Sheffield United chief on comeback win at Ashton Gate: “You can’t beat a last-minute winner” | OneFootball

Sheffield United claimed a crucial 2-1 victory over Bristol City at Ashton Gate. The Blades, trailing until the 86th minute, demonstrated grit and resilience, battling back from behind to earn a valuable three points heading into the Steel City derby on Sunday.

The match, held on Bonfire night, truly ignited in its final quarter, with both sides pushing their limits in pursuit of a decisive result. The second half brought the breakthrough as Bristol City were awarded a penalty in the 75th minute, which Anis Mehmeti expertly converted to put the home side ahead.

United’s night took another blow as striker Kieffer Moore was forced off with a calf injury, with teenage talent Ryan Oné stepping up to fill his boots.

Oné, the promising Scottish forward, proved his worth just minutes later. In the 86th minute, he found himself at the heart of United’s comeback, leaping above the Bristol City defence to connect with Souttar’s corner flick-on. His powerful header sent the ball into the top left corner, sparking celebrations among the travelling supporters.

With the score level, the Blades pushed for a winner as stoppage time ticked down. Then, in the dying minutes of added time, Sheffield United’s persistence paid off. A dazzling run by Oliver Arblaster sliced through Bristol City’s defensive line before he played in Harrison Burrows on the left edge of the box. Burrows skillfully held off his marker, creating just enough space to fire a shot low into the bottom right corner, clinching a dramatic 2-1 win for the Blades in the 98th minute.

BRISTOL, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Harrison Burrows of Sheffield United scores the team’s second goal during the Sky Bet Championship match between Bristol City FC and Sheffield United FC at Ashton Gate on November 05, 2024 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

Chris Wilder on incredible comeback win but Sheffield United dealt blow with Kieffer Moore’s injury

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder, speaking in his post-match interview, praised his team’s fighting spirit, while acknowledging the challenging nature of the game. “I didn’t think it was a smash and grab,” he noted. “It was a tight game against good opposition, we just needed to raise our levels at half-time. After going behind, I thought we showed all our character. We started to play in the last 20 minutes.”

On the euphoria of a last-minute winner, Wilder added, “You can’t beat a last-minute winner… when you do get those moments in a game, in a season, in your career; they’re a little bit special.”

The manager also had words of encouragement for Oné, who played a pivotal role in the equaliser. “He’s barely 18. A great amount of credit should go to Paul Mitchell for spotting him. He’s going through the gears. And we felt it was better for them to stay and learn in our environment.”

While the win provided Sheffield United with a morale boost, Wilder expressed concern over Moore’s calf injury. “He’s an absolute warrior and would’ve stayed on,” Wilder said. “We’ll give him 48 hours… but if we have to go with Ryan, Rhian, or Tyrese, we’ll be prepared.”