Wednesday 0 United 1 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

Confession time: I did not watch the game, either in person, or on TV. Terrible I know! Not getting tickets and knowing how nervous I would be watching on TV with my family – I made the decision to get away from it all!



I went on a 40-mile bike ride to Ladybower, Stanage Edge and back down Ringinglow. Switched my phone off and had no contact with the outside world! Yes, I bottled it but took the pressure off. I put my phone on at 2.20pm and saw it was 0-1 with stoppage time left. I let out a huge, ‘f*****g get in!’ and then popped my phone away until I got up the hill to Burbage and checked again to see it was FT before more exclamations and rang the family on a video call! After the game I went down to the Clubhouse and then the hotel and saw several players and Wilder too and had a few pints. Felt a bit of an imposter after not seeing the game but I find them so stressful so it was nice tootling into the Peaks with no idea of what was happening! I have now watched the game back and so below is my account….I know shameless to not watch but I am not a good TV watcher of such games so just thought I’d get away and then enjoy it all after. If we had lost, you may not have got the below of course!



---



It was glory for the red half of the steel city as United once again beat Wednesday by a single goal and earned a derby double in the process. Rhian Brewster was the hero as the Blades edged another tight contest and in doing so kept pace with Leeds United, and edged above promotion rivals Burnley in the three-way fight for automatic promotion. The defeat for the home side probably puts paid to any chances they have, of making the end of season play offs and was a third straight defeat at home meaning their away form may ultimately count for nothing. United continued their dogged performances where they do enough to be on the right side of margins with visiting keeper Michael Cooper making key saves to ensure United came out of derbies without conceding a goal.



Vinicius Souza was ruled out in the build up meaning Choudhury and Peck had to continue in midfield. Rhian Brewster got the nod over Callum O’Hare as the attacking support for Tyrese Campbell. Holding, Rak Sakyi and O’Hare all dropped to the bench. Wednesday went for a muscular looking line up with Smith, Paterson and Iorfa all starting. Former Blade Max Lowe began as one of three defenders picked by the Owls.



Wednesday were forced to kick towards their own fans but started on top and forced the Blades back early on. A shot from Paterson from the angle was blocked by Seriki out for a corner and the full back had to hobble to his feet after making the block. Wednesday hurled two long throws into the box as the home side were able to pen the Blades back. Paterson then won a free kick for a foul on Seriki as the Owls continued their strong start. Hatsuse wasted the free kick knocking the ball straight out of play. The best chance of the early proceedings came as the cross came in from Hatsuse and Smith won the header but Cooper did very well to spring upward and push the ball over the bar. The home side won another corner as the Blades were struggling to get out and the quick start for Wednesday continued. Bannan’s corner was met by Ihiekwe but this effort was well off target.



United finally got up the field and Hamer’s quick feet found space down the right but Brereton Diaz’s cross was blocked off. United then did have a better spell before a few niggly moment saw Seriki taken down and then Brereton Diaz was felled and then had the ball fired at him leading to a melee between both sets of players. Brereton Diaz and Paterson both got booked which seemed off when it was the Wednesday man that had caused the disagreement that followed.

The Blades started to find a foothold and Brereton Diaz got the ball on the angle and hit an angled shot that deflected wide for the visitors first corner of the game in 20 minutes. The Owls cleared the ball but United remained firmly in the Wednesday half and Campbell flashed an effort across the face of the goal, after initially missing the first effort.



The next period of the game was scrappy with few goalmouth moments and both teams giving the ball away too easily but the Blades will have been happy to have settled down after being forced back early on. Seriki then was fed down the right and beat his man before firing in a shot that deflected wide for a corner. The ball fell for Campbell but his effort deflected away as United were now looking the more likely. Hamer’s through ball almost picked out Campbell as Beadle had to come out and take the ball as the striker looked to pounce. Brereton Diaz got down the right again with no challenge and his cross was met by Brewster but his header flicked off target.



Former Blade Maz Lowe picked up a knock and was replaced by Valentin on 40 minutes before United created a fantastic opportunity as Brereton Diaz played in Burrows. His cross just evaded Campbell in the centre of the goal. Wednesday now were the ones getting deeper and deeper and Hamer and Peck were controlling midfield for the Blades. Seriki was brough down by Hatsuse, in an unnecessary foul. Hamer’s delivery fell on the outside of the box but Choudhury’s effort was blocked by Valentin. Robinson long throw came to nothing and the half time whistle came soon after. Wednesday had edged the first 10 minutes but United then had taken control of the game but Smith’s effort was the only one that had tested either keeper.



The second half saw a skirmish between Brereton Diaz and Gassama but the referee rightly took no more action before Burrows committed a stupid foul on Valentin giving Wednesday a free kick out right. The free kick was headed down from Ihiekwe but comfortable from Cooper. Seriki then brought down Iorfa after outrunning the ball on his own attacking run. Windass hit an effort well off target for the home side and then had an effort deflected over from Burrows after a break led by Bannan. This was the best opportunity for Wednesday since the early stages. The home side had edged the early running in the second half as the game approached the hour mark. Gassama felled Peck as United looked to break out and get further up the field.



Choudhury then got across to make an excellent block after the ball in from Smith that saw another Wednesday corner. The delivery was headed well wide by Ihiekwe. United had not offered much in an attacking sense but on 64 minutes, the Blades made the decisive breakthrough.



