Sheffield United enjoyed their most comfortable victory of the season against Fulham last night. First half goals from Stead and Tonge gave United a comprehensive 2-0 victory.
United started the game with intent and could have been in front after only 30 seconds had Hulse converted Kazim-Richards cross.
The impressive Quinn was the next to test Fulham’s goal, as a neat ball from Stead played him through, but the youngster saw his shot deflect wide off Niemi.
United deservedly took the lead on 23 minutes as Stead scored his first goal for the Blades. The striker played a one-two with Montgomery and then beat two Fulham defenders before smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
United refused to sit on their lead and were rewarded with a second goal only five minutes later. A Kazim-Richards cross was superbly cut across the box by Quinn and Tongue tapped the ball into the net.
The Blades continued to have the better of the first half and went close through both Stead and Hulse but the score remained 2-0 at half-time.
Stead had the first chance of a far quieter second half. The striker turned his marker and struck a low shot, which Niemi smothered.
Former Blade Michael Brown burst into the box for Fulham on 70 minutes but was superbly tackled by the impressive Jagielka.
United almost had a three goal lead minutes later when a Stead cross was met by Hulse, but the striker put his shot wide of the post.
Next, some good work by Quinn on the wing allowed the youngster to whip in a cross that was fumbled by Niemi, and bounced across the line and out.
United could have ended the game with a three goal lead, but a late chance saw Hulse lob the ball over Niemi but against the bar.
The final whistle saw United claim a valuable three points along with their first two goal victory of the season.
United’s defensive performance was superb throughout, but for Fulham to fail to test Kenny in 90 minutes of football emphasises just how poor Coleman’s side were.
Player Ratings
Kenny
6/10
Had very, very, very little to do.
Geary
7.5/10
Great performance from Geary. Didn’t give Fulham a second on the ball.
Armstrong
7/10
Did well defensively but played some poor balls forward.
Lucketti
7.5/10
A commanding performance. Won everything in the air.
Jagielka
8/10
Didn’t give Fulham’s forwards a sniff of a chance.
Montgomery
7.5/10
Often doesn’t get credit he deserves. Great battling performance.
Tonge
7/10
Kept Brown very quiet but could have provided more coming forward.
Kazim-Richards
6.5/10
Worked hard but often tries the impossible ball instead of the easy pass.
Quinn
8/10
Great performance both in attack and defence.
Hulse
7/10
Seems to be creating an understanding with Stead but still room for improvement.
Stead
7.5/10
Back to form after a poor display against Reading. Chased everything down and scored a great goal.