Sheffield United returned to winning ways with a battling victory at Bristol City this afternoon, with homegrown hero Oliver Arblaster netting an early winner from outside the box. Arblaster returned to the side in midfield.
And he justified the call with a brilliant volleyed strike which put United in early control of the game. They couldn’t extend their lead and make it a bit more comfortable, especially when City threw bodies forward late on, but held firm - even when City were given an extra nine minutes of added time in which to try and get back into the game.
Here’s how we rated the Blades at Ashton Gate...
5. Liam Kitching 7
An eventful game for the Coventry loanee at Ashton Gate, where he became the pantomime villain after shoving Hirakawa after he went down looking for a penalty. The City man hit the deck again trying to get Kitching sent off but the referee saw through it and either side of that flashpoint Kitching almost scored twice, with two efforts on either foot deflected away for United corners | ugc
6. Harrison Burrows 6
Made his long-awaited return to the United side but also attracted the wrath of the home fans when he wiped out Ballard as they challenged for a bouncing ball. For a man with such quality in that left foot he doesn't half look panicked when the ball comes near him at times but to be fair he made a big block to deny Wallace's well-struck shot at a time with City were building up a head of steam in their search for an equaliser. Finished the game at right-back after McGuinness went off | ugc
7. Tahith Chong 5
Started on the left rather than the right as usual and had a few decent moments but too often found himself isolated with a couple of defenders around him or running down blind alleys | ugc
8. Oliver Arblaster 8
Came into the starting XI with Peck dropping to the bench and what a way to justify the decision, volleying the Blades into the lead in the opening exchanges of the game. It was a moment that showcased again the technical quality this young man has, taking the ball down beautifully on his chest before dispatching it into the bottom corner past a 'keeper of quality in Tickle. He understandably grew in confidence after that and was good on the ball, carrying it nicely when the chance arose but using it intelligently when necessary. Made way for Peck | ugc