Sheffield United took away a point from Villa Park as they drew 0-0 with Aston Villa as the Premier League made its return to the calendar.
However, it should have been all three for Chris Wilder’s men, with both goal-line technology and VAR seemingly not doing their job as Orjan Nyland spilt the ball over the line from Ollie Norwood’s delivery.
(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
The ball clearly crossed the line on all replays. But, to the shock and anger of Blades fans and management, Michael Oliver’s watch stayed silent and play continued. VAR failed to intervene, too, despite being available to do so.
In a game of few chances, it left a bitter taste in the mouth for United as they saw their Champions League push dented by the decision.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
On the performance side, there was little in the game. Dean Henderson made a few smart saves, while at the other end the Blades went closest via an Oli McBurnie header into Nyland’s arms.
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
With that, then, here’s our player ratings from site writer, Lee Connor, as the Blades drew 0-0 with Aston Villa.
Dean Henderson – 7
Probably the pick of the bunch for United. A couple of smart stops that he made look easy. Henderson is a must-get for United next season if we are to have similar success.
George Baldock – 5
Very quiet but was kept busy defensively by Jack Grealish. Overhit a few crossing attempts to sum up a poor night overall for everyone.
Chris Basham – 6
Usual dependable performance from Basham. Helped Baldock out and looked better when Lundstram was moved over to the right-hand side.
John Egan – 5
A surprisingly difficult night for Egan who seemed to struggle with the physical presence of Keinan Davis. Caught out of position a couple of times, too.
(Photo by Paul Ellis/Pool via Getty Images)
Jack Robinson – 7
Adapted very well on his Premier League debut for United and stepped in well for Jack O’Connell. The pressure was on, and Robinson handled it well.
Enda Stevens – 6
Like a lot of Blades, was relatively quiet. However, stuck to his tasks throughout and seemed to grow as the game went on.
Sander Berge – 4
A pretty anonymous performance from Berge, in honesty. We hate to be too critical on here but this was a poor showing. Given the benefit of the doubt before lockdown but must start to produce before the end of the season.
(Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)
John Lundstram – 6
Gave United energy and drive at times and seemed fully fit as the second-half went on. The Blades improved when he shifted to his natural inside right midfield position.
Ollie Norwood – 6
Quiet but assured display from Norwood. Put in the ball for what should have been the winning goal and was composed with the ball as usual.
Billy Sharp – 5
Lived off scraps in fairness but ran the channels and worked hard before being taken off for McGoldrick.
Oli McBurnie – 6
Once again, worked tirelessly up top before running out of steam a bit. Tough night against Tyrone Mings but gave as good as he got throughout.
Subs
McGoldrick, Mousset, and Luke Freeman all tried to change the game but to no avail. McGoldrick was the most effective, getting hold of the ball for United and making things tick. May fancy his chances of starting at Newcastle on Sunday.
