United 3 Oxford 0 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

It’s seven straight wins at home and seven consecutive clean sheets for the Blades as they easily dispatched Oxford at the Lane on Tuesday evening. Goals from Callum O’Hare, his first for the Blades, another for Tyrese Campbell and a third from Jesrun Rak Sakyi made it a comfortable evening for Chris Wilder’s men who temporarily go to the top of the table. Michael Cooper, who made a smart save late on, has incredibly still not conceded a single goal at Bramall Lane so far! The Blades were able to get the three points, rotate the squad and in the end could have won by an even bigger margin.



The starting line up saw Seriki and McCallum in for Gilchrist and Burrows with Robinson replacing the suspended Ahmedhozic, in a much-changed defence. Oxford were hit for six at the weekend and were looking to restore their fragile confidence after a recent poor run of results.



The Blades looked to move the ball around and were moving it around crisply but both O’Hare and Campbell’s touches were heavy on a skiddy surface. The visitors tried to respond but Souza snuffed out any danger and set United on the attack. The home side won a throw in an opted to utilise Robinson. His throw was won by Souttar and dropped for Campbell at the back post. The striker drilled it across and O’HARE managed to divert it into the net, to register his first goal for the club.



Oxford managed to respond and at least had spell on the ball but were unable to create anything of note and United continued to move the ball around neatly with O’Hare and Hamer linking well. Seriki was also proving an excellent outlet on the right. The second goal came on 26 minutes as Souza and Peck moved it around with one touch football but it was Hamer who picked out the pass to feed CAMPBELL and the strikers first touch was excellent, as he beat the offside trap, advanced towards goal and cooly rounded the keeper to slot into the empty net.



United now were firmly in the mood and more one touch play with flicks and tricks aplenty saw Hamer show his class. The midfielder twice could have scored before the break. Once after neat build up saw the ball played across and his finish across the keeper saw Cumming divert it round the post. Soon after from a clever Peck corner, floated to the far post, the keeper made an even better save to deny Hamer’s powerful driven half volley.



The Blades were now just moved the ball around and Oxford looked like they wanted half time, as Campbell and O’Hare both nearly got in after good work from Rak Sakyi and also Seriki with some showboating aplenty.



The second half saw it continue to be one way traffic with Seriki’s confidence growing as he was involved in a series of attacks with his pace and dribbling, a real feature. O’Hare had one found Rak Sakyi but the winger smashed his shot wide when he should have scored. However, soon after he did have his goal. Lovely build up again with Souza’s back heel playing in Hamer and the midfielder’s pass dissected the backline straight down the middle and RAK SAKYI was onside and finished this one with aplomb giving Cumming the eyes and sending it into the far corner.



The game was effectively done and it was now just a case of whether United could add to their margin. They should have done with Campbell brushing off his man and deciding to go for goal on the angle and the keeper managed to divert it away. Soon after Seriki’s powerful shot pushed away and then Hamer denied again by the keeper.



One and Brooks replaced Campell and Rak Sakyi as United had one eye on Friday. Hamer continued to show his ability on the ball but Seriki also continued to show his impressive energy levels giving Leigh a torrid time down the United right hand side. Two more changes came with Shackleton and Norrington Davies coming on for Hamer and Peck. Oxford made a series of changes and one of the substitutes, Phillips had a shot pushed over with Cooper’s first real action. The keeper had to make an even better save to deny another sub, El Mizouni as the ball seemed destined for the top corner.



Seriki picked up a harsh late booking but this was a minor negative in an excellent night for him, and his side as Tom Davies also came on for his first action for some time. The final moments saw United play more keep ball as they eased to the win – their biggest of the season and the first time they have scored three goals.

 

[Deadbat]

United – Really easy night. Not often you say that, even at Championship level but Oxford were poor and put to the sword. The Blades had other gears to go up through I felt but did what they had to do. They scored three decent goals and could have had a lot more really with the keeper making a series of good saves. Oxford huffed and puffed but United just were able to find gaps and utilise the quality of the likes of Hamer, O’Hare and Rak Sakyi. The young players Peck and Seriki were both key players in the win and we also rotated on more young players in Brooks and One late on. Seriki was superb and rivalled Hamer for man of the match. Campbell got enough goal and the defence, although Robinson and Souttar were a bit sloppy with their touches first half (much better as the game went on) were never really pressured. We had an easy night and good we could make 3 changes and still win at a canter. It is hard to know if United were very good or whether Oxford were just really bad. I think it was a bit of both. Oxford never pressed, sat off and had an odd defensive set up where they tried to play a high line at times but then some players forgot and it ended up a bit of a mess. Two goals came from such scenarios where a few defenders were looking for offside, but others were well behind them playing us on!



In terms of the goals, Hamer was involved in all of them with the assist to the assist on one, then the clever passes on the next two. He should have scored but the keeper saved three from him! He was excellent tonight and thought he looked a class above. I also thought O’Hare had his best game for us with his hard work added to some neat link play and a goal and he was busy all night. Peck had a solid game, nothing flash but looked more like a veteran than a young kid, and Souza was very good again. There were no real negatives. One and Brooks did not get in the game much but the game was kind of done and we were fine with just coasting to the win.



