Summary:
- Middlesbrough defeated Sheffield United 2-1 with first-half goals from Tommy Conway and Riley McGree.
- Patrick Bamford scored late for the Blades, but Joe Rothwell’s red card ended their comeback hopes.
- The victory gives Boro six consecutive wins and puts them two points clear at the top of the Championship.
Middlesbrough climbed to the top of the Championship with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Monday night.
First Period Cushion
Goals from Tommy Conway and Riley McGree in the first half set Boro on their way, giving them a two-point cushion over second-placed Coventry and a seven-point lead over Ipswich, though the Tractor Boys still had a game in hand.
Sheffield United pulled one back late through Patrick Bamford, offering a glimmer of hope, but debutant Joe Rothwell’s red card in the 80th minute ended any chance of a comeback. The Blades remain eight points outside the play-off spots.
Middlesbrough’s first goal came in the 19th minute when Luke Ayling and Morgan Whittaker linked up with McGree to set up Conway, who finished neatly.
The visitors doubled their lead just before halftime. Hackney’s shot struck the post, and McGree was quickest to react, heading in the rebound to make it 2-0.
Sheffield Tried to Regroup
Sheffield United tried to get back into the game after the break, with Callum O’Hare sending a dangerous ball across the box, but Bamford couldn’t quite connect at the right moment.
He did find the net in the 73rd minute, controlling a pass from Hamer and slotting home from 12 yards. But Rothwell’s sending off shortly afterward effectively sealed the game for Boro.
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder acknowledged Middlesbrough’s quality.
I thought they were the better team. The second goal is really poor from our point of view. Our attitude was good, we had big moments. It’s a big night for them, and a reality check for us.
Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg praised his players’ courage and composure.
It was an amazing game of football, back and forth, with a lot of chances and bravery from both sides. After the first 10 minutes, we found our way into the game. It became an open match, but I loved the way we stayed in charge and kept playing our football. I’m very happy with the players’ performance.
Boro’s victory marks six wins in a row and sets up a blockbuster clash at Coventry next Monday which you will be able to bet on with the best Non UK Gambling Sites for UK Players.