FT: Sheffield United 2-1 Bournemouth

Blades boss Wilson said: “The three points are vital at this stage of the season. I wouldn’t say we were lucky to get them but I have to say we made it a little bit difficult for ourselves at the end.

“We were coasting at 2-0 but then we gave a sloppy goal away and it gave them a big lift.

“Up until the goal there was no pressure at all but it gave them the confidence to try and get an equaliser.”

Kevin McDonald blasted over from eight yards in the early stages and frustration was beginning to grow when Ched Evans volleyed home in the 34th minute after strike partner Richard Cresswell had challenged in the air for a cross from right-back Matt Lowton.

The Blades soon went 2-0 up after the break when Cresswell converted a low cross from Evans despite having been bundled to the floor in the six-yard area.

Cresswell’s job was done and he was replaced in the 58th minute by Bolton loanee Michael O’Halloran.

Bournemouth were handed a 67th-minute lifeline when Zavon Hines nudged Steve Simonsen as he prepared to roll the ball out to Lowton and it ran loose from the goalkeeper’s grasp, allowing the Burnley loan striker a simple tap-in.

The goal stood despite Simonsen’s protests.

Ryann Flynn replaced Stephen Quinn in the closing stages for the nervy Blades as Bournemouth’s third substitute, striker Lyle Taylor, caused them problems.

The Blades held on, however, to go back above the Owls.

For a full report read Sports Monday in the Yorkshire Post.