Thought it might be a tricky night and expected a few more could be out (rumours of injuries to Souza, Hamer and Rak Sakyi proved to be wrong) and in the end, we did change the defence but the rest of the side was strong and indeed far good for a slow, static Oxford side who probably were happy not to get enough big hammering, after they went 2-0 down. They had a bit of a go late on but the game was done by this point.



It is tight at the top with us, Burnley, Leeds, Sunderland and of course Boro on great form. Friday feels a big game, not season defining but one where can lay a marker against a stuttering Sunderland (who have drawn a number of their recent games) but it will be a full house probably and a good atmosphere and a different kind of night to tonight with a decent side with some good attacking talent. If we have big performances from our main men and keep the spine solid, then you hope we can get another three points and keep the good run going. We do not have a game for 9 days after this one, so it’s important we give it a real good go. The players will get another break in that sense. Be interesting if Moore is risked – maybe he might be put on the bench but I would not risk him as we have a lot of games before Xmas and more Saturday-midweek-Saturday runs to come.



As it stands though, we sit top of the league, on another impressive run and despite the lack of real squad depth, are getting some real tonics in terms of the performances from the young players and that all bodes well for the future.



Ratings:



Cooper 7/10 – Had little to do but then second half made one decent save where pushed over and then one excellent save diving full stretch to push it behind. His kicking and ball work with his feet is excellent and means we can comfortably move things on.



Seriki 8/10 – Given a chance and boy did he take it. Placheta was lively too, so he had to his defensive stuff and first half showed he could come across and help his team with clearances/tackles. He did not get beat at all, the whole game. As the contest developed, he started to come forward more and more and was a real threat. Some marauding runs and two or three good crosses. Linked well with others and was nice and composed and never panicked. Second half started to drive even more and so many of our attacks came from him carrying the ball. His touch and passing was good but the way he used it and just made the right decisions. I expect Gilchrist to come back, with a better Sunderland side to come, but Seriki had shown he can come in and on the evidence might be used more than just as a rotation player. A pleasant surprise this season and fair play to him coming back and taking his opportunity.



McCallum 6.5/10 – Nothing remarkable. Just did his job. A few decent crosses and he used the ball well. Sometimes he took too long to do things and defensively in the first half he switched off a bit but nothing too concerning. Did a job.



Robinson 6.5/10 – Thought first half he was poor and gave it away a fair bit or committed some stupid fouls. He also tackled himself at one point! Second half so much better as he was surer in everything he did with some nice touches and he moved it quicker. Won more of the 50-50 stuff too.



Souttar 6.5/10 – Started a bit sloppy with a few telegraphed passes and also his long balls were not working but gradually got to grips and won his battles and moved it on quicker. Involved in the first, heading it across. He was not really pressured at all and an easy game.



Souza 7.5/10 – Another game where he just oozed class, in terms of picking up the loose stuff, moving it on and threaded some lovely balls through too. He just dominated the midfield area and showed his strength and poise. His ball control and one touch stuff was a big part of some our better moves.



Peck 6.5/10 – Better game than Saturday and much more involved. He used it well and was always showing for it and helped us get up the field. Kept it simple but he was able to turn and allow us to move forwards rather than just always going back or sideways. Love his confidence. Had a few giveaways towards the end of the first half but then got back to retaining possession 2nd half. Solid game.



Rak Sayki 7/10 – Thought he was quiet for spells, as another team doubled up on him but gradually started to have more impact and a few runs and pieces of skill nearly unlocked the door towards the end of the opening half. He was much more involved second half and should have scored as he lashed one wide but then took his goal well. Saw the drop off when Brooks came on as harsh as that sounds.



O’Hare 7.5/10 – Might have been his best game for us. He did lots of good things on the ball, was always looking for it and wanted to make things happen. He was so busy and the ball was almost magnetised to him at times. His end product still lacking at times but his link with others and his energy levels was strong and a big factor in the performance tonight. He works across that line and stops defenders getting out. He got his first goal too which seems a long time in coming!



Hamer 8/10 –Seriki was fantastic but Hamer may just take the man of the match award. He showed some wonderful touches and passes tonight and did some things with the ball that no one else on the field could execute. Involved in all three goals and set the 2nd/3rd up with delightful passes. He somehow did not score with three chances all saved from the keeper – these all were more saves than misses. A joy to watch at times and a class act against a side that looked terrified of him whenever he got the ball.



Campbell 7.5/10 – Seems to be getting better and better. His fitness is improving with the more games he plays and just seems more involved in everything we do now. He linked well at times and set up the first and then scored the second. He neatly had another after the break. Led the line really well and was always a focal point. His performances mean we do not have to rush Moore back. He is on a really hot streak at the moment.



Subs -



Brooks 5/10 – Disappointing when he came on. He was given a fair bit of the ball but always kept coming inside and never once tried to run down the win or go at his man. Being out of the side seems to have hurt his confidence and he was taking the safe option. Needs to be more positive. We were 3-0 up so he had nothing to lose by running at his man.



One 5.5/10 – Struggled to get into it. One good run and cross apart, felt the game became a bit disjointed as we settled for what we had. A few times he got robbed when he was given the ball and they broke.



Norrington Davies 5.5/10 – Steady when he came on. Linked down the left and had a few runs and pieces of interchange.



Shacketon 5/10 – Like with many of the above, the game was done and he was just seeing the game out. Not sure he saw much of the ball and was quiet.



Davies – Nice to have him back. Tried to get on the ball but only had limited time.



Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Managed to rotate a few defenders (one forced) and also could bring a few off with the game done. Did not seem to pick up any injuries and it was a controlled and comprehensive win. After going 2-0 up, like that we came out and looked to put it away second half and did that with a dominant spell and by the hour, when it was 3-0, the game was done. Some may say we could and should have scored more but we did have a number of chances at three and the keeper just made a lot of saves. Wilder was right not to risk the likes of Hamer and Campbell with a big game and tougher opposition to come.





Oxford – Did superbly well to come up via the playoffs with a somewhat surprise win over Bolton. Excellent young manager who has worked around their world and Wilder actually worked with him and moved him into management. They lost their best player – Josh Murphy to Pompey but brought in a few experienced players like Will Vaulks and Matt Phillips. They also brought in Sibley from Derby and also Siriki Dembele from Birmingham but a glance at the squad felt it may be a struggle without that real depth or quality. Not sure they have that home advantage others have, playing a three-sided ground. However, they had some decent wins and carried on the momentum after promotion but things started to get tougher and before this match had won one game in eleven. They got pumped at home to Boro at the weekend and confidence seemed to be brittle.



Tonight, they started ok but as soon as the first went in, their heads dropped. It was a sloppy goal from a long throw (weirdly Vaulks never took any for them despite him having a long throw?) and even though they tried to stay in it, the second seemed to just end it. After this their were spells where they had to just hang on in and if the keeper does not make 6 or 7 saves, they could have been on the end of another Boro type score. They had a late flurry and tried to salvage a consolation but overall they were well beaten. They looked like a side that was a division off the Blades as the technique and power of the two respective sides, were at seemingly different levels. In the end, they were probably just happy to get out with only a 3-0 defeat. They looked a really poor side and one that you would expect will be in a relegation scrap. The division has some bad sides and with the likes of Plymouth, Hull and QPR struggling, they can at least have a fighting chance of staying up but on the evidence of tonight, I fear for them. They was not much fight and it was almost like they accepted the defeat but just did not want to get embarrassed.



Opponent Man of the Match – Scarlett toiled on his own and a few of the subs showed some bright spots but the keeper was the only real stand out and kept the score down with some great full length saves.



Opponent Weak link – Thought the centre backs were statuesque and Long/Brown were given little protection in front as we walked through them and the midfield left them badly exposed. However, the right back. Leigh was woeful. He did not do much right all night and JRS and Seriki eyes lit up every time they saw him. Did not help he kept passing it back to us!



Referee/Officials – Leigh Doughty. Seen him once this season against Swansea this year where it was all a bit stop start. He is the referee we had against Wrexham a few years ago but also reffed us in wins against Blackburn (3-0) and Luton (0-1) in the promotion season. Thought in an easy game, he still made it too stop start tonight. I get they were frustrated as he failed to card Souza or Hamer for fouls (not sure they were yellows) but then booked Goodrham. No more cards apart from late on for Seriki and this seemed harsh – just a barge – never a booking. My main gripe was his inability to stand in the right places, as the ball struck him three times I counted! He kept standing exactly where we were playing a sideways ball. He did it constantly and was really annoying me. Maybe he was cold and wanted to get in on the action.





Crowd – Crowd of only 25,574, lowest of the season as Oxford maybe brought 600-700 tops? Long way to come to see their teams well beaten but kept their sense of humour with Oles to a few passes near the end and singing, ‘We are going to score in a minute!’ They probably wondered why we did not sing but of course, such a flat game and one that seemed like a practice/reserve match such was the lack of intensity, meant the home fans were not going to sing much and it was quiet despite us winning at a canter.

 

[Feo]

Why temporarily top of the league

 

[Northyorksblade]

Why temporarily top of the league

If Leeds win tomorrow they go top on GD

 

[FTPE]

Why temporarily top of the league

Because Leeds play tomorrow

 

[Feo]

And ?

 

[Feo]

If Leeds win tomorrow they go top on GD

They might not win

 

[Northyorksblade]

They might not win

I said 'if' and they're at home to Luton. A cert home win I would suggest.

 

[Keen Blade]

United – Really easy night. Not often you say that, even at Championship level but Oxford were poor and put to the sword. The Blades had other gears to go up through I felt but did what they had to do. They scored three decent goals and could have had a lot more really with the keeper making a series of good saves. Oxford huffed and puffed but United just were able to find gaps and utilise the quality of the likes of Hamer, O’Hare and Rak Sakyi. The young players Peck and Seriki were both key players in the win and we also rotated on more young players in Brooks and One late on. Seriki was superb and rivalled Hamer for man of the match. Campbell got enough goal and the defence, although Robinson and Souttar were a bit sloppy with their touches first half (much better as the game went on) were never really pressured. We had an easy night and good we could make 3 changes and still win at a canter. It is hard to know if United were very good or whether Oxford were just really bad. I think it was a bit of both. Oxford never pressed, sat off and had an odd defensive set up where they tried to play a high line at times but then some players forgot and it ended up a bit of a mess. Two goals came from such scenarios where a few defenders were looking for offside, but others were well behind them playing us on!



In terms of the goals, Hamer was involved in all of them with the assist to the assist on one, then the clever passes on the next two. He should have scored but the keeper saved three from him! He was excellent tonight and thought he looked a class above. I also thought O’Hare had his best game for us with his hard work added to some neat link play and a goal and he was busy all night. Peck had a solid game, nothing flash but looked more like a veteran than a young kid, and Souza was very good again. There were no real negatives. One and Brooks did not get in the game much but the game was kind of done and we were fine with just coasting to the win.