The ball was played inside and Peck’s clever break set the chance up. Campbell got down the side and beat his man too easily and as his cross was only half palmed out by Beadle, BREWSTER was on the spot to turn home in front of the Wednesday Kop. The forward was joined by his teammates with joy unbridled at such an important goal.



United now sensed blood and nearly got a second as Peck had a low shot saved by Beadle. Wednesday tried to respond and Gassama finally got the better of Seiki but went to ground too easily. Wednesday made changes as a triple change was incoming with Ingelsson, Chalobah, Johnson and on for Paterson, Hatsuse and Charles. Hamer looked to find Campbell but the flag went up rendering Valentin’s block irrelevant. The match was now becoming stop start and this probably suited United. Cannon came on for Campbell for the visitors, in their first change.



Wednesday tried to find opportunities as Ingelsson launched a long throw but the ball bounced around and was eventually cleared. Ahmedhodzic headed away and then Hamer stepped across despite appeals for a free kick as United now looked to perhaps hold what they had. Musaba replaced Gassama as Wednesday made their final change of the contest. McCallum and O’Hare then came on for Hamer and Brewster as the game entered the final 10 minutes.



Johnson then overstretched and his lunge at Ahmedhodzic earned him a yellow card. The match was moving along with Wednesday struggling to create anything of note but then on 88 minutes, they had their big chance as Johnson met the ball at the far post and hit a shot that Cooper saved. Ingelsson was on the rebound but could not react in time and fired over on full stretch. Ahmedhodzic went into the book after Brereton Diaz gave it away leading to the centre half having to take one for the team.



Holding replaced Brereton Diaz as the clock hit 90 minutes. There was 6 minutes of additional time to be played. The free kick came in from Bannan but Seriki headed clear and Cannon helped on. Cooper took the long throw. Smith’s flick on then saw Musaba beat Robinson but his cross shot was palmed away by Cooper leading to a corner but the keeper took the high ball again. Seriki broke down the side and nearly found Cannon but the defender got across to make the block. The game ticked into the final minute and Ahmedhodzic read the ball through and was felled. McCallum made a mess of a break and Wednesday won a late corner as Robinson got his foot in. As the ball came in, O’Hare hooked away and that was it. The full-time whistle went and the Blades players sprinted towards the Leppings Lane End to celebrate with their supporters. It was six wins on the road in a row and United went back to the Championship summit joining Yorkshire rivals Leeds United. For the visitors, their hope of the playoffs are now probably a remote one as they feel the pain of losing twice to their city rivals.

 

[Deadbat]

United – Today was all about the result, as was the first one at the Lane. After Leeds/Burnley have picked up vital wins since our late heartache against Bristol City, it was more than just beating them lot too. In the end, it was a huge three points and regardless of what kind of game it was, it was all about the bragging rights and we got it again. Any derby double is rare so we have to enjoy it. The game itself was poor. I was worried when Souza was out, as with us of course not having Souttar, I felt their physical strength and big men (picked Paterson, Smith and Iorfa) they may cause us problems but in the end, they did have a few chances but it was an even game lacking much quality throughout. They had more opportunities than they had at the Lane and of course the Smith header, Windass block and the late one over the bar were arguable better than any we had, outside the goal but we did have some of our own via Campell and Brereton Diaz.



The game was not helped by a dreadful pitch which saw the ball bobbling all over the place and the Owls certainly came out quickly and had the Smith chance, a few corners and dominated the first 20 minutes. We slowly got out and started to settle into the game and felt we got control after that for the rest of the half. We had a few half chances and started to win the midfield battle and I thought we ended up the half as the better side despite the early chance and their fast start. The second half they began well again and had the Windass chance but we scored against the run of play. After this the game became scrappy and not sure either side created much at all.



There were lots of subs, bookings and the game became very stop start but that suited us, with us leading. They did not threaten at all until the late Cooper save and one hit over the bar. In the end, we got it over the line. It was not a fluent performance again but a clean sheet where the keeper and defence were solid. I felt we did not keep the ball enough and needed to be more patient and the key forward players kind of got crowded out. We saw bits and pieces from the likes of O’Hare, BBD and Campbell and that was what was frustrating as I felt when we did break and got our better athletes and footballers forward, we could have had more opportunities. However, after we got the first goal, it was just about seeing it out and after the throwaway in the week, we did that. I am not sure Wednesday pushed us back like Bristol City did and for all the talk about how they might physically overpower us (I felt that!), it did not happen. It became a scrappy game and in the end, we did what we have done so many times this season- we find a moment of quality (Peck and Campbell) to get the first goal and then see it out.



Rohl was banging on about them coming back from deficits and we have not done that. These comments were nonsensical as we have led so many games so do not have to come back! In the end not sure they really threw the kitchen sink at us, after we scored. Of course, they maybe could have got a draw but there is a reason why we are at the top and they are mid table as we are more ruthless and clinical and edge the tight games more often than not. I was delighted to beat that lot of course and do the double but the bigger picture is, we had been overhauled and were own into third place, so had to respond. It looks like it is going to go down to the wire and we may have to win 6 or 7 of our last 8 and avoid defeat at Burnley, to go up. Coventry feels a big game after the break as they are on form and we need to put in a Boro/Leeds (for an hour) type performance to get the victory and then we have games v Oxford, Plymouth, Millwall and Cardiff, which we would look at and think there are lots of points we can get (if we are serious about promotion). It feels like it is all set up for the Burnley game to be a winner takes all but Leeds have wobbled a bit recently with 2 draws from last 3 games and oddly we have gained on them since they beat us, when I thought they would push away and be well clear by this point. They must think they are by far the best team but us and Burnley seem to be not going away at all.



