The reserve claims a great victory over local rivals Barnsley; winning 2-0 at Bramall Lane – a young side won the match with goals from Joe Ironside and Jordan Slew.
A day later the club; and fans are saddened by the death of former Sheffield United and Huddersfield Town winger Ron Simpson who passed away following a short illness at the age of 76. He played over 200 times in a Red and White shirt between 1958 and 1965; he also turned out for Carlisle United and Scottish club Queen of the South during his distinctive career.
Next came that eagerly awaited Championship fixture with Crystal Palace, shown live on Sky TV. It was a dramatic outcome; United coming from behind from 1-2 down with five minutes remaining to win the game 3-2.
Neil Danns (18 minutes) netted from the spot after he had been fouled by Jean Calve, but on 39th minute Richard Cresswell put his penalty away following Ched Evans tumble in the box.
Palace was reduced to ten men when Owen Garvan (ex-Ipswich) was dismissed for descent. Early in the second half the visitors took the lead via the head of James Vaughan before Julian Speroni kept out an assault of chances before Evans (85) finally broke the deadlock.
Minutes later Daniel Bogdanovic was fouled in the box and he stepped up to the breach to win the game before he too was sent off; 3-2. Taking positives out of the game it was good to see all three strikers find the back of the net when throughout this season’s campaign the Blades have struggled in front of goal.
John Pemberton’s Academy side crash 2-1 at Shirecliffe against Sheffield Wednesday – Callum McFadzean nets for United but two late goals seals the win for the Owls.
Prior to the Blades visit to Ashton Gate the club announce the stepping down of chairman Kevin McCabe, though it is understood that he shall remain chairman of Sheffield United PLC. Chris Steer will take over the reins at Sheffield United FC.
A week on from that victory over the Eagles the Blades travelled to Bristol City, hoping to emulate the previous season’s result when Darius Henderson netted a hat-trick in a 3-2 win. Though it wasn’t to be with Brett Pitman (6 & 34) was netting twice from the penalty spot and Jamie McAllister (62) finishing the rout. But again the Blades made heavy work for themselves; trailing two goals behind striker Richard Cresswell is sent off following a mistimed challenge.
On the Sunday after the game the draw is made for the FA Cup Third Round; United are paired with Aston Villa at Bramall Lane – opponents they faced in the same competition in 1996 and 2005.
Blades-Mad Player of the Month: Andy Reid