After grinding out two victories out at the end of November, December began much the same for United, with James Harper grabbing a last minute goal to give United all three points in a poor game at Plymouth.
The Blades injury crisis had hit hard by now, with five loan signings again included in the squad, including Toni Kallio, who would join the club again on a temporary basis later in the season.
Nottingham Forest arrived at the Lane with automatic promotion in their sights, and put up another defensive display similar to last season which ensured they walked away with a point following a goalless draw.
As Christmas approached, the Blades were handed an early present as Kevin Blackwell’s men claimed a convincing victory over Neil Warnock’s Crystal Palace thanks to goals from Stephen Quinn and Lee Williamson.
Richard Cresswell grabbed a point for United when he cancelled out Mikele Leigertwood’s opener at Loftus Road, in what would prove to be the first of four goals he scored against QPR. It proved to be the last game in United’s unbeaten streak, as they were beaten 2-1 by Leicester City the following week. Henri Camara got his name on the scoresheet, but it wasn’t enough for Blackwell’s men.
The Blades finished the month at home to Preston North End, and they got back to winning ways thanks to Jamie Ward’s free-kick which eluded everybody before creeping in at the far post. The game also saw Derek Geary’s first start of the season.
Monthly grade: B
Monthly record: P6 W3 D2 L1 F6 A3 Pts 11 Pos 7th
Player of the month: Mark Bunn – The Blades only managed 6 goals in the 6 games throughout December, so it was their rearguard action that proved decisive in putting them back into contention. Bunn kept 3 of the 4 clean sheets to close out 2009.
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