Away from the promotion race, a win at Hillsborough and a derby double is a day/feat to simply enjoy. I went out for a bit (on a school night!) after, despite being away from it all for the game – I kind of jumped on the bandwagon (see below) as it is not often you win there (they never seem to win at ours – the Tudgay one under Blackwell, the only one in my lifetime at the Lane) but we have done it 5 times now I believe since the 90’s which they can only dream of!? The city is truly ours regardless of whether we go up or not and we have to enjoy these moments – it was not a vintage performance or not scintillating but no one cares. These games are all about winning and we have taken both! They have to go a long way back to have enjoyed a win (13 years – O’Grady I believe) against us and quite a while since they scored (Joao) in a derby game and I believe it is now 5 games since they found the net against us.



Ratings:



Cooper 7.5/10 – The big save from the Smith header. It was straight at him but he had to make it. He made another save late on from Johnson but being critical I think if they had scored he may have been disappointed to push it out to an incoming player. Outside of this, his handling was immaculate and we saw the other end, his counterpart maybe could have done better on our goal. A superb signing for us and plays consistently well most games.



Seriki 6.5/10 - Thought he did some good things going forward and at least took the ball on and made them think about things going the other way. Gassama is an obvious threat but I think he only beat him once. Did get booked after he overrun the ball. Overall, he did ok in such a big game, for someone who is still relatively inexperienced. I do think he gives us pace, mobility and athleticism which help us get up the pitch.



Burrows 6/10 – Did ok defensively but we did not see too much of him the other way, other than the one cross shot that just evaded Campbell – this was a great ball. He was able to keep his shape though and make us nice and compact. I am not sure he could chance going forward too much with the threats they had down the sides.



Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – Thought he was really composed and calm all game. The late booking apart (which he kind of had to take), he was never really at full stretch and played the game sensibly. Smith did win that one header, when he got in between him and Robinson, but outside of this and the late one that broke, not sure they won too many headers or had clear chances.



Robinson 6.5/10 –As above, competed well and won tackles/blocks. He started a bit off as they put a few balls in but grew into it and then won his fair share. At the end got beat once on the late chances but overall they did not really run through the middle too much.



Choudhury 6.5/10 – I thought he dd his job today. He is not flash but kept it nice and simple and moved it on when he could but his defensive work was really good. He got back to make a number of blocks and interceptions. He may not stand out like Souza, in terms of ground coverage but I thought quietly he had a decent game and not sure Bannan and Charles every had proper control for a home side.



Peck 6/10 –As above. Did what he had to. He was involved in the goal with a nice drag back and pass. A few give aways and at times lost his shape a bit but kept going and never hid. We forget it is his first full season and again he was not overawed.



Brereton Diaz 6/10 – He got involved in the daft stuff early – he did have the ball fired at him to be fair and maybe a bit unlucky to be booked? After this he had a few moments down the right where he caused problems for the full back Hatsuse and maybe should have done better with a few cross shots. He then went in high second half and you worry the ref may react – I am not sure he should have been booked first half as I say. After this he sort of faded a bit but played nearly the entire game.



Hamer 6/10 – Some nice flicks and ball through and when he got it, you felt something may happen but did not get on it enough or have enough of an influence. I felt the game became scrappy and sort of bypassed midfield for periods. I still always thought when we had decent moves, he was often the one probing but he needs to start getting on the ball more. Did work back though when he had to.



Brewster 7/10 – Gets extra mark for the goal! Was on the spot and read the ball across. Outside of this he had a few shots blocked and buzzed around but not that involved but he did work hard and harry and press when he could. Will go down in folklore as a derby match winner and after his difficult spell at the club, no matter what happens now (even if he does move on when his contract expires) he will always have that moment. We all remember the Bannon honking comment so shoved that back down his throat today. Lovely to see him celebrating at the end. He has never really paid off his transfer fee or got close and had bad luck with injuries but no one can say he does not care and he seems to love playing for the club and gets the ethos. His big smile at full time certainly was evidence to this feeling!



Campbell 7/10 – Looked our liveliest forward in terms of his movement and touch/play. He had a few half chances, one pulled wide and nearly got on the Burrows cross but he then made the run and cross that led to the goal as he left Ihiekwe in the dust. He is our best and most dangerous forward at the moment.



Subs –



Cannon – At this stage, game was not really having many chances although had one when we broke but got muscled out. Still needs to do more at times and at least pressure the opposition.



McCallum – Strange cameo. Got around the pitch but wasteful when he did have it. Gave it away at the end that led to the late corner for them.



O’Hare – Helped us run a few balls out to the corner flag and down the side.



Holding – Brought on at the end and won a few headers as we saw it out.



