The Blades left the Boleyn Ground feeling utterly disappointed with their performance after a sluggish West Ham who were reeling after a disappointing draw in Helsinki (Finland) days previous in the European Cup overcame a struggling Sheffield United side to win by two goals to nothing.
For their troubles the visitors had started the game off well and in fine tradition Tony Currie was king of the pitch and Alan Woodward was in fine display - showing great speed and resourcefulness and a surprise of the day could have been on the cards.
Poor United had yet to win all season with another defeat much expected, they had dropped the ageing Len Badger and introduced Cliff Calvert who was a newcomer to top flight football, but he fitted in well.
At first glace this didn't look like a Sheffield United side which was lacking in confidence and dwelling in the relegation zone, Woodward and Currie provided most of the artistry and the lesser known players like David Bradford, who at 5'5" short played their part also.
In meantime the Hammers faithful were hoping that something positive would crop up, and they had to wait until 20 minutes remaining, with increased anticipation and certainty the home side surged forward and scored. A shot from Pat Holland was blocked but Trevor Brooking was at hand to swing the ball across the box for Tommy Taylor to fire home.
The Blades looked tired and dispirited - lagging behind by a single goal after putting in such a great effort demoralised them and naturally West Ham took full advantage and dominated the game from then on. Clyde Best, who had been a forgotten man at Upton Park had been handed the number 12 (substitutes) jersey and it was he who netted the final blow in this game late on.
He had replaced Alan Taylor prior to his goal which was largely celebrated after being left out of the team for so long. The Hammers played out the match and poor United were succumbed to yet another defeat in the top flight.
West Ham United: M. Day, J. McDowell, F. Lampard, W. Bonds, T. Taylor, K. Lock, A. Taylor (sub; C. Best), G. Paddon, W, Jennings, T. Brooking, P. Holland.
Sheffield United: J. Brown, C. Calvert, D. Bradford, K. Eddy, E. Colquhoun, J. Flynn, A. Woodward, A. Field, C. Guthrie, A. Currie (Sub; D. Irving), M. Speight.
Referee: R. C. Crabb (Exeter)