Sheffield United tasted defeat against Crystal Palace in the opening Premier League game of the campaign. Despite fielding a patched up team, the Blades limited the damage to just a single goal. But going the other way, the forwards fed off scraps all game.
Player Grades
Wes Foderingham: 8
Foderingham must’ve felt relieved when Ayew’s header was disallowed in the first half as he had palmed out Anderson’s powerful shot into the direction of the forward.
Despite conceding the opening goal, United stayed in the game thanks to a great save from Foderingham against Schlupp at 1-0. Ayew’s attempt was thwarted shortly after as well. The highlight save occurred in the final moments, when an impressive quick reaction by the goalkeeper denied Andersen’s close range header.
Foderingham prevented 0.93 goals with his seven saves, according to SofaScore.
Anel Ahmedhodzic: 6
Managed to disrupt Edouard’s attempt at the far post, preventing him from having an uncontested header from a corner. Executed a pair of well-timed interceptions.
Due to the formidable attacking trio of Schlupp, Eze and Edouard from Palace, he couldn’t venture forward as frequently as usual. He will be disappointed that Edouard managed to score the goal as he was left on his heels in the six-yard box.
John Egan: 6
Engaged right from the start, actively winning numerous aerial duels and swiftly moving across to make an excellent block, to stop Eze’s attempt.
He had an opportunity to score from a Norwood corner but unfortunately couldn’t direct his header downward.
In the second half, he faced a tense moment when caught off-guard in possession, which might have had consequences if Robinson hadn’t reacted quickly to provide cover.
Jack Robinson: 6
Executed a remarkable block to guard his goal when Edouard unleashed a goalbound shot. Displayed excellent game awareness, promptly covering to deny Eze with a crucial block around the half-hour mark.
George Baldock: 8
Earned a pair of corners during the initial period, with one resulting from a skillful exchange of passes with Osborn before venturing into the box. He was a huge outlet in attack for the Blades, providing endless energy and driving runs.
Demonstrated defensive prowess against Schlupp’s speed, and a standout moment arrived 15 minutes before the end. When Palace aimed to secure victory, he impressively intervened, executing a vital block to keep the game alive.
Max Lowe: 7
Occasionally composed in tight areas while holding the ball. Ayew posed a challenge and stood out as a standout performer for Palace, making it a demanding afternoon. Lowe displayed solid defensive skills and remained committed to his duties.
He was caught off guard by Lerma’s clever flicked header over his head, but fortunately, Baldock intervened to save the situation.
Oli Norwood: 7
Several well-executed passes were made, strategically slowing down the game at crucial moments to allow United to establish control.
Norwood effectively shifted the play out wide to maintain an offensive position. Corner kicks were skillfully delivered, finding Egan, and there was also an attempt from a distance that went straight to the keeper.
The midfielder racked up 2 key passes, both from dead-balls.
Chris Basham: 5
Chosen for the midfield role to provide an additional defensive shield ahead of the back three, particularly considering the influence of number 10 Eze. Additionally, managed to provide support alongside Baldock on that flank when needed.
Ben Osborn: 5
Was the midfielder tasked with breaching the lines and advancing to provide support? There were a few instances in the initial half where he excelled, applying pressure and connecting the attack to the midfield.
He was outplayed by Ayew for the goal and really should have done more to intercept the cross.
Bénie Traoré: 7
Had a tough time getting into the game during the initial half, but demonstrated significant improvement after halftime. Maintained possession, sustained multiple attacks, and his pace was a constant threat.
He did his best to relieve the pressure off of United’s defence, and he linked up well with his strike partner.
Will Osula: 8
Nearly scored with a curling attempt at the beginning, which seemed destined for the far corner, but a slight deflection pushed it wide.
Showed impressive work rate as a forward, constantly posing a threat by utilising his speed and strength to stretch the opposing defense and make penetrating runs.
Was United’s only threat in the match, and he failed to register a shot on goal, so that tells its own story.
Subs
Larouci (Lowe 80): 6
Anis Slimane (Robinson 80): 6
Vinícius Souza (Basham 80): 6
Andre Brooks (Osborn 87): 6
Antwoine Hackford (Traoré 87): 6