Thought it might be a tricky night and expected a few more could be out (rumours of injuries to Souza, Hamer and Rak Sakyi proved to be wrong) and in the end, we did change the defence but the rest of the side was strong and indeed far good for a slow, static Oxford side who probably were happy not to get enough big hammering, after they went 2-0 down. They had a bit of a go late on but the game was done by this point.



It is tight at the top with us, Burnley, Leeds, Sunderland and of course Boro on great form. Friday feels a big game, not season defining but one where can lay a marker against a stuttering Sunderland (who have drawn a number of their recent games) but it will be a full house probably and a good atmosphere and a different kind of night to tonight with a decent side with some good attacking talent. If we have big performances from our main men and keep the spine solid, then you hope we can get another three points and keep the good run going. We do not have a game for 9 days after this one, so it’s important we give it a real good go. The players will get another break in that sense. Be interesting if Moore is risked – maybe he might be put on the bench but I would not risk him as we have a lot of games before Xmas and more Saturday-midweek-Saturday runs to come.



As it stands though, we sit top of the league, on another impressive run and despite the lack of real squad depth, are getting some real tonics in terms of the performances from the young players and that all bodes well for the future.



Ratings:



Cooper 7/10 – Had little to do but then second half made one decent save where pushed over and then one excellent save diving full stretch to push it behind. His kicking and ball work with his feet is excellent and means we can comfortably move things on.



Seriki 8/10 – Given a chance and boy did he take it. Placheta was lively too, so he had to his defensive stuff and first half showed he could come across and help his team with clearances/tackles. He did not get beat at all, the whole game. As the contest developed, he started to come forward more and more and was a real threat. Some marauding runs and two or three good crosses. Linked well with others and was nice and composed and never panicked. Second half started to drive even more and so many of our attacks came from him carrying the ball. His touch and passing was good but the way he used it and just made the right decisions. I expect Gilchrist to come back, with a better Sunderland side to come, but Seriki had shown he can come in and on the evidence might be used more than just as a rotation player. A pleasant surprise this season and fair play to him coming back and taking his opportunity.



McCallum 6.5/10 – Nothing remarkable. Just did his job. A few decent crosses and he used the ball well. Sometimes he took too long to do things and defensively in the first half he switched off a bit but nothing too concerning. Did a job.



Robinson 6.5/10 – Thought first half he was poor and gave it away a fair bit or committed some stupid fouls. He also tackled himself at one point! Second half so much better as he was surer in everything he did with some nice touches and he moved it quicker. Won more of the 50-50 stuff too.



Souttar 6.5/10 – Started a bit sloppy with a few telegraphed passes and also his long balls were not working but gradually got to grips and won his battles and moved it on quicker. Involved in the first, heading it across. He was not really pressured at all and an easy game.



Souza 7.5/10 – Another game where he just oozed class, in terms of picking up the loose stuff, moving it on and threaded some lovely balls through too. He just dominated the midfield area and showed his strength and poise. His ball control and one touch stuff was a big part of some our better moves.



Peck 6.5/10 – Better game than Saturday and much more involved. He used it well and was always showing for it and helped us get up the field. Kept it simple but he was able to turn and allow us to move forwards rather than just always going back or sideways. Love his confidence. Had a few giveaways towards the end of the first half but then got back to retaining possession 2nd half. Solid game.



Rak Sayki 7/10 – Thought he was quiet for spells, as another team doubled up on him but gradually started to have more impact and a few runs and pieces of skill nearly unlocked the door towards the end of the opening half. He was much more involved second half and should have scored as he lashed one wide but then took his goal well. Saw the drop off when Brooks came on as harsh as that sounds.



O’Hare 7.5/10 – Might have been his best game for us. He did lots of good things on the ball, was always looking for it and wanted to make things happen. He was so busy and the ball was almost magnetised to him at times. His end product still lacking at times but his link with others and his energy levels was strong and a big factor in the performance tonight. He works across that line and stops defenders getting out. He got his first goal too which seems a long time in coming!



Hamer 8/10 –Seriki was fantastic but Hamer may just take the man of the match award. He showed some wonderful touches and passes tonight and did some things with the ball that no one else on the field could execute. Involved in all three goals and set the 2nd/3rd up with delightful passes. He somehow did not score with three chances all saved from the keeper – these all were more saves than misses. A joy to watch at times and a class act against a side that looked terrified of him whenever he got the ball.



Campbell 7.5/10 – Seems to be getting better and better. His fitness is improving with the more games he plays and just seems more involved in everything we do now. He linked well at times and set up the first and then scored the second. He neatly had another after the break. Led the line really well and was always a focal point. His performances mean we do not have to rush Moore back. He is on a really hot streak at the moment.



Subs -



Brooks 5/10 – Disappointing when he came on. He was given a fair bit of the ball but always kept coming inside and never once tried to run down the win or go at his man. Being out of the side seems to have hurt his confidence and he was taking the safe option. Needs to be more positive. We were 3-0 up so he had nothing to lose by running at his man.



One 5.5/10 – Struggled to get into it. One good run and cross apart, felt the game became a bit disjointed as we settled for what we had. A few times he got robbed when he was given the ball and they broke.



