Sheffield United made it consecutive 1-0 wins over Crystal Palace this season with a hard-fought three points at Selhurst Park.
With the wind playing havoc, it was always going to be a scrappy affair. However, Wilf Zaha provided moments of quality for the home side, particularly in the first half. George Baldock, meanwhile, was lucky to be on the pitch after a number of fouls on the winger.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: Oli McBurnie of Sheffield United and John Egan of Sheffield United celebrate following their team’s victory in the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Sheffield United at Selhurst Park on February 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Copa/Getty Images)
Zaha though couldn’t muster up a match-winning moment and the teams went into the break level.
United came out the better side in the second period. But despite being improved, it was Palace who had the better chances, with Dean Henderson keeping out a couple of well-struck attempts.
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The Blades got their lead in fortunate circumstances on the hour. Goalkeeper, Vicente Guaita fumbled Ollie Norwood’s corner into his own net to give United the advantage.
From there, Chris Wilder’s men didn’t look back. They managed the game superbly well as the United boss brought on John Lundstram and Lys Mousset to give his side more impetus up top. It could have been more, too, as Enda Stevens went close twice and United broke with speed.
Here, then, are our player ratings following another superb Blades win.
Dean Henderson – 8
Superb showing from the Blades number one. Made a number of fine saves to keep Palace at bay.
George Baldock – 7
Made up for a torrid first-half with a disciplined showing in the second. Dealt with Zaha much better as the game went on.
Chris Basham – 7
Solid as ever from Basham despite sustaining a nasty gash to the head.
John Egan – 9 (MOTM)
Absolutely tremendous performance from the Irishman. Threw himself in front of everything and was back his very best.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: John Egan of Sheffield United celebrates his sides first goal which came through a Vicente Guaita of Crystal Palace own goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Sheffield United at Selhurst Park on February 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Jack O’Connell – 8
Like Egan, headed, blocked, and tackled everything in his path. An England call is surely on the horizon.
Enda Stevens – 8
Much more like it from the Irish wing-back. Unlucky not to score and was a real threat down the left-hand side for the Blades.
John Fleck – 7
Pretty quiet from the Scot but another disciplined performance in the middle of the park.
Ollie Norwood – 7
Grew into the game more in as the game wore on and opened up. Remains vital to the Blades’ system.
Sander Berge – 7
A solid display from the debutant. A couple of brilliant touches showed what he was about and he should be a superb addition.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: James McArthur of Crystal Palace is challenged by Sander Berge of Sheffield United during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Sheffield United at Selhurst Park on February 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Copa/Getty Images)
Billy Sharp – 7
Worked tirelessly and held the ball up well at times. Another excellent display on the whole to prove his worth.
Oli McBurnie – 8
Battled hard against two seasoned Premier League defenders. Was vital as the game wore on, winning a number of free-kicks to relieve the pressure.
Subs
John Lundstram – 7
A good display from Lundstram who now faces a fight to get back into the team with Berge’s arrival.
Lys Mousset – 7
Once again, a threat for the Blades. Always looks likely to do something and will score more as the season progresses.