Manager: Wilder 8/10 – 8 seems high as the performance was not dominant but any Blades manager to win at Hillsborough will go down in history. Joins Warnock and Bassett as derby double winners in my lifetime! He will have heard some odd comments from Rohl pre game and that I am sure will have fired him up (he after all built the side that earned the right to sell players on for a profit and buy others for the £125 million the opposition manager describes – not sure the starting team was anywhere near that today though!). He is right, we have had to come back from some difficult times (League One for 6 years and then last season’s debacle). To rebuild the side, lower the average age, deal with multiple injuries, and keep pace with two other sides who seem to win almost every week – is hugely down to the winning mentality and spirit he had forged again. Today, we were not amazing but got the win and did what we had to – in our rivals back yard. It meant so much to him as we saw post-game and in the hotel. This was of course, more than a vital win in the race for promotion but bragging rights for the season in terms of getting it over our city foes, not just once, but twice!





Wednesday – I thought after the two away wins in the last week and the injuries/draw we had; they might edge it today. I am not afraid to say that after the event. I perhaps should have just looked at the table and had more confidence but I am naturally a pessimist I admit. I hate the derbies and would unashamedly take draws in all of them.



We have, of course been on a long winning streak away from home. They have had the same at home – but the other way. It was worried about the law of averages etc and I was concerned about the physical threats they had at the top of the pitch. They did begin well but missed a decent chance. After this, we grew into it and thought we got on top and had the other decent chances of the half. I felt we had weathered the early storm and then came out and got on top but they came again 2nd half and had the Windass chance – which was similar to the one Burrows made for Campbell – where both could have gone in. They seemed to be the better side before we got the goal which was simple but really poor defending and they just switched off really.



After this, they threw men on and there were lots of changes but only the one really good chance where it fell for the sub who spooned it over. It was probably a harder chance than it looked to be fair. They had a few late corners/throws but they failed to score and lost again at home. After a mixed bag of results yesterday, they may have felt a win today and they were back in the playoff mix. The defeat today means it is unlikely they will get into the playoffs I feel – there is too many teams/traffic between them and 6th despite their run in being favourable.



Rohl talked a good game pre game but felt he got drawn into the Wilder thing a bit and maybe it threw him a little – the comments about the 125 million and the 1-0 comebacks were bizarre really considering the two respective positions in the league. He talked a lot in November about the Wilder pub scenes and looking forward to it but in the end, they lost again ultimately. He may have been right, that there was little between the two sides – maybe in both games but the good sides (like us) win the close games and that is why we are at the top and they are nowhere near. It’s about what you do in both boxes and Wilder’s stats comment is bang on. Football is about winning.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out hugely for either side to be fair so I am struggling to name many players who were that great – Cooper for us made a few big saves. Smith was a handful and thought the lad Valentin got up an down well but there were a lot of ordinary performances for both sides in a scrappy game. Gassama is a handful down the side and had a few decent runs but we got men around him quite well.



Opponent Weak Link – Ihiekwe won a few headers going forward – on set plays but no idea what he is doing on the goal – just lets Campbell run past him unopposed. Beadle also needs to get a stronger hand to it I feel. I was not that impressed by Charles (again). I am happy with Arblaster and Peck (both our players too) in these positions and considering we had three proven midfield starters in Souza, Arblaster and Davies out – Wednesday never really had control of this area. Bannan was poor throughout and lacks pace/mobility to play higher up the league for me. He is a good ball player but better sides/athletes run round/past him.



Referee/Officials – Kitchen. Another young ref given a derby and did ok. Yes, he booked a few for both sides but bit sure there were any major decisions he got wrong for me. Both teams lost their cool a few times but he reffed it sensibly.



Post match – Went to the clubhouse after the game for a bit and some good scenes in there but then went to the hotel at the ground. Wilder was in, with his wife, Wit and Steve Cowens etc. No Sausage Rohl chant but he did have a few songs and was enjoying himself. A number of players/officials came in and were mobbed (Peck, BBD, Hamer, Cooper, Lester etc). Place was packed and jumping and was some great scenes with players and fans alike. Saw Callum McFadzean (now at Chezzy) having a few beers and it was just really good scenes. Wilder’s wife was loving it! I left as knew I had work tomorrow but was still lively when we went home!

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Think we dodged a bullet if we were serious about signing Charles. Lazy, weak, slow, pretty much perfect for the Pigs.

 

[Yellarbellyblade]

I thought that was one of the better refereeing performances for a while. Stayed pretty calm and managed to not get too wound up when stuff started to kick off a bit.
Over the piece two pretty poor games as is more often the case than not in derby games but we found a way to win both. What’s not to like

 

[Karaoke Blade]

I thought that was one of the better refereeing performances for a while. Stayed pretty calm and managed to not get too wound up when stuff started to kick off a bit.
Over the piece two pretty poor games as is more often the case than not in derby games but we found a way to win both. What’s not to like

Yes, fair play to the ref, he did very well.

 

[Tarqs]

Feel same about shea charles. For a 20m player, not sure what he does

 

[Deadbat]

United – Today was all about the result, as was the first one at the Lane. After Leeds/Burnley have picked up vital wins since our late heartache against Bristol City, it was more than just beating them lot too. In the end, it was a huge three points and regardless of what kind of game it was, it was all about the bragging rights and we got it again. Any derby double is rare so we have to enjoy it. The game itself was poor. I was worried when Souza was out, as with us of course not having Souttar, I felt their physical strength and big men (picked Paterson, Smith and Iorfa) they may cause us problems but in the end, they did have a few chances but it was an even game lacking much quality throughout. They had more opportunities than they had at the Lane and of course the Smith header, Windass block and the late one over the bar were arguable better than any we had, outside the goal but we did have some of our own via Campell and Brereton Diaz.



