The Blades got themselves up and running on the road in 2020 with a richly-deserved point at Arsenal today.
Chris Wilder’s men put in a fine first-half display and were unlucky to go into the break 1-0 down. Gabriel Martinelli tapped home on the line after a deflected cross outwitted Dean Henderson.
John Fleck got the equaliser for Sheffield United at Arsenal. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
A much-improved Gunners display in the second period threatened to see their lead increased. However, Chris Wilder’s men weathered the storm and the Blades boss made some bold substitutions in the final half an hour.
And those subs paid off. Callum Robinson floated a ball in which Billy Sharp kept alive, allowing John Fleck to rifle in a volley into the top corner to make it 1-1.
SAKA, ANTONY AND 10 PREMIER LEAGUE STARS HEADING TO THEIR FIRST WORLD CUP
The Blades looked the most likely following that equaliser. Oli McBurnie, then Fleck again, and Mo Besic all went close before Mike Dean finally blew for full-time.
It was a deserved away point for the Blades and a performance which contained a number of excellent performances.
Here’s how we rated the Sheffield United players at Arsenal today.
Dean Henderson – 7
Had little to do in terms of shot-stopping but did what he had to do well enough.
George Baldock – 8
Full of life and running down the right. Lured Granit Xhaka into a desperate lunge late on too.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 18: George Baldock of Sheffield United tackles with Bukayo Saka of Asenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Chris Basham – 7
Mr Dependable once again barely put a foot wrong. Having a superb season in the Premier League.
John Egan – 7
Like the rest of the back three, was superb. Marshalled Alexandre Lacazette all game and did well to block a dangerous cross at the death.
Jack O’Connell – 7
Was exceptional in the first-half before playing a bit more defensively in the second period. Solid as ever, though.
John Fleck – 9 (MOTM)
Running out of things to say about Fleck of late. Seems to get better and better and deservedly got himself another goal.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 18: John Fleck of Sheffield United celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium on January 18, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Oli Norwood – 7
Sat in the midfield and did very well considering his early booking. Crucial to how United play and some of his crosses were superb.
John Lundstram – 5
Once again, really below par. Could well be time for Lundstram to sit out with Mo Besic doing well off the bench once again.
Oli McBurnie – 8
Toiled and battled all day and worked hard up the top of the pitch. Could have perhaps done better with a late header and chance on the floor but still looked a threat for the Blades.
Lys Mousset – 6
Withdrawn after less than an hour and looked to be unfit for some reason. Needs to be doing more when starting games.
Subs
Billy Sharp – 7
Showed why Chris Wilder wants him to stay with hard-working cameo.
Callum Robinson – 6
Did little but impacted the game with the cross which led to the goal.
Mo Besic – 6
Nearly won it at the end with a well-taken strike from range.