Norrington Davies 5.5/10 – Steady when he came on. Linked down the left and had a few runs and pieces of interchange.



Shacketon 5/10 – Like with many of the above, the game was done and he was just seeing the game out. Not sure he saw much of the ball and was quiet.



Davies – Nice to have him back. Tried to get on the ball but only had limited time.



Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Managed to rotate a few defenders (one forced) and also could bring a few off with the game done. Did not seem to pick up any injuries and it was a controlled and comprehensive win. After going 2-0 up, like that we came out and looked to put it away second half and did that with a dominant spell and by the hour, when it was 3-0, the game was done. Some may say we could and should have scored more but we did have a number of chances at three and the keeper just made a lot of saves. Wilder was right not to risk the likes of Hamer and Campbell with a big game and tougher opposition to come.





Oxford – Did superbly well to come up via the playoffs with a somewhat surprise win over Bolton. Excellent young manager who has worked around their world and Wilder actually worked with him and moved him into management. They lost their best player – Josh Murphy to Pompey but brought in a few experienced players like Will Vaulks and Matt Phillips. They also brought in Sibley from Derby and also Siriki Dembele from Birmingham but a glance at the squad felt it may be a struggle without that real depth or quality. Not sure they have that home advantage others have, playing a three-sided ground. However, they had some decent wins and carried on the momentum after promotion but things started to get tougher and before this match had won one game in eleven. They got pumped at home to Boro at the weekend and confidence seemed to be brittle.



Tonight, they started ok but as soon as the first went in, their heads dropped. It was a sloppy goal from a long throw (weirdly Vaulks never took any for them despite him having a long throw?) and even though they tried to stay in it, the second seemed to just end it. After this their were spells where they had to just hang on in and if the keeper does not make 6 or 7 saves, they could have been on the end of another Boro type score. They had a late flurry and tried to salvage a consolation but overall they were well beaten. They looked like a side that was a division off the Blades as the technique and power of the two respective sides, were at seemingly different levels. In the end, they were probably just happy to get out with only a 3-0 defeat. They looked a really poor side and one that you would expect will be in a relegation scrap. The division has some bad sides and with the likes of Plymouth, Hull and QPR struggling, they can at least have a fighting chance of staying up but on the evidence of tonight, I fear for them. They was not much fight and it was almost like they accepted the defeat but just did not want to get embarrassed.



Opponent Man of the Match – Scarlett toiled on his own and a few of the subs showed some bright spots but the keeper was the only real stand out and kept the score down with some great full length saves.



Opponent Weak link – Thought the centre backs were statuesque and Long/Brown were given little protection in front as we walked through them and the midfield left them badly exposed. However, the right back. Leigh was woeful. He did not do much right all night and JRS and Seriki eyes lit up every time they saw him. Did not help he kept passing it back to us!



Referee/Officials – Leigh Doughty. Seen him once this season against Swansea this year where it was all a bit stop start. He is the referee we had against Wrexham a few years ago but also reffed us in wins against Blackburn (3-0) and Luton (0-1) in the promotion season. Thought in an easy game, he still made it too stop start tonight. I get they were frustrated as he failed to card Souza or Hamer for fouls (not sure they were yellows) but then booked Goodrham. No more cards apart from late on for Seriki and this seemed harsh – just a barge – never a booking. My main gripe was his inability to stand in the right places, as the ball struck him three times I counted! He kept standing exactly where we were playing a sideways ball. He did it constantly and was really annoying me. Maybe he was cold and wanted to get in on the action.





Crowd – Crowd of only 25,574, lowest of the season as Oxford maybe brought 600-700 tops? Long way to come to see their teams well beaten but kept their sense of humour with Oles to a few passes near the end and singing, ‘We are going to score in a minute!’ They probably wondered why we did not sing but of course, such a flat game and one that seemed like a practice/reserve match such was the lack of intensity, meant the home fans were not going to sing much and it was quiet despite us winning at a canter.

Brooks - I feel sorry for him
He's clearly L footed
He doesn't have much of a R foot but usually replaces JRS which means he's put on the RW.
I watched him closely tonight coz I really want him to develop with us.
He barely uses his R foot even when it is quite wrong for him to use his L.
It's unfair to put him on R wing where he can't be effective.
Wilder's stubborn about this and it doesn't work.
Hamer +/or O'Hare are R footers out on LW , which doesn't favour them.
All you have to do when Brooks comes on is put him on the L where he's always been
And swap Hamer/O'Hare to the RW.

That would benefit the team.

Brooks will never be as comfortable as JRS is on the RW , coz JRS , who favours his L foot , is virtually 2 footed.

If Wilder needs convincing about this , just look at Seriki , a R footer on R flank

 

[Revolution]

So that's seven straight home clean sheets in the league.

That, I think, ties the club record, set by Paul Tomlinson in 1983-4, when the results were:

5-0 v Southend (Tomlinson saved a penalty on his league debut)
3-0 v Rotherham
5-0 v Bolton
0-0 v Burnley
2-0 v Millwall
0-0 v Lincoln
2-0 v Plymouth

The next home game was a 6-3 win over Orient, when we went 2-0 up and 3-2 down before sticking 4 past them in the last half hour.

So the record can be broken on Friday.

