Harry Pickering’s early goal was the difference between the two sides as United failed to build on their Wednesday night victory over Spurs in the FA Cup, placing extra importance on their midweek trip to Reading as the race for promotion takes another turn.
Here’s how we rated the Blades’ players at Ewood Park ...
5. John Egan 5
Returned to the side after suspension as one of eight changes from the Spurs game. Had a couple of sights of goal from corners but flicked one over the bar and got too much on the other. Saw a deserved yellow for a late foul on Gallagher as the Rovers striker looked to race away on goal Photo: Simon Bellis
6. Jack Robinson 6
Typically committed in the challenge, launching himself into a couple of Robinson specials, and almost dragged United level when his deflected header was palmed away by Pears. The best of United's back three with his long-throw a constant thorn in Rovers' side whilever the Blades had momentum Photo: Simon Bellis
7. Max Lowe 4
Seemed to be targeted by Blackburn early on as they looked to release Sorba Thomas down their right wing whenever they could. Looked slow to react to the danger at times as Blackburn pressed for a second and couldn't make much of an impact going the other way either before being replaced by Osborn Photo: OLI SCARFF
8. Ollie Norwood 5
Burnley-born Norwood will have been desperate to impress against their biggest rivals but his passing was unusually wayward early on. Was fuming at the ref's decision to book him for upending Dolan but replays suggested it was a fair call. Regained some control as the game went on and a lovely ball sent Osborn clear before he made way for Doyle Photo: Simon Bellis