A Josh Windass hattrick as well as goals from Michael Smith and Liam Palmer saw the Owls crush their opponents at Hillsborough, and results elsewhere were kind to them as Ipswich Town were held by 10-man Lincoln City and Barnsley were thumped 3-0 by Bolton Wanderers.
It was a tremendous team showing, with good performances all over the pitch, and Darren Moore will be absolutely delighted with the way that they’ve got things underway in the new year.
A place in the top two is now theirs to lose.
Here’s our ratings for Wednesday after their fantastic performance at S6:
5. Mallik Wilks - 8
Quite possibly his best performance in a Wednesday shirt. Not everything went for him, but he caused lots of issues for the U’s with his directness, and never stopped trying to run at them. Grew in confidence as the game went on, and his assist for Windass’ second was inch perfect. Photo: UGC / Steve Ellis
6. George Byers - 8
Looked back to his combative best in the heart of the Wednesday midfield, and picked a delightfully Bannan-esque ball over the top to find Windass for the opener. Found more passes like that as the game went on, and showed exactly why fans have been so desperate to get him back. Photo: UGC/Steve Ellis
7. Will Vaulks - 8
He was good when coming on for Bannan against Port Vale, so was always likely to start, and he didn’t miss his chance to show what he can do. Played well in the breaker role, but also started a couple of moves going forward. So much went through him in the Owls midfield. Photo: UGC/Steve Ellis
8. Marvin Johnson - 8
Johnson has been more like the player that became so important last season in recent weeks, and was a threat again going forward for the Owls when Cambridge came to town. Proved to be a thorn in their side up on either flank, and barely put a foot wrong all afternoon. Photo: UGC/Steve Ellis