 

[John Street West Terrace]

Very dominant performance once O’Hare notched that early goal we were on the front foot & comfortable. Thought we came out the second half with some momentum & had them penned back around their own box & was no surprise when JRS bagged No 3 after a slick passing . At this point I thought were hand out our first hiding of the season but the 3 subs on the hour absolutely de-railed us … Yes in know we’re playing Sunderland on Friday but I just wished Wilder had left it 10 more minutes & genuinely think we might have had a couple more goals & then shuffled the pack .

I’m being picky now as the jobs done & we’re top of the league for 24hors at least .. well done lads & glad O’Hares scored as it might get a few of the nay sayers off his back .
MOTM .. Hamer & Seriki .. Hamer back in middle involved & pulling all the strings with his passing .. Seriki like a steam train up & down the right channel & carrying the ball & supplying ammunition & defensively aggressive & some cracking challenges.

Under performer - Brooksy .. dear god his confidence looks shot & the same when he played at Bristol City ..kept taking the safe option & actually stopped Seriki pushing on after his introduction.. I feel sorry for the lad as so very left pegged & only gets played on the right with his only option of cutting in ., when he receives the ball out there he’s always looking at going backwards straightaway & looks a square peg in round hole out there .

Cooper 7.5
Seriki 8
Souttar 7
Robbo 7
McCallum 6
Hamer 8
Souza 7.5
O’Hare 7
Peck 6
Rak Sakai 7.5
Campbell 7.5

One 5.5
Shacks 5
RND 5
Davies 4
Brooks 3

 

[John Street West Terrace]

Brooks - I feel sorry for him
He's clearly L footed
He doesn't have much of a R foot but usually replaces JRS which means he's put on the RW.
I watched him closely tonight coz I really want him to develop with us.
He barely uses his R foot even when it is quite wrong for him to use his L.
It's unfair to put him on R wing where he can't be effective.
Wilder's stubborn about this and it doesn't work.
Hamer +/or O'Hare are R footers out on LW , which doesn't favour them.
All you have to do when Brooks comes on is put him on the L where he's always been
And swap Hamer/O'Hare to the RW.

That would benefit the team.

Brooks will never be as comfortable as JRS is on the RW , coz JRS , who favours his L foot , is virtually 2 footed.

If Wilder needs convincing about this , just look at Seriki , a R footer on R flank

 

[103SecondsOfMagic]

He neatly had another after the break

Not just CW who thought Campbell scored 2!

Cheers DB, for exiled Blades like myself your reports give us a real connection to the matches, your efforts are much appreciated

 

[Houston_Blade]

Seriki and Hamer both 8/10 and MoM’s for me. Seriki got done once early on and allowed a cross, Robinson cleared it and then gave him a death stare. He was superb after that.

 

[S64 Blade]

Brooks - I feel sorry for him
He's clearly L footed
He doesn't have much of a R foot but usually replaces JRS which means he's put on the RW.
I watched him closely tonight coz I really want him to develop with us.
He barely uses his R foot even when it is quite wrong for him to use his L.
It's unfair to put him on R wing where he can't be effective.
Wilder's stubborn about this and it doesn't work.
Hamer +/or O'Hare are R footers out on LW , which doesn't favour them.
All you have to do when Brooks comes on is put him on the L where he's always been
And swap Hamer/O'Hare to the RW.

That would benefit the team.

Brooks will never be as comfortable as JRS is on the RW , coz JRS , who favours his L foot , is virtually 2 footed.

If Wilder needs convincing about this , just look at Seriki , a R footer on R flank

A bit harsh I feel on Brooks by Deadbat, too about not attacking down the wing with the ball. Was clear that after those subs we shut up shop and he had been told not to do that and keep it simple. Which is why he was coming inside. The same was happening on the left. Obviously the game plan from that point on.

 

[1973Blade]

It’s seven straight wins at home and seven consecutive clean sheets for the Blades as they easily dispatched Oxford at the Lane on Tuesday evening. Goals from Callum O’Hare, his first for the Blades, another for Tyrese Campbell and a third from Jesrun Rak Sakyi made it a comfortable evening for Chris Wilder’s men who temporarily go to the top of the table. Michael Cooper, who made a smart save late on, has incredibly still not conceded a single goal at Bramall Lane so far! The Blades were able to get the three points, rotate the squad and in the end could have won by an even bigger margin.



The starting line up saw Seriki and McCallum in for Gilchrist and Burrows with Robinson replacing the suspended Ahmedhozic, in a much-changed defence. Oxford were hit for six at the weekend and were looking to restore their fragile confidence after a recent poor run of results.



The Blades looked to move the ball around and were moving it around crisply but both O’Hare and Campbell’s touches were heavy on a skiddy surface. The visitors tried to respond but Souza snuffed out any danger and set United on the attack. The home side won a throw in an opted to utilise Robinson. His throw was won by Souttar and dropped for Campbell at the back post. The striker drilled it across and O’HARE managed to divert it into the net, to register his first goal for the club.



Oxford managed to respond and at least had spell on the ball but were unable to create anything of note and United continued to move the ball around neatly with O’Hare and Hamer linking well. Seriki was also proving an excellent outlet on the right. The second goal came on 26 minutes as Souza and Peck moved it around with one touch football but it was Hamer who picked out the pass to feed CAMPBELL and the strikers first touch was excellent, as he beat the offside trap, advanced towards goal and cooly rounded the keeper to slot into the empty net.



