Chris Wilder “disappointed” as Sheffield United play out to a 0-0 draw against Portsmouth | OneFootball

Sheffield United and Portsmouth played out a tense 0-0 draw at Fratton Park on Saturday. Though the scoreline suggested a lack of action, the reality on the pitch was quite the opposite, as both sides created multiple opportunities to break the deadlock. The game’s outcome largely hinged on the outstanding performances of the two goalkeepers: Michael Cooper of Sheffield United and Will Norris of Portsmouth.

United’s first half attack was driven by the pace of Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, whose ability to break through Portsmouth’s defensive line down the right created a spark for the Blades. One of their best chances came when Gilchrist delivered a perfectly lofted pass over the top, allowing Rak-Sakyi to speed down the wing. Reaching the byline, Rak-Sakyi produced an inviting cross to the back post, finding Gustavo Hamer in space. However, just when it looked like Hamer would put the visitors ahead with a close-range header, Pompey keeper Will Norris sprang into action, making a crucial save to keep the scores level.

Portsmouth responded with their own threat, and just before the break, they came agonisingly close to breaking through. Marlon Pack whipped in a dangerous cross-turned-shot from a wide free-kick, catching the Blades’ defence off guard. The ball swerved and bounced just in front of United’s Michael Cooper, who managed to react with lightning speed, parrying the ball over the bar to prevent a certain goal.

Michael Cooper pulls off a spectacular save to keep the score level between Sheffield United and Portsmouth.

Sheffield United manager disappointed with end product against Portsmouth

After the game, Blades manager Chris Wilder reflected on the performance, via SUTV, and the challenge of facing Portsmouth. “We’d have liked more,” Wilder admitted. “We’d have liked to show a little bit more quality, but we’ve done our analysis on Portsmouth. They go to Leeds and get a result, and last week they should’ve beaten Burnley before falling to a 96th-minute winner. We always knew it was going to be that type of game.”

Wilder emphasised the youth and inexperience in his squad, noting the steep learning curve they are facing in their bid to return to the Premier League. “Everyone sees Sheffield United as this team that’s come out of the Premier League and should go straight back up. But it’s a completely brand new team. There are kids all over the place; Femi is 21, Brooksy is 21, Rak-Sakyi is 21. We’ve got young players all over the team, whether they’re learning their trade or coming out of Premier League teams on loan.”

Despite the draw, Wilder acknowledged the difficulty of playing against a passionate Portsmouth side in a hostile atmosphere. “Their boys stepped up and caused us problems. We caused them problems at times too, but we were just disappointed that we didn’t find that bit of quality when we got into some fabulous positions.”

Wilder praised John Mousinho’s team’s performance and the challenge they presented. “They were good, you’ve got to give them credit,” he said. “If they play like that in all their home games and away games, they’re going to get results, and they’re going to make it as tough for everyone else as they did for us today.”