Sheffield United returned to the top of the Championship table but were left frustrated as a stoppage-time equaliser from Mark Sykes denied them victory against Bristol City.
Tyrese Campbell’s 10th goal of the season looked set to secure a crucial three points for Chris Wilder’s side, but Sykes’ late intervention meant the Blades hold just a one-point lead over Leeds United, who can reclaim top spot with a win over Millwall on Wednesday night.
Defences dominate before second-half drama
The match carried plenty of anticipation, with both teams in strong form and their reverse fixture in November having ended in late drama and a red card for City’s Rob Dickie.
However, the first half was a cagey affair with defences on top. Sheffield United eventually found the breakthrough on 61 minutes with a slick attacking move. Gus Hamer initiated the play, Rhian Brewster flicked it on, and Campbell applied a composed finish past O’Leary to give the visitors the lead.
It looked as though Campbell was set to be the match-winner for a third consecutive game, but City had other ideas.
As Sheffield United tried to see out the win, Bristol City’s substitutes combined to snatch a point. George Earthy played the ball into Sykes just inside the area, and the Irishman swept home a left-footed finish to send the home crowd into celebration.
‘We should have been better’ – Wilder reacts
Blades manager Chris Wilder admitted his side lacked energy and failed to control the game as they let victory slip away.
“We were lethargic and leggy and no energy really. They caused us problems and had us stretched at the top of the pitch and we sat too deep.
“We still had the best chances – I think we had three or four really good chances – so the control of the game was theirs, the best chances were ours.
“After 55-60 minutes we gained more energy and control, got ourselves in front and from there we were OK but not good enough to go and get two or three. We should have been better.”
Writer’s view
Sheffield United’s inability to see out games could prove costly in the title race. They had chances to kill this match off but lacked the clinical edge needed to do so. With Leeds United breathing down their necks, they cannot afford more slip-ups.
For Bristol City, this was a morale-boosting result, showcasing their resilience and ability to stay in the play-off hunt. Their late equaliser could prove vital in the long run, but they will need to turn more of these performances into wins to secure a top-six finish.
