It took over 20 games and around six months, but Sheffield United finally got a win under their belts at Bristol Rovers yesterday.
Chris Wilder’s 100th win for United might well prove being one of his most important, despite it being against lower league opposition and in the FA Cup.
The win gives United something to build on and, in theory, should change the feeling and general aura around Shirecliffe in the coming days. In a nutshell, it’s amazing what that winning feeling can do for teams at any level.
Goals from Lys Mousset (albeit via the goalkeeper), Oliver Burke, and Jayden Bogle were enough for the Blades to win out 3-2 and see off a spirited effort from Paul Tisdale’s men.
But who impressed, and who didn’t quite get going again? Site writer Lee Connor gives his thoughts on proceedings, here.
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Aaron Ramsdale – 6
Ramsdale is still looking nervy but there was nothing major he did today what cost us as such. He did flap nervously at a cross or two, while he went walkies at one point in the second 45, too. But, in the main, he remained solid when needed.
Jayden Bogle – 8
A fine performance from Bogle who is giving Chris Wilder a headache he thought he might not have this season. Another goal capped it off for the summer signing to win the game for United.
Chris Basham – 6
Dedicated as ever if not a bit wasteful at times when venturing forward. Still, played a couple of positions and battled well on a tough, cold day.
John Egan – 6
Did ok but did struggle at times with the physical nature of Bristol’s striker, who seemed to cause a few problems when given the right service.
Ethan Ampadu – 5
Another underwhelming performance from the Chelsea loanee. Hasn’t seemed to really grasp any position he plays as yet and could struggle to keep his place going forward.
Ben Osborn – 8
A real threat throughout, especially in the first half, when he delivered a number of fine balls into the box. Pushing Enda Stevens now for a starting berth, whether Irishman is injured or not.
John Fleck – 6
Another quiet day in the main from Fleck but he did show one moment of quality to send Burke scampering away for his goal.
Ollie Norwood – 7
Norwood did well in the main. Controlled the game in the first half a lot before dipping a bit in the second. Still, he moved the ball well and offered a lot from midfielder.
John Lundstram – 6
Plenty of energy and graft from ‘Lunny’ but not quite at it after a few games out. Will hope for another chance against Newcastle on Tuesday, though.
David McGoldrick – 7
Once again, a lot of United’s good play came from McGoldrick and he as key in the final third, while also dropping deep to help out at times.
Lys Mousset – 6
Did well after a tough week for him on a personal level. Another 55 minutes or so in the tank should do him good, while he was unlucky to have a goal chalked off as well.
Subs
Oliver Burke – 7
A real handful when he came on and will be hoping to get the nod against Newcastle. Finally got his goal with a well-taken finish as well.
Kean Bryan – 6
Did his bit in defending near the end and will have been pleased to get some more action under his belt.