The game was not helped by a dreadful pitch which saw the ball bobbling all over the place and the Owls certainly came out quickly and had the Smith chance, a few corners and dominated the first 20 minutes. We slowly got out and started to settle into the game and felt we got control after that for the rest of the half. We had a few half chances and started to win the midfield battle and I thought we ended up the half as the better side despite the early chance and their fast start. The second half they began well again and had the Windass chance but we scored against the run of play. After this the game became scrappy and not sure either side created much at all.



There were lots of subs, bookings and the game became very stop start but that suited us, with us leading. They did not threaten at all until the late Cooper save and one hit over the bar. In the end, we got it over the line. It was not a fluent performance again but a clean sheet where the keeper and defence were solid. I felt we did not keep the ball enough and needed to be more patient and the key forward players kind of got crowded out. We saw bits and pieces from the likes of O’Hare, BBD and Campbell and that was what was frustrating as I felt when we did break and got our better athletes and footballers forward, we could have had more opportunities. However, after we got the first goal, it was just about seeing it out and after the throwaway in the week, we did that. I am not sure Wednesday pushed us back like Bristol City did and for all the talk about how they might physically overpower us (I felt that!), it did not happen. It became a scrappy game and in the end, we did what we have done so many times this season- we find a moment of quality (Peck and Campbell) to get the first goal and then see it out.



Rohl was banging on about them coming back from deficits and we have not done that. These comments were nonsensical as we have led so many games so do not have to come back! In the end not sure they really threw the kitchen sink at us, after we scored. Of course, they maybe could have got a draw but there is a reason why we are at the top and they are mid table as we are more ruthless and clinical and edge the tight games more often than not. I was delighted to beat that lot of course and do the double but the bigger picture is, we had been overhauled and were own into third place, so had to respond. It looks like it is going to go down to the wire and we may have to win 6 or 7 of our last 8 and avoid defeat at Burnley, to go up. Coventry feels a big game after the break as they are on form and we need to put in a Boro/Leeds (for an hour) type performance to get the victory and then we have games v Oxford, Plymouth, Millwall and Cardiff, which we would look at and think there are lots of points we can get (if we are serious about promotion). It feels like it is all set up for the Burnley game to be a winner takes all but Leeds have wobbled a bit recently with 2 draws from last 3 games and oddly we have gained on them since they beat us, when I thought they would push away and be well clear by this point. They must think they are by far the best team but us and Burnley seem to be not going away at all.



Away from the promotion race, a win at Hillsborough and a derby double is a day/feat to simply enjoy. I went out for a bit (on a school night!) after, despite being away from it all for the game – I kind of jumped on the bandwagon (see below) as it is not often you win there (they never seem to win at ours – the Tudgay one under Blackwell, the only one in my lifetime at the Lane) but we have done it 5 times now I believe since the 90’s which they can only dream of!? The city is truly ours regardless of whether we go up or not and we have to enjoy these moments – it was not a vintage performance or not scintillating but no one cares. These games are all about winning and we have taken both! They have to go a long way back to have enjoyed a win (13 years – O’Grady I believe) against us and quite a while since they scored (Joao) in a derby game and I believe it is now 5 games since they found the net against us.



Ratings:



Cooper 7.5/10 – The big save from the Smith header. It was straight at him but he had to make it. He made another save late on from Johnson but being critical I think if they had scored he may have been disappointed to push it out to an incoming player. Outside of this, his handling was immaculate and we saw the other end, his counterpart maybe could have done better on our goal. A superb signing for us and plays consistently well most games.



Seriki 6.5/10 - Thought he did some good things going forward and at least took the ball on and made them think about things going the other way. Gassama is an obvious threat but I think he only beat him once. Did get booked after he overrun the ball. Overall, he did ok in such a big game, for someone who is still relatively inexperienced. I do think he gives us pace, mobility and athleticism which help us get up the pitch.



Burrows 6/10 – Did ok defensively but we did not see too much of him the other way, other than the one cross shot that just evaded Campbell – this was a great ball. He was able to keep his shape though and make us nice and compact. I am not sure he could chance going forward too much with the threats they had down the sides.



Ahmedhodzic 7/10 – Thought he was really composed and calm all game. The late booking apart (which he kind of had to take), he was never really at full stretch and played the game sensibly. Smith did win that one header, when he got in between him and Robinson, but outside of this and the late one that broke, not sure they won too many headers or had clear chances.



Robinson 6.5/10 –As above, competed well and won tackles/blocks. He started a bit off as they put a few balls in but grew into it and then won his fair share. At the end got beat once on the late chances but overall they did not really run through the middle too much.



Choudhury 6.5/10 – I thought he dd his job today. He is not flash but kept it nice and simple and moved it on when he could but his defensive work was really good. He got back to make a number of blocks and interceptions. He may not stand out like Souza, in terms of ground coverage but I thought quietly he had a decent game and not sure Bannan and Charles every had proper control for a home side.



Peck 6/10 –As above. Did what he had to. He was involved in the goal with a nice drag back and pass. A few give aways and at times lost his shape a bit but kept going and never hid. We forget it is his first full season and again he was not overawed.



Brereton Diaz 6/10 – He got involved in the daft stuff early – he did have the ball fired at him to be fair and maybe a bit unlucky to be booked? After this he had a few moments down the right where he caused problems for the full back Hatsuse and maybe should have done better with a few cross shots. He then went in high second half and you worry the ref may react – I am not sure he should have been booked first half as I say. After this he sort of faded a bit but played nearly the entire game.



