Sheffield United lost their pre-season friendly at Burton Albion, who are managed by former Blades striker Paul Peschisolido; the Brewers won by a single goal by Greg Pearson after a mix-up in the defence. They were however made to work for their win and fought off much endured pressure in the second half but United failed to capitalise on their chances.
Former Birmingham City defender Gregory Vignal was again given an opportunity to shine whilst on trial, he was given a starting role alongside new signings Robert Kozluk and Johnny Ertl in what looked a strong defensive back four.
The hosts took the lead through ‘kamikaze’ defending when skipper Chris Morgan and fellow centre-half Ertl were caught out by a Jimmy Philips cross and from all of six yards Greg Pearson fired home past Estonian national Mihkel Aksalu.
After the half-time interval the Blades raised the stakes, but they didn’t bank on substitute keeper Kevin Poole pulling out all the stops at the ripe age of 47. Assistant manager Gary Speed said: "We thought we were the better team in the second half but Pooley at 47 was in good form and we just couldn't get it back."