United now were firmly in the mood and more one touch play with flicks and tricks aplenty saw Hamer show his class. The midfielder twice could have scored before the break. Once after neat build up saw the ball played across and his finish across the keeper saw Cumming divert it round the post. Soon after from a clever Peck corner, floated to the far post, the keeper made an even better save to deny Hamer’s powerful driven half volley.



The Blades were now just moved the ball around and Oxford looked like they wanted half time, as Campbell and O’Hare both nearly got in after good work from Rak Sakyi and also Seriki with some showboating aplenty.



The second half saw it continue to be one way traffic with Seriki’s confidence growing as he was involved in a series of attacks with his pace and dribbling, a real feature. O’Hare had one found Rak Sakyi but the winger smashed his shot wide when he should have scored. However, soon after he did have his goal. Lovely build up again with Souza’s back heel playing in Hamer and the midfielder’s pass dissected the backline straight down the middle and RAK SAKYI was onside and finished this one with aplomb giving Cumming the eyes and sending it into the far corner.



The game was effectively done and it was now just a case of whether United could add to their margin. They should have done with Campbell brushing off his man and deciding to go for goal on the angle and the keeper managed to divert it away. Soon after Seriki’s powerful shot pushed away and then Hamer denied again by the keeper.



One and Brooks replaced Campell and Rak Sakyi as United had one eye on Friday. Hamer continued to show his ability on the ball but Seriki also continued to show his impressive energy levels giving Leigh a torrid time down the United right hand side. Two more changes came with Shackleton and Norrington Davies coming on for Hamer and Peck. Oxford made a series of changes and one of the substitutes, Phillips had a shot pushed over with Cooper’s first real action. The keeper had to make an even better save to deny another sub, El Mizouni as the ball seemed destined for the top corner.



Seriki picked up a harsh late booking but this was a minor negative in an excellent night for him, and his side as Tom Davies also came on for his first action for some time. The final moments saw United play more keep ball as they eased to the win – their biggest of the season and the first time they have scored three goals.

Michael Cooper has conceded goals at Bramall Lane - for Plymouth when we played them in the Cup in 2021

 

[CaptainMorgans]

Some harsh marking on Peck. I thought he had a really decent game last night. A lot more confident and got on the ball far more.

 

[Addison]

Credit to Oxford for coming and having a go unlike the bus parkers of S6. Going forward they are useful with Scarlett and the pacy number 7. Branningan in midfield is a decent player for this level. Unfortunately its at the back where they suffered.

3 goals scored, none conceded and only 1 booking, was never one, from one of the worst refs in the league, whats not to like. We over elaborated at times on the edge of the box but a good 3 points with Seriki showing EPL standard, pace, strength and physique. He kept a very useful winger quiet.

Agree with the comments about our 2 centre backs being static when in possession. They got better as the game wore on but we've lost Anels ability to bring the ball out of defence and get us up the pitch quickly for 3 games. It will be interesting to see how they both cope with the pace and pressing of Sunderland on Friday.

Can't disagree with any of the marking but echo previous comments about Brooks being one footed. When he was moved to the left for the last 7 minutes to accommodate Davies he looked a much better balanced player. A real test of our capabilities coming up on Friday.

 

[1973Blade]

I missed the incident when Robinson tackled himself when did this happen?!

 

[Coolblade]

A few observations from the stats:

- Seriki break through performance was fairly reflected in the stats, but defensively as well as offensively, with twice as many successful tackles as anyone else, and second most clearances with second most crosses, and a ludicrously high pass completion rate of 98.6%, and 5 successful dribbles (next best 2)! Awesome!!

- Hamer had the highest overall number of positive contributions (including 2 assists), second most shots on target, second most dribbles etc. but O’Hare had his highest contribution (2 key passes, 2 shots etc) possibly due to strength of the opposition- and Rak-Saki had most key passes as well as his goal. Campbell also had 4 shots (most for him all season) and his finishing looks more assured than anyone we’ve had for a while.

- our usual defensive strength came through Vini and Souttar (joint most aerial duels etc) although we weren’t put under much pressure. With a last comment about Cooper’s great save towards the end, despite rarely being called on - showing great concentration.

 

[MadDad38]

Thanks for the report Deadbat, an excellent summary.

My possibly unpopular opinion would be to give MOTM to Cooper. In what was a really dominant win, nonetheless he pulled off 2 important saves thus avoiding a nervy last few minutes. Maybe I am still traumatised by the Wes/Grbic show of last season….

Did anyone else think that Seriki’s card saved one being given to Souza for a foul moments earlier. In that sense he’s taken one for the team there.

Fully agree that Oxford’s heads went down immediately the first goal went in. I could see them having better days against the teams they need to beat if the manager gets their heads straight.

 

[Barmyblade]

Thanks to both DB and Cool. Great insights.

Cooper’s calm assurance and impact on the team shouldn’t be underestimated even if individual match stats never fully show his contribution.

 

[coaxingstar71]

We played some really good football last night. Perhaps partly because of the quality of our opponents but you can only beat what’s in front of you.
In a weird way I think it’s partly because we don’t have Moore to hit long balls too. With Campbell we need to play to feet or play more through balls and as a result Campbell got on the ball more.
Ironically I went to the game at Oxford in 2017 and we started with James Hanson up front. We just kept punting high balls to him and we were poor and losing 1-0 at half time. Lavery came on for Hanson at halftime so we had to play on the deck, played much better and won 3-2. Literally a game of two halves.

