“We are killing ourselves” – A Frustrated Chris Wilder Reacts As Sheffield United Get Destroyed By Derby | OneFootball

Sheffield United suffered a shocking 3-1 home defeat to Derby County at Bramall Lane, as Carlton Morris’ hat-trick punished a string of costly errors and left Chris Wilder’s side searching for answers ahead of a daunting midweek trip to high-flying Coventry City.

Derby took the lead midway through the first half when Joe Ward’s inswinging corner was met by Morris, who guided a clever header beyond Michael Cooper and into the far corner in front of the Kop. The goal rocked United, but they had opportunities to level before the interval. Japhet Tanganga’s header from a Sydie Peck free-kick was clawed away by Zetterström, while Tyrese Campbell headed over from Chiedozie Ogbene’s inviting cross.

However, any hopes of a second-half turnaround were dashed within seconds of the restart. A loose backpass from Peck was seized upon by Morris, who raced clear on goal and calmly chipped the advancing Cooper to double Derby’s lead.

As the Blades pushed forward, Derby struck again. Substitute Alex Matos was penalised for handball inside the area, allowing Morris to step up and complete his first-ever career hat-trick with a confident penalty, sending Cooper the wrong way and sparking wild celebrations among the travelling support.

United did manage a consolation in the 73rd minute when Sam McCallum’s long throw caused panic in the Derby box, and Callum O’Hare pounced on the loose ball before rifling home from close range. It was too little, too late, as the visitors saw out an excellent win.

Chris Wilder Reacts to Sheffield United’s Embarrassing Defeat to Derby County

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 01: Carlton Morris of Derby County celebrates scoring his second goal of the game during the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United and Derby County at Bramall Lane on November 01, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by Harriet Massey/Getty Images)

After the game, Chris Wilder admitted his frustration at his side’s repeated self-inflicted mistakes.

“We are killing ourselves,” Wilder said to SUTV. “We get in at half-time and the game was going to be what we thought: counter-attack, into Carlton Morris, off Carlton Morris. That’s the way they play, and it’s no criticism because I’d rather be their manager tonight than ours.

“They haven’t really had to work hard for their goals. A free header, a gift for the second, and then a penalty. We’ve given ourselves a mountain to climb.”

The Blades boss lamented what he saw as a step backwards following two positive recent performances, adding: “We have to go again, keep trying harder and keep working harder during the week. I don’t think we are a million miles off winning games and being a decent side, but really it’s a step back in terms of results over the past two games.”

The defeat leaves United needing a swift reaction ahead of Tuesday night’s trip to Coventry City, who currently sit top of the Championship and are the only side to have scored over 30 goals so far this season, and have scored an incredible 14 more than the next highest scorers. This is the last team the Blades want to face away from home after conceding six goals in the last two games.