Sheffield United suffered another defeat in London this time via a 3-1 scoreline against Fulham. The Blades are still winless but are only three points from safety.
Player grades
Wes Foderingham: 4
Misplaced a pass to Willian, leaving him with an open net from 30 yards, but the winger opted for a pass, allowing Foderingham to recover. Made a crucial save moments later when Willian had a clear shot on goal, maintaining a goalless score at the 20-minute mark. Unfortunate to concede the opener and, later, Cairney’s shot hitting the crossbar before going in off his back. The third goal was poor goalkeeping.
Jayden Bogle: 5
Faced a challenging task against Willian, stuck to it well, but the winger managed to cut inside for the third goal. Got into a couple of good positions in attack but his final ball wasn’t good enough.
Chris Basham: 6
Horrific injury. Get well soon Bash.
Anel Ahmedhodzic: 5
Carlos Vinicius dominated him in the build-up to Willian’s opening chance. Shifted to the right after Basham’s injury and displayed solid defensive efforts overall. Quite poor on the ball which has been a common theme this season.
Auston Trusty: 7
Excelled in defence, initially on the left of the three and later moving to the center, displaying an excellent reading of the game. Made numerous crucial blocks and headers, denying Willian and Reid from close range in the first half. Patiently waited for his opportunity and certainly made the most of it today. Standout performer for me.
Luke Thomas: 4
Encountered difficulties, beaten too easily from the kick-off, and created danger by heading a clearance to a Fulham player. Additionally, kept slicing passes and crosses out of play. Looks panicked whenever he touches the ball. Poor.
Oli Norwood: 6
Recalled in place of James McAtee to provide added protection in front of the back five. Performed well, showcasing typical Norwood style by controlling the ball and bringing composure to the defensive midfield position. Lacked legs however and that was exploited in the transitional phase.
Vinícius Souza: 6
Formed a solid double pivot with Norwood, significantly strengthening United’s midfield in front of the defence. While active in trying to push United forward on the break, he didn’t impact the game enough.
Gustavo Hamer: 6
Actively contributed to advancing United on the break, and his defensive efforts off the ball were commendable. Made a crucial tackle as Fulham counterattacked, preventing a potential goal, and did the same thing later on this time blocking a goal-bound shot.
Oli McBurnie: 5
Actively involved as usual, striving to hold up play and provide United with a foundation to build upon. Faced limited opportunities in the first half due to Fulham’s dominance.
Had a notable moment after the break with a header from a corner, but the shot straight at the keeper – should’ve scored really. Nearly equalised, narrowly missing the end of Archer’s cross.
Cameron Archer: 4
Shared a similar first-half struggle for opportunities with McBurnie. Showcased skill in the second half, creating a chance with quick footwork at the edge of the area. His cross narrowly missed Oli McBurnie. But overall, a poor showing. Doesn’t hold the ball up well enough and lacks the ability to draw a foul. The main reason for Cairney’s goal to make it 2-1.
Subs
Robinson 7 (Basham, 35)
McAtee 5 (Hamer, 66)
Larouci 6 (Thomas, 66)
Brewster 4 (Archer, 80)