Hamer 6/10 – Some nice flicks and ball through and when he got it, you felt something may happen but did not get on it enough or have enough of an influence. I felt the game became scrappy and sort of bypassed midfield for periods. I still always thought when we had decent moves, he was often the one probing but he needs to start getting on the ball more. Did work back though when he had to.



Brewster 7/10 – Gets extra mark for the goal! Was on the spot and read the ball across. Outside of this he had a few shots blocked and buzzed around but not that involved but he did work hard and harry and press when he could. Will go down in folklore as a derby match winner and after his difficult spell at the club, no matter what happens now (even if he does move on when his contract expires) he will always have that moment. We all remember the Bannon honking comment so shoved that back down his throat today. Lovely to see him celebrating at the end. He has never really paid off his transfer fee or got close and had bad luck with injuries but no one can say he does not care and he seems to love playing for the club and gets the ethos. His big smile at full time certainly was evidence to this feeling!



Campbell 7/10 – Looked our liveliest forward in terms of his movement and touch/play. He had a few half chances, one pulled wide and nearly got on the Burrows cross but he then made the run and cross that led to the goal as he left Ihiekwe in the dust. He is our best and most dangerous forward at the moment.



Subs –



Cannon – At this stage, game was not really having many chances although had one when we broke but got muscled out. Still needs to do more at times and at least pressure the opposition.



McCallum – Strange cameo. Got around the pitch but wasteful when he did have it. Gave it away at the end that led to the late corner for them.



O’Hare – Helped us run a few balls out to the corner flag and down the side.



Holding – Brought on at the end and won a few headers as we saw it out.



Manager: Wilder 8/10 – 8 seems high as the performance was not dominant but any Blades manager to win at Hillsborough will go down in history. Joins Warnock and Bassett as derby double winners in my lifetime! He will have heard some odd comments from Rohl pre game and that I am sure will have fired him up (he after all built the side that earned the right to sell players on for a profit and buy others for the £125 million the opposition manager describes – not sure the starting team was anywhere near that today though!). He is right, we have had to come back from some difficult times (League One for 6 years and then last season’s debacle). To rebuild the side, lower the average age, deal with multiple injuries, and keep pace with two other sides who seem to win almost every week – is hugely down to the winning mentality and spirit he had forged again. Today, we were not amazing but got the win and did what we had to – in our rivals back yard. It meant so much to him as we saw post-game and in the hotel. This was of course, more than a vital win in the race for promotion but bragging rights for the season in terms of getting it over our city foes, not just once, but twice!





Wednesday – I thought after the two away wins in the last week and the injuries/draw we had; they might edge it today. I am not afraid to say that after the event. I perhaps should have just looked at the table and had more confidence but I am naturally a pessimist I admit. I hate the derbies and would unashamedly take draws in all of them.



We have, of course been on a long winning streak away from home. They have had the same at home – but the other way. It was worried about the law of averages etc and I was concerned about the physical threats they had at the top of the pitch. They did begin well but missed a decent chance. After this, we grew into it and thought we got on top and had the other decent chances of the half. I felt we had weathered the early storm and then came out and got on top but they came again 2nd half and had the Windass chance – which was similar to the one Burrows made for Campbell – where both could have gone in. They seemed to be the better side before we got the goal which was simple but really poor defending and they just switched off really.



After this, they threw men on and there were lots of changes but only the one really good chance where it fell for the sub who spooned it over. It was probably a harder chance than it looked to be fair. They had a few late corners/throws but they failed to score and lost again at home. After a mixed bag of results yesterday, they may have felt a win today and they were back in the playoff mix. The defeat today means it is unlikely they will get into the playoffs I feel – there is too many teams/traffic between them and 6th despite their run in being favourable.



Rohl talked a good game pre game but felt he got drawn into the Wilder thing a bit and maybe it threw him a little – the comments about the 125 million and the 1-0 comebacks were bizarre really considering the two respective positions in the league. He talked a lot in November about the Wilder pub scenes and looking forward to it but in the end, they lost again ultimately. He may have been right, that there was little between the two sides – maybe in both games but the good sides (like us) win the close games and that is why we are at the top and they are nowhere near. It’s about what you do in both boxes and Wilder’s stats comment is bang on. Football is about winning.



Opponent Man of the Match – No one really stood out hugely for either side to be fair so I am struggling to name many players who were that great – Cooper for us made a few big saves. Smith was a handful and thought the lad Valentin got up an down well but there were a lot of ordinary performances for both sides in a scrappy game. Gassama is a handful down the side and had a few decent runs but we got men around him quite well.



Opponent Weak Link – Ihiekwe won a few headers going forward – on set plays but no idea what he is doing on the goal – just lets Campbell run past him unopposed. Beadle also needs to get a stronger hand to it I feel. I was not that impressed by Charles (again). I am happy with Arblaster and Peck (both our players too) in these positions and considering we had three proven midfield starters in Souza, Arblaster and Davies out – Wednesday never really had control of this area. Bannan was poor throughout and lacks pace/mobility to play higher up the league for me. He is a good ball player but better sides/athletes run round/past him.



Referee/Officials – Kitchen. Another young ref given a derby and did ok. Yes, he booked a few for both sides but bit sure there were any major decisions he got wrong for me. Both teams lost their cool a few times but he reffed it sensibly.



