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…
9. Iliman Ndiaye 5
Full of direct running and trickery in a bid to open up the Derby defence, but couldn't make it happen. Looked to be in on goal after a good pass from Bogle but his touch took him away from goal rather than towards it. Photo: Simon Bellis
10. David McGoldrick 4
No shortage of industry or invention but no end product on a frustrating afternoon for the Blades striker. Made way for Brewster with 20 to go Photo: Simon Bellis
11. Billy Sharp 4
Had the chance of the game from a Blades perspective in the first half, when a long throw was flicked on to him at the back post but he planted his header straight at Allsop in the Derby goal. Gave Derby's fans some back at the final whistle - and quite rightly too - after their disgusting chants in his direction Photo: Simon Bellis
