Sheffield United 3 Worcester City 0: Early warning put Blades on guard against shock

Goals from Jose Baxter, Conor Sammon and Kieron Freeman secured United’s spot in tonight’s second-round draw, but National North part-timers Worcester were far from disgraced.

It was a physical test Campbell-Ryce expected, after watching his former club County knocked out of the competition 24 hours earlier by non-league Salford City.

“Anybody who thought we were going to rock up today and win 8-0 was hugely mistaken, these games are never easy,” said the Blades winger. “You only have to look at Salford v Notts County on Friday night. Salford were unbelievable and gave a great account of themselves.

“I watched the Notts County game and it was like an eye-opener. I thought ‘wow, tomorrow is going to be the exact same’, and it was very similar.

“Salford were brilliant, and I thought Worcester gave a good account of themselves. I am just thankful that we showed our professionalism, good attitude, and came out winners.”

The recalled George Long had to be alert to tip over Connor Gater’s long-range effort, before United took the le ad on 19 minutes. Che Adams broke into the area, only to be felled by Sam Minihan, and Baxter converted the spot-kick.

The fact United to wait until the 81st minute for a second, owed much to goalkeeper Nathan Vaughan, who made a couple of outstanding saves.

Campbell-Ryce turn provider, whipping in a low cross for Sammon to flick home, before Freeman netted a late third from close range, despite looking offside.

Sheffield United: Long, Freeman, Collins, Basham (McGahey 85), Harris, Campbell-Ryce, Coutts (Reed 88), Hammond, Baxter, Adams (Scougall 32), Sammon. Unused substitutes: Howard, Sharp, Done, K Wallace.

Worcester City: Vaughan, Miniham (Weir 51), Thomas, Sharpe, Gudger, Gater (Dunkley 60), Deeney, Nti, Jackman, Vincent