Post match – Went to the clubhouse after the game for a bit and some good scenes in there but then went to the hotel at the ground. Wilder was in, with his wife, Wit and Steve Cowens etc. No Sausage Rohl chant but he did have a few songs and was enjoying himself. A number of players/officials came in and were mobbed (Peck, BBD, Hamer, Cooper, Lester etc). Place was packed and jumping and was some great scenes with players and fans alike. Saw Callum McFadzean (now at Chezzy) having a few beers and it was just really good scenes. Wilder’s wife was loving it! I left as knew I had work tomorrow but was still lively when we went home!

Burrows probably deserves an extra 0.5 for the block on the Windass effort. Big moment that although Cooper probably gets it watching it back.

 

[Addison]

Big big result. Derbys are nearly always scruffy affairs. Duffy and Bobby Davison days are rare.

Without the influence of Souza we stood up to their bullying, niggles and attempts to disrupt our game on a shocker of a pitch. Expected more from them but apart from 2 periods at the start of each half they rarely troubled us. Smiths header was straight at Cooper and the only real chance we gave them was at the end. Agree Cooper would have been disappointed if his push out had led to a goal. Thought Anel was immense at the back and Seriki's pace gave us an outlet. Campbell just gets better with each game he pulled them all over the place and rightly gets an assist for the goal.

It wasn't pretty but we grind out results and lesser teams would have wilted in a volatile atmosphere that all but evaporated after our goal. The team grew in stature when a lot of pundits were tipping an upset. We maintain our momentum. Just read Weeds and Burnleys forums they were expecting us to dip and they are now becoming nervous at our ability to keep getting 3 points. It will go to the wire and the team that keeps its nerve will get over the line. SISU next has now become another big game and having Souza back will be a big bonus.

The result has lifted everyone the club, the players, the coaching staff and the supporters We made a big step forward today imo. We showed up for a big game, did the double over our rivals setting a record of not conceding a goal over 2 games for the first time in 112 years.

SUFC 45 league wins SWFC 36.

The pub league team continue to confound the massiv. How dare a team in Pig Folklore who pinched their ground, their nickname their colours and was created by one of them be actually better overall in every aspect.

 

[MayorOJC]

Bit harsh on Cooper! Can't always direct a save, sometimes all you can do is get a hand to it.

 

[coaxingstar71]

I thought we stood up to them really well considering their main tactic appeared to be to kick us off the park.

 

[bruce]

It is indeed 5 consecutive games in which they have failed to score against us. I would imagine that is a new Sheffield record.

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

In terms of going forwards Seriki was outstanding today. Arguably offered more in attack down the right than Diaz did. His emergence could make the difference between playoffs and autos over the next 8 games.

I was shitting it after seeing Souza was out of the squad and both O'Hare and Rak-Sakyi were benched, and the first 25 minutes did nothing to calm those nerves. We weathered that early storm and gained composure. Great work by Campbell for the goal and happy to see Brewster have a moment of glory after such a torrid time with us. They missed a sitter at the end which will haunt them for years to come haha.

Top support from all the Blades in the away end, apart from their drum I barely heard a peep out of them, horrific support from the MASSIVE. I remember in the Summer after relegation I was dreading these games, doing the double over them is absolutely fantastic. I didn't see it coming and it makes me wonder what other surprising achievement Wilder could be capable of this season.... 1st place? 2nd? or holyfuckinghshit... WEMBLEY win?

COYRAWW!

 

[blader]

.

 

[Frank the tank]

In terms of going forwards Seriki was outstanding today. Arguably offered more in attack down the right than Diaz did. His emergence could make the difference between playoffs and autos over the next 8 games.

I was shitting it after seeing Souza was out of the squad and both O'Hare and Rak-Sakyi were benched, and the first 25 minutes did nothing to calm those nerves. We weathered that early storm and gained composure. Great work by Campbell for the goal and happy to see Brewster have a moment of glory after such a torrid time with us. They missed a sitter at the end which will haunt them for years to come haha.

Top support from all the Blades in the away end, apart from their drum I barely heard a peep out of them, horrific support from the MASSIVE. I remember in the Summer after relegation I was dreading these games, doing the double over them is absolutely fantastic. I didn't see it coming and it makes me wonder what other surprising achievement Wilder could be capable of this season.... 1st place? 2nd? or holyfuckinghshit... WEMBLEY win?

COYRAWW!

You've changed your fucking tune

 

[McGrath]

I think Peck and Choudary were 8s. In a game like that you have to stop the opposition and be top dog in midfield and we were.

Seriki was targeted by them early on, they seemed to think he might be a weak link. But It thought he stood up to them well. Once again he was a threat going forward.

Their pitch was awful. It contributed to some poor football. I'm surprised it doesn't cause injuries

 

[originaltrueblade]

Cooper 7.5 your having a laugh ….more like 9

 

[Tony_Kaufman]

I was swearing at McCallum at the end when we conceded the corner at the end of the match. The pass to him was simple and he had all day to come for it, but he stood there and waited static for it to come to him and this led to us losing possession and conceding a corner. Given how long he had been on the pitch that was poor.

 

[Tony_Kaufman]

I'd agree with most of your scores except for Seriki, I thought he was poor yesterday. He was often chasing the player he was supposed to be marking, Patterson got the better of him a couple of times and going forward he was largely ineffective. I thought this was his worst performance for us this season. He just didn't seem as switched on and kept reacting instead of anticipating.

