Sheffield United kept their fourth clean sheet in five games and stretched their unbeaten run to six games today with a hard-fought point at Huddersfield Town.
The Blades rode their luck at times but did have spells in the game where they dominated. Paul Heckingbottom had rung the changes, especially in midfield, and at times you could tell things were a tad disjointed. However, in the end, United remained solid enough to take a share of the spoils.
Heckingbottom will have been happy with some of the things he saw from his team. Not least, in defence, where his back three once again dealt well with what was a tricky Huddersfield attack. And key to that defensive performance, one again, was Jack Robinson.
Proving His Worth
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
A lot of Blades fans will admit they have criticised Jack Robinson at times, your writer here included. There have been occasions where the ex-Nottingham Forest man has just not looked up to it. Indeed, when Ben Davies was signed, the assumption was that Robinson could be done for.
However, Robinson has proven everyone wrong. United’s number 19 has delivered a number of fine performances of late and his latest effort at Huddersfield might be the pick of the bunch.
As well as being a dominating presence and bringing the ball out well, the stats back up Robinson’s excellent against The Terriers today. Per Whoscored.com, Robinson made a game high seven defensive clearances. He also made one crucial block, and showed confidence on the ball in making 79 passes with just shy of 80% accuracy.
Robinson also won three aerial duels. Interestingly, he also had the most touches of any Sheffield United player in the game at 98.
Rotation
The best thing about this Sheffield United squad is the strength in depth. So while Jack Robinson might have been superb today, there is every chance that Ben Davies comes back into the equation against Hull City.
Remarkably, we don’t seem to be any weaker regardless of who plays. Especially in terms of the defence.
All in all, things are looking positive for Hecky’s Blades. Another clean-sheet, another point against a promotion rival, and a winnable home game to come this midweek. By the end of February, United could very much be in the picture to go up automatically if all goes to plan.
