Millwall vs. Sheffield United - Part 1

Last updated : 18 March 2016 By @blades_mad1889

In recent years a trip to the New Den has proved to become a good stomping ground for the Blades. Between 8 March 1986 to 18 October 2003 United lost 8 consecutive matches at Millwall. But since then have manged to win three straight victories; 2004 (2-1), 2005 (4-0) and in 2010 (1-0) despite suffering relegation come the seasons end.

Having drawn at Fleetwood Town by two goals in dramatic fashion via an injury time penalty from Che Adams, the Blades went onto net three at home to Oldham Athletic without reply, taking United's league position to 11th. Reaching the top six looks like a mountain to climb despite being six points away from sixth spot Bradford City but a win tomorrow could go a long way to reaching their goal.

Sheffield United got their push for a play-off place back on track with a 3-0 victory over relegation-threatened Oldham at Bramall Lane. The hosts ran out comfortable winners after goals from John Brayford, Ryan Flynn and Billy Sharp, with the visitors rarely threatening. Brayford struck the first goal in the 10th minute with a well-timed volley from the edge of the box after the Latics failed to clear their lines.

The Blades doubled their advantage in the 21st minute when Flynn capitalised on a poor pass, burst through the defence and took the ball round Joel Coleman before smashing the ball into the net. Half-time substitute Curtis Main had the visitors' first effort on goal early in the second half but George Long was alert and got down well to keep his clean sheet intact.

Main then powerfully drove a shot at the Blades goal from range and struck the underside of the crossbar, leaving Long helpless in goal. Brayford played a delightful ball down the side of the Oldham defence to set up the third goal in the 77th minute and Sharp finished off well, powering the ball past Coleman at his near post and sealing the win for the Blades.

Midfielder Martyn Woolford could be side-lined for longer than expected due to an ankle injury sustained at Rochdale a fortnight ago. Teenage midfielders Dominic Calvin-Lewin and Ben Whiteman are hoping to feature again after being involved in the win last weekend - though Whiteman limped off and may be rested at the Den.

Blades-Mad Prediction: Millwall 0 Sheffield United 1

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