But Sheffield Wednesday’s effort at Leicester City was one full of heart and graft on an afternoon the bookies held the home side as the shortest favourites in the history of the Championship. They were made to scrap and grapple every step of the way.
Nathaniel Chalobah’s opener was just reward for a competitive, up-and-at-em Owls first half that had them toe to toe with the title hopefuls. No pre-season of any note, unpaid wages, confusion over the management team, the loss of so many key players. It was defiant.
But as the sun beat down, as the legs grew more and more tired and as Leicester emptied their dugout of internationals, in the end it was just too much to ask. Here are our ratings from a sun-kissed King Power.
5. Max Lowe - 8
Read the game beautifully to cut out a couple of dangerous-looking attacks. Looked like a player with experience, doing all the simple things well and shepherding things. | UGC
6. Liam Palmer - 7
Serenaded by the away end and played very much like 'one of their own'. Made a huge block and was generally stoic. You can't help but wonder what a role he could play this season. | UGC
7. Nathaniel Chalobah - 7
Took two shots; one was grazed onto the post and one was deflected into the goal. Otherwise showed good, combative spirit in the half-hour he played. Looked devastated to come off injured. | UGC
8. Barry Bannan - 7
A couple of bopping Bannan balls bouncing behind were brilliant - and started attacks. Played with his heart of his sleeve and moved it around nicely. Harshly sent off late on. | UGC