Sheffield United meet Stevenage tomorrow in what is the two clubs first meeting ever in League One. Undefeated in the last seven and an impressive away record of 1 defeat in their last six away encounters United very much come into this tie in the ascendancy. However, Stevenage will be equally buoyant after two back to back wins that have raised them to tenth in the League One table.
The match will be very much a battle of styles with robust Stevenage having to contend with United’s counter attackive tactics. Nevertheless, as has been displayed against teams like Sheff Wednesday United have struggled against the long ball, and with the addition of two unconfident keepers in their ranks expect a barrage of high balls into the box.
Where United struggle at the back they have prospered in attacking areas over the last few weeks, the 4-4 draw against Exeter testament to this. Their skill in moving the ball from back to front with the added pace of Phillips and Clarke means Stevenage will have to be wary about committing too many men forward.
Vital Quotes:
Danny Wilson on Stevenage’s robust style…
“To be honest, I`m more interested in how we play than what the opposition do. We have to be very brave in what we do because, at some stage, there will be an opportunity for us to play and when they happens we have to make sure we`re ready…If we`re calm then we`ll make better choices’
Stevenage Team News:
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Player to watch: Mark Roberts
Stevenage rely on a solid defence and this has served them well this season only conceding 17 to United’s 20. At the heart of this defence is Mark Roberts the talismanic captain who after working his way up the non-league ladder has found his place in Hertfordshire. His partnership with team mate Ashton has been one that has been solidified over two seasons.
Sheffield United Team News:
With two games left to run on their loan contracts expect Blackpool loan duo to remain in the starting line up after breathing new life in United’s attacking fortunes since arriving in October. Blades have no fresh injury concerns. Instead they are boosted by the news that Lee Williamson is to have a fitness test today to ascertain if he can be brought into the squad. In addition, to the news that young Wolves winger is back at Shirecliffe after picking up an injury against Rotherham in the Johnstone’s paint Trophy.
Player to watch: Matt Phillips
Has to be Phillips. After a performance last Saturday that saw Blades fans questioning how on earth we managed to get him in the first place. His pace, trickery and finishing ability is far too much for many at this level. Expect goals.
Match Facts & Stats
Match Prediction:
With united often struggling against teams of the ‘long ball’ persuasion and with a lack of confidence at the back I can definitely see us conceding if not one a couple. Equally, I do feel that we are always capable of scoring and against a team that have just recently been promoted this is even more the case. Once again I can see a scoring draw. Maybe 1-1 or 2-2.
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