Sheffield United earned a crucial 2-1 victory over Stoke City at the bet365 Stadium, with Thomas Cannon scoring the winner against the club he starred for on loan last season. Cannon, an Irish striker, returned to haunt his former side, marking only his third goal of the season as the Blades bounced back from a heavy Boxing Day defeat at Wrexham.
Early Misses and United’s First Goal
The game began with several missed opportunities from Stoke. Callum O’Hare was unmarked on the penalty spot but skied a low cross from Femi Seriki, while Ben Gibson headed over another chance. Sheffield United had a chance of their own when Sorba Thomas headed at Blades goalkeeper Michael Cooper after a cross from Tatsuki Seko.
The breakthrough came on 47 minutes when Jairo Riedewald, celebrating a new Blades contract, poked the ball past Sam Gallagher, giving United a 1-0 lead.
Cannon Seals the Win
Just six minutes later, Thomas Cannon doubled Sheffield United’s advantage. Converting Harrison Burrows’ cross from six yards out, the striker put the visitors 2-0 up. Stoke responded through Ben Wilmot, who fired a looping header off the underside of the bar on 65 minutes, making it 2-1 and setting up a tense finale.
Late drama saw Ben Pearson dismissed for pulling down Patrick Bamford in a clear goal-scoring opportunity, securing United’s fifth consecutive win against Stoke.
Manager Reactions
Chris Wilder, Sheffield United manager, praised his side’s performance:
“It was very rewarding, we got our rewards. The first 65-70 minutes were outstanding. Then when we had to show courage and personality, we did. Nights like these remind you what winning feels like.”
Stoke boss Mark Robins highlighted the effort of his squad despite the result:
“I don’t like the booing. Our players are trying their best with a limited squad. The second-half performance was much better, and we’re all supportive. You win together, lose together, draw together.”
Player Performances
- Callum O’Hare (Stoke City) – 7.88 – Player of the Match despite a missed chance
- Thomas Cannon (Sheffield United) – decisive winner
- Jairo Riedewald (Sheffield United) – 1st goal for the Blades
- Ben Wilmot (Stoke City) – scored Stoke’s only goal
- Michael Cooper (Sheffield United) – made key saves to protect the lead
Other notable contributions came from Sorba Thomas, Harrison Burrows, and Patrick Bamford, who all played important roles in Sheffield United’s attacking play.
Significance of the Result
The win was crucial for Sheffield United, moving them back into the promotion hunt after a setback at Wrexham, while Stoke’s struggles continue. With seven defeats in their last 10 games, Stoke have slipped further down the Championship table, losing ground on promotion contenders.
Key Takeaways
- Thomas Cannon scores late winner against former club Stoke City.
- Sheffield United claim 2-1 victory to bounce back from Boxing Day defeat.
- Jairo Riedewald opens scoring for the Blades.
- Ben Wilmot scores Stoke’s lone goal; Ben Pearson red-carded late.
- Sheffield United secure fifth consecutive win against Stoke, boosting promotion hopes.
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