Sheffield United finally clinched their elusive first away victory of the season against Luton Town, providing a significant boost to their slim hopes of survival. Goals from Cameron Archer, James McAtee, and the outstanding Vinicius Souza propelled United to a stylish comeback following their disheartening 5-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa last weekend.
The Blades are now level on 13 points with Burnley, and are now seven points behind Saturday afternoon’s opponent’s Luton.
My player grades
Wes Foderingham: 7
Barely had much to do because the defence was outstanding, but when he was called upon to make a save or gather a cross, he did it with conviction. Unfortunate to not keep a clean sheet due to a strange penalty decision by the referee.
Jayden Bogle: 8
Bogle had the difficult task of dealing with Alfie Doughty, Luton’s best deliverer of the ball, and he did fantastically well. The improvements from Bogle since Chris Wilder has come back has been incredible. He’s stronger in duels, and he is a constant willing runner, even in the dying embers of a relentless game.
Mason Holgate: 6
Holgate displayed a solid performance as he continues to adapt to his new teammates. He showcased commendable defensive instincts by bravely intercepting multiple well-struck shots in the first half, which would have posed a significant challenge for Foderingham. After a horrendous debut last weekend, it was a good response from the Yorkshireman on Saturday.
Anel Ahmedhodzic: 8
The Sheffield United captain was brilliant, silencing those who claim he can’t defend properly. A 100% success rate in total duels, followed by double digit clearances, evidently shows he can mop up the danger.
Jack Robinson: 7
Had the right side of Luton’s attack on lockdown for the majority of the game. And when it appeared as though the defence would be breached, Robinson came to the rescue with three brilliantly timed tackles.
Rhys Norrington-Davies: N/A
Devastating to see Rhys exit early. Disgusting from the home fans who mocked him leaving the field.
Vinicius Souza: 9
One of the best midfield performances from a defensive point of view I have seen in years. The big Brazilian won 15 out of 18 total duels, and he made six successful tackles. An excellent strike for his first Blades goal too.
Gustavo Hamer: 7
During the game it seemed like Hamer barely had a touch of the ball, that’s because he didn’t. Just four completed passes in the game, that being said two of them were key passes. I’m certainly not displeased with that because that’s exactly what his game is built around. Far from a possession-based midfielder, but an effective creator.
Ben Osborn: 8
A very good game from Osborn. Constantly working hard, tracking runners, squeezing up the pitch at the right time. He added an assist to his name after his efforts in Vinicius Souza’s goal. Was a big part as to why Luton’s Ross Barkley didn’t impact the game in the way that people thought he would’ve done.
James McAtee: 7
Not his best game but who cares. It was never going to be with the position and role asked of him. Took his penalty really well though and helped the Blades to a 3-1 win.
Cameron Archer: 8
This lad will be a very good Premier League striker. No doubt in my mind. After missing an absolute sitter, he turned into a man possessed and made a nothing ball into an epic solo goal. His attitude and work rate is magnificent. I’ve seen people claim he is lazy, I don’t see that at all.
Subs
Max Lowe 7, (Norrington-Davies, 5′)
Tom Davies 7, (Hamer, 60′)
Rhian Brewster N/A, (Archer, 81′)
Oli Norwood N/A, (McAtee, 81′)
