The Blades were held 1-1 by bottom club Watford yesterday as the Hornets’ revival under Nigel Pearson continued.
Ollie Norwood got the equalising goal for Chris Wilder’s men as they made it four unbeaten in December. However, it took a fightback from the Blades after Gerard Deulofeu had fired Watford ahead.
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 26: Oliver Norwood of Sheffield United scores a goal from a penalty kick to make it 1-1 during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Watford FC at Bramall Lane on December 26, 2019 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images)
In the end, a point was probably a fair result. Watford had the odd chance and frustrated United. On the other hand, the Blades were far from their scintillating best.
Next up for the Blades is a trip to Manchester City to face the champions. This is followed by a trip to Liverpool as United enter 2020 the hardest possible way. The performance level will need to be significantly raised if the Blades are to take anything from either of those games.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
On a dull, wet day at Bramall Lane, we gave our player ratings as Watford took a share of the spoils.
Dean Henderson – 6
At fault for the goal. Hesitant and made Deulofeu’s mind up for him. Will be disappointed and will know he must do better.
George Baldock – 7
Superb first-half display won the penalty but seemed to fizzle out somewhat in the second period. Still, one of United’s better players.
Chris Basham – 6
Did little wrong again and a couple of excellent first-half bursts nearly led to a goal for the Blades.
John Egan – 6
At fault for the goal too. Lost out in the air when fully committed and could do little to help recover the situation.
Jack O’Connell – 8 (MOTM)
But for some wayward crossing, O’Connell was excellent defensively. Dealt well with Sarr and then Pereyra in the second period.
SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 05: Jack O’Connell of Sheffield United in action during the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Newcastle United at Bramall Lane on December 5, 2019 in Sheffield, United Kingdom. (Photo by Visionhaus)
Enda Stevens – 7
Like Baldock, slowed down somewhat in the second half. However, showed tremendous energy throughout up and down the left.
John Fleck – 7
So unlucky not to score and showed some nice touches yet again. Might have influenced the game more late on but still did well.
Ollie Norwood – 6
Unusually wayward at times with some passing but still did well. Got his goal but was caught out a few times as were most Blades.
John Lundstram – 5
In the context of the team performance, Lundstram was below par. His quietest and least effective game of the season so far.
David McGoldrick – 6
Largely quiet and offered little in the way of a goal threat. The wait for a goal continues.
David McGoldrick was quiet for the Blades against Watford. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
Oli McBurnie – 6
Started the game really well and was denied by Foster’s brilliance. Looked a bit tired second half before being withdrawn.
Subs
Lys Mousset – 6
Almost immediate impact and showed signs of his pace again. Stifled by the excellent Kabasele at times.
Our view
This was by no means United’s greatest performance but there is no need to panic or worry.
The players and Chris Wilder both know it was below par. City away and Liverpool away are hardly ideal games, but it might give the club a breather in they are free-hits.
Four points from Brighton and Watford is not to be sniffed at either. Watford stifled the Blades and got a deserved 1-1 draw in the end.
