Sheffield United’s unbeaten start to the league season was ended this evening with a 2-0 defeat at the home of local rivals Leeds United. The Blades weathered the hosts’ storm in the first half before second-half goals from Pascal Struijk and sub Mateo Joseph sealed three points.
United did not offer enough attacking threat of their own on a night of real frustration as a jubilant home crowd savoured victory over their rivals in their own bid for promotion. Here’s how we rated United’s players on an evening that won’t live long in the memory of Unitedites...
1. Michael Cooper 5
Has not exactly been overworked since he arrived at Bramall Lane but he was tested here from early on, making a good stop down to his left to tip Ramazani's goalbound shot wide of his left hand post. Got away with a poor kick out a bit later - although Shackleton's pass back didn't exactly help him out - and left exposed, rarely, by those in front of him for Leeds' first and second goal, which he could do very little about | Getty Images
2. Jamie Shackleton 5
Given the nod over Alfie Gilchrist on his return to Elland Road as United changed shape but had a tough task up against Firpo and Gnonto as Leeds began brightly. Showed the odd moment of ambition going the other way but it was difficult given Leeds' dominance. Made way around the hour mark for Gilchrist | Sportimage
3. Anel Ahmedhodzic 5
Back on the right of a back three and got forward when he could to try and give United some attacking thrust, playing his part defensively too as the visitors kept Leeds at bay until Struijk's opener from a corner, which would have disappointed boss Wilder immensely Photo: George Wood
4. Harry Souttar 4.5
Commanding as ever in the middle of the back three and headed away everything Leeds threw at him, using his experience and defensive nous to get across and mop up so many times against the lively home threats. But couldn't do enough to prevent Struijk scoring for Leeds as he got across the United defence and finished past Cooper | Sportimage