 

[Frank the tank]

I'd agree with most of your scores except for Seriki, I thought he was poor yesterday. He was often chasing the player he was supposed to be marking, Patterson got the better of him a couple of times and going forward he was largely ineffective. I thought this was his worst performance for us this season. He just didn't seem as switched on and kept reacting instead of anticipating.

That only makes sense if you think we were man for man and the full back doesn't attempt to get involved going forward

 

[Selly]

Reflecting back, yesterdays performance was horrendously professional.

The best general comparison I can make is when you were watching Man U away at Liverpool in the 90's thinking that this could be a cracker - Liverpool, not a stellar team at the time, could turn them over etc.

And then Man U weather the pressure, the game is a bit drab, and then nick a goal from the only real clear cut chance all afternoon.

The watching neutral is disappointed as they were hoping for an end to end 3-2 in either direction - or for Manu U to get a bloody nose -but when you look back very few "big" games are like that.

 

[Bladesman]

I thought that was one of the better refereeing performances for a while. Stayed pretty calm and managed to not get too wound up when stuff started to kick off a bit.
Over the piece two pretty poor games as is more often the case than not in derby games but we found a way to win both. What’s not to like

I thought the card needed to come out earlier with the amount of times they kept leaving one on us.

 

[The Vicar]

Confession time: I did not watch the game, either in person, or on TV. Terrible I know! Not getting tickets and knowing how nervous I would be watching on TV with my family – I made the decision to get away from it all!



I went on a 40-mile bike ride to Ladybower, Stanage Edge and back down Ringinglow. Switched my phone off and had no contact with the outside world! Yes, I bottled it but took the pressure off. I put my phone on at 2.20pm and saw it was 0-1 with stoppage time left. I let out a huge, ‘f*****g get in!’ and then popped my phone away until I got up the hill to Burbage and checked again to see it was FT before more exclamations and rang the family on a video call! After the game I went down to the Clubhouse and then the hotel and saw several players and Wilder too and had a few pints. Felt a bit of an imposter after not seeing the game but I find them so stressful so it was nice tootling into the Peaks with no idea of what was happening! I have now watched the game back and so below is my account….I know shameless to not watch but I am not a good TV watcher of such games so just thought I’d get away and then enjoy it all after. If we had lost, you may not have got the below of course!

I am exactly the same! Anxiety levels go through the roof watching on tv or listening live, it’s absolute agony and no joy at all. Better to just find out the result after the game has finished. Although saying that the game against BC on Tuesday was no easy watch.

 

[N20 Blade]

Think we dodged a bullet if we were serious about signing Charles. Lazy, weak, slow, pretty much perfect for the Pigs.

I like Choudhury. He breaks the game up very well.

 

[Yellarbellyblade]

I thought the card needed to come out earlier with the amount of times they kept leaving one on us.

Possibly but at the same time I hate card happy refs so part of me is ok letting them both get on with it.

 

[N20 Blade]

Great analysis Deadbat my only reflection is Cooper. It wasn't just the saves, but the assurance he provides the defence in front of him. He is just so solid, reliable and calm. He does the basics and so well.

Imagine if Leeds had Cooper. And we had theirs. They would be 20 points clear.

 

[Servigliano]

I thought the card needed to come out earlier with the amount of times they kept leaving one on us.

They certainly tried to foul/obstruct Peck every time he got near the ball.
He had the last laugh though with that wonderful spin and pass - which left 3 of them for dead opening up their defence on the left which Campbell exploited. The rest of their defence was dragged to Campbell and the ball - leaving two or three of us unmarked in the box near the 6 yard box and... .... Brewster!!!

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

You've changed your fucking tune

Lets see if I can stay positive after next home performance

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

I'd agree with most of your scores except for Seriki, I thought he was poor yesterday. He was often chasing the player he was supposed to be marking, Patterson got the better of him a couple of times and going forward he was largely ineffective. I thought this was his worst performance for us this season. He just didn't seem as switched on and kept reacting instead of anticipating.

You clearly aren't giving any merit to his attacking play, he was an absolute menace.

 

[Sheffsteel]

Deadbat,

If you didn’t watch it.

Basically it was like a cup tie between a league 1 team and a PL team.

Wednesday played like a really good league 1 team trying mainly long ball tactics.

They had 3 or 4 half chances and couldn’t score with Cooper making some good saves.

United looked like a poor Premier league playing in 2nd gear. We didn’t create as many chances but you could see we had players of far higher quality.

What people don’t seem to realise is if Brewster hadn’t scored that goal. We’d have continued to pile on the pressure hunting for the break through, so we were always going to score.

Once we did score we did our usual trick of being conservative sitting back but we defended well and like in the 1st match any neutral would say we just about deserved to win.

 

[Camden Blade]

I thought it was a scrappy game but all recent derbies have been apart from the mullering we gave them on Bouncing Day. The one moment of quality was the goal. Campbell is a class player. Ghosted the defender like he wasn't there. A tad fortunate with the deflection but he got to the byline and crossed it. And that was the difference. And we were solid at the back with Cooper a candidate for PoTS. The atmosphere came across quite muted on TV. The stadium wasn't bouncing. Maybe they've learned their lesson. I'm glad it's out of the way.