The Blades had some good early chances to go ahead in the Midlands, before a Daniel Podence brace – both gifted to him by defensive errors – and Nelson Semedo secured the hosts’ safe passage into the next round.
For the Blades it was a welcome return to action following their recent enforced period of inactivity, and a chance to get some much-needed game time into the legs of their players ahead of a busy second half of the season.
Here’s how our man Danny Hall rated the Blades’ players at Molineux.
9. Ben Osborn 6
Highlighted his versatility once again by switching from a central midfield/forward role to left wing-back at the break, and once again let no-one down. Full of energy and enthusiasm as ever Photo: Andrew Yates
10. David McGoldrick 6
Also enjoyed a good early opportunity but his header from Osborn's good left-wing cross went the wrong side of Ruddy's post. Looked to make things happen when he got on the ball before he was replaced by Burke Photo: Andrew Yates
11. Billy Sharp 6
Could have put the Blades ahead after just a few seconds after seizing on a stray pass from Ait-Nouri, but he fired wide of Ruddy's goal. Could have reduced the arrears with a well-struck volley from Burke's cross, but Ruddy pulled off a good save. Was replaced by Ndiaye in the second half Photo: Andrew Yates
12. SUBS Luke Freeman 5
Had a couple of good openings to run at the Wolves defence, but too often seemed to make the wrong decision - which may well be a symptom of his lack of games, more than anything Photo: Andrew Yates