 

[Chessie dave]

Does the constant tippy tappy sideways and backwards passing of the central defenders concern anyone? Anel often does the same. I particularly got frustrated at the end of first half, when Gaz announced one minute left ….. for goodness sake, send it forward immediately and have one more attempt at goal before half time…..but no, just tippy tappy keep ball to run down the clock.

 

[dexter101]

Does the constant tippy tappy sideways and backwards passing of the central defenders concern anyone? Anel often does the same. I particularly got frustrated at the end of first half, when Gaz announced one minute left ….. for goodness sake, send it forward immediately and have one more attempt at goal before half time…..but no, just tippy tappy keep ball to run down the clock.

Not a concern for me but it does seem aimless for some of the time. I think when vini or peck were slightly deeper and showing as options you suddenly saw what they were trying to do and it quickly went forwards but first 15 minutes I thought we were just trying to hypnotise them... maybe that was the plan and it worked!

 

[Sheffsteel]

Crowd – Crowd of only 25,574, lowest of the season as Oxford maybe brought 600-700 tops? Long way to come to see their teams well beaten but kept their sense of humour with Oles to a few passes near the end and singing, ‘We are going to score in a minute!’ They probably wondered why we did not sing but of course, such a flat game and one that seemed like a practice/reserve match such was the lack of intensity, meant the home fans were not going to sing much and it was quiet despite us winning at a canter.

Our lowest crowd this season was 25,112 with Swansea bringing an incredibly low 120.
In fact that Swansea attendance was our lowest since the 1918-19 season.

Agree the Oxford fans were more than decent, both in numbers and regards singing.
When they got a corner with 10 minutes to go and losing 3-0, to the "Blue Moon" tune they were singing
"4-3...we're going to win 4-3, we're going to win 4-3, we're going to win 4-3".

Felt a bit sorry for them, they literally had nothing to cheer apart from the odd corner.
Strange atmosphere overall because it was a mismatch, there was zero jeopardy or nerves, it was more like a pre-season friendly.

 

[CaptainMorgans]

A few observations from the stats:

- Seriki break through performance was fairly reflected in the stats, but defensively as well as offensively, with twice as many successful tackles as anyone else, and second most clearances with second most crosses, and a ludicrously high pass completion rate of 98.6%, and 5 successful dribbles (next best 2)! Awesome!!

- Hamer had the highest overall number of positive contributions (including 2 assists), second most shots on target, second most dribbles etc. but O’Hare had his highest contribution (2 key passes, 2 shots etc) possibly due to strength of the opposition- and Rak-Saki had most key passes as well as his goal. Campbell also had 4 shots (most for him all season) and his finishing looks more assured than anyone we’ve had for a while.

- our usual defensive strength came through Vini and Souttar (joint most aerial duels etc) although we weren’t put under much pressure. With a last comment about Cooper’s great save towards the end, despite rarely being called on - showing great concentration.

Enjoy these follow-up posts to Deadbat's reports.

Interesting to see how (or if) the eye-test marries up to the facts.

These stats further reinforce what a strong night it was from Seriki & Hamer, and offer some encouragement re: O'Hare who I've been a little bit critical of (in possession).

I wanted us to give Souza & Souttar a rest as soon as we made the game safe at 3-0, but we were operating in cruise control by then and I didn't feel we exerted a great deal.
A very tight turnaround to Friday night though.

 

[Sheffsteel]

Does the constant tippy tappy sideways and backwards passing of the central defenders concern anyone? Anel often does the same. I particularly got frustrated at the end of first half, when Gaz announced one minute left ….. for goodness sake, send it forward immediately and have one more attempt at goal before half time…..but no, just tippy tappy keep ball to run down the clock.

Know what you mean but I disagree.
Against a good team.....especially at Premier league level.....it's essential to relieve pressure by "just keeping aimless possession".

Ive noticed an issue that Wilder needs to sort out.

Away at Leeds, away at Boro in the 2nd half, away at Coventry 2nd half.......we hardly had any possession.
The defence were under almost constant pressure and we just booted it up field straight back to their players.

I'm thinking.....the defence desperately needs some rest.....why have we suddenly gone long ball.
When under pressure we need to learn to take the wind out of the oppositions sail by "just keeping possession".

Appreciate Oxford were poor but we made them look poor because they never had a chance to develop their game.
Basically we learnt from the QPR game.....by keeping possession....ensuring Oxford were never in it.

 

[Bobby b]

Great post thanks deadbat.
I agree with all the ratings but sometimes I feel sorry for hamer and Souza, because they are consistently good game after game so we expect them to be good, had Berge had a game like these had last night his mark would've been a 9, I just hope the pair of them don't have an average Berge game or they would be given a 3

 

[Keen Blade]

Does the constant tippy tappy sideways and backwards passing of the central defenders concern anyone? Anel often does the same. I particularly got frustrated at the end of first half, when Gaz announced one minute left ….. for goodness sake, send it forward immediately and have one more attempt at goal before half time…..but no, just tippy tappy keep ball to run down the clock.

Tippy tappy sideways & backwards will make us very vulnerable on Friday.

I personally detest it.
1. It allows oppo defence to completely re-set whilst we are pissing about.
2. When oppo press is good , it risks losing the ball and gifting them a chance.
3. It's boring to watch.