“They ran through a brick wall” – Chris Wilder delighted with United’s performance on an emotional day | OneFootball

Sheffield United got back to winning form on Saturday afternoon, securing a much-needed 2-0 victory over Stoke City at Bramall Lane.

The Blades opened the scoring in the first half when Kieffer Moore redirected Alfie Gilchrist’s long-range strike into the bottom corner. Moore’s timely intervention gave United the lead inside 15 minutes, taking full advantage of a positive start to the game.

In the second half, Tyrese Campbell doubled the advantage, reminding Stoke fans of his quality; showing skill and composure, Campbell twisted past defenders in the penalty box before firing home, with less than ten minutes gone in the second half.

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 26: Tyrese Campbell of Sheffield United during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Stoke City FC at Bramall Lane on October 26, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)

Sheffield United manager on the performance against Stoke City

Reflecting on the game, Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder praised his squad’s resolve, particularly in bouncing back after recent setbacks. Wilder emphasised the mental strength the players showed, noting that recovering from disappointment was essential to their success on the day.

“We played some good stuff,” Wilder stated to SUTV. “The way we controlled our emotions was great. The players knew there was a lot riding on this game after two disappointing results. We would’ve loved to go to Elland Road and the Riverside and get a result, but we didn’t. How we recover from that is crucial, and we recovered in good style.”

Wilder added that he was particularly proud of his players’ work rate. “There’s some tired minds and bodies out there, but they didn’t show it. We talked about mentality, not using anything as an excuse; don’t use tiredness as an excuse. If ever there was going to be a performance where they showed what they’re about, they ran through a brick wall for this football club.”

Wilder praised Kieffer Moore’s relentless attitude on the pitch, after adding his second goal of the campaign. “He’s a good sort, his mentality is good, he’s popular among the group, and he puts a shift in. He starts the press from the front, holds up the ball, and he was bashed all over the place today,” Wilder commented. “He’s part of the team that’s got 24 points from 12 games.”

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 26: Rhian Brewster of Sheffield United holds up the shirt in tribute of ex-Sheffield United player George Baldock following the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Stoke City FC at Bramall Lane on October 26, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)

Chris Wilder and former Blade Enda Stevens on what was an emotional day at Bramall Lane

The match, however, was held against a sombre backdrop, as players, fans, and staff paid tribute to Sheffield United legend George Baldock, who recently passed away. A minute’s silence was observed at Bramall Lane in his honour, adding the emotional weight to the afternoon. Wilder touched on this in his post-match interview: “It’s been an emotional last couple of weeks. I still don’t think people understand the effect it’s had on all of us, players, coaches, managers, people who worked with George, office staff, people that worked at Shirecliffe and saw him everyday, ex-players. It was a big challenge today. We had to make sure we got the performance right and I thought the performance was absolutely spot on.”

Former Blade, Enda Stevens laid a wreath at the side of the pitch before kickoff in a very touching moment, and after the game he paid his respects to Baldock and his family. Stevens told Simon Humphreys, “Obviously it was an emotional day. It’s one that you kind of never expect to be in a situation, but I thought it was incredible. Everyone. The respect they paid to him, the minute’s silence. I just thought it was brilliant. If you knew the fella, he was an absolute gentleman, he was a warrior for the club. I shared a dressing room with him for six years, it’s just something I cannot fathom. I send my condolences to his whole family.”