bristol City​

Riley Roberts with the final player ratings from Bramall Lane this season, as the Blades book themselves a date at Wembley.​

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Riley Roberts:​

Michael Cooper – 7​

Dealt with some venomous efforts and slight deflections to keep no fewer than 6 attempts on target out of his goal. An impressive display.

Hamza Choudhury – 6​

Some sloppy passes in the first half saw him give away possession cheaply in our own half, but one thing that was unfaultable throughout was his tackling as he made some excellent sliding challenges to regain possession.

Anel Ahmedhodzic – 7​

Saw a lot less action than you’d expect with Bristol City needing goals but looked assured all night and never really put a foot wrong.

Jack Robinson – 7​

Almost the exact same story for Robbo, who was never in danger and did his job comfortably.

Harrison Burrows – 8​

Very nearly got his third goal against Bristol City this season when an early right-footed effort deflected wide, but had to settle for two assists instead, both from corners, before an excellent dummy for the 3rd goal. Played a direct part in 4/6 goals in the tie, 5/6 if you count the dummy.

Andre Brooks – 5​

Didn’t quite have the desired effect in attack but was well placed to stop Bristol city progressing down the wing a few times with some nice tackles. Wouldn’t be opposed to seeing him in the XI at Wembley, though I think it’s unlikely.

Sydie Peck – 4​

Went goal hunting again but come up unsuccessful once more, though he now has the opportunity to do the funniest thing. Didn’t have stellar performance here though as he was often beaten in 50/50 challenges with a Bristol City breakaway coming as a result on one occasion.

Vini Souza – 8​

Made a couple of big challenges early, and that set the tone for a top performance where he seemed back at his best, hunting down opposition midfielders and often coming away with the ball.

Gustavo Hamer – 6​

Seemingly enjoyed having a bit of freedom with the scoreline already at 3-0 as he attempted some rather ambitious passes early on which didn’t work out, but improved as the game went on, scoring with a deflected effort from that delightful corner routine.

Kieffer Moore – 7​

Once again he did the big man job perfectly, winning aerial battles and flicking the ball on, though these flick-ons were rarely met by a teammate. Scored the opener with a big header and can have very few complaints about his performance.

Tom Cannon - 4​

Squandered a couple of opportunities, including one where he nicked it off the centre-half and still somehow didn’t manage to get anything more than a blocked shot. Seems to be desperately low on confidence.

Average rating – 6.27​

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[Tony_Kaufman]

I'd change the mark for O'Hare from 7.5 to 8. He was superb. As for Brooks, I'd knock him down a mark. He was so negative on the ball refusing to take on and beat players, refusing to cross the ball in good position, predictable safety first back passes from good positions. He was also barely noticeable in the first half and left Choudhury exposed for the first 20 minutes.