Sheffield United surely put at least a few toes in the Championship play-off final later this month after winning 3-0 away at Bristol City in the first leg of their semi-final this evening. The Blades have to finish the job in Monday’s second leg but have certainly broken the back of the job here.
The Blades went into the game looking to banish a miserable previous record in the play-offs and thought they had made a dream start when Tyrese Campbell got to the ball ahead of City goalkeeper Max O’Leary to put them 1-0 ahead, before a late, late offside flag cut short the celebrations which were well under way - both on the pitch and in the away end.
City rallied and went close when Joe Williams’ thunderous effort rattled the Blades crossbar before another big referee decision altered the course of the game, with Rob Dickie sent off for the second time against the Blades this season when he bundled over Kieffer Moore.
Harrison Burrows stepped up and converted from the spot before adding an assist for Andre Brooks’ second, with the Blades fans sent into dreamland when sub Callum O’Hare added a third from close range. Here’s how we rated the Blades’ players on an evening to remember at Ashton Gate...
13. Tom Davies
Replaced Peck and gave United another real boost with a bright performance off the bench which showcased his skill but also his strength, as he barged McCrorie off the ball as if he wasn't even there Photo: Alex Livesey
14. Andre Brooks - 7
Came on for Brewster and repeated his habit of scoring with one of his first touches of the football, finishing at the near post after Burrows' cross was dummied by O'Hare and Moore. What a habit to have, by the way as United belted out "Brooks will tear you apart, again" from the away end | Sportimage
