United were playing only their second league game since early December and it showed in a sluggish performance against the resurgent Rams, who moved off the bottom of the table in their bid to stay up this season despite a 21-point deduction.
United had the best chance of the first half, as Billy Sharp headed straight at Rams goalkeeper Ryan Allsop, but the Blades weren’t at the races in the second half as Lawrence’s double sealed three points for the home side.
Here’s how our man rated the Blades’ players at Pride Park…
Here’s how our man rated the Blades’ players at Pride Park…
5. Jack Robinson 4
Shook off his back injury to keep his place on the left of central defence and was solid enough, until he collided with a teammate in the build-up to Derby's second goal. Was taken off for Osborn as United switched to a back four
Photo: David Klein
6. Rhys Norrington-Davies 5
Tried to get forward as often as he could but struggled to get much change out of Byrne at right-back for Derby
Photo: Simon Bellis
7. Ollie Norwood 6
Saw plenty of the ball in the first half and used it intelligently, but couldn't exert as much influence in the second - although he was far from alone in that respect in a Blades shirt
Photo: Mark Thompson
8. Sander Berge 6
Kept his place in the side after making his return at Wolves and showed some good moments of composure on the ball, breaking through the lines with his long stride, but left the feeling there is so much more in him as he made way with 20 minutes or so to go
Photo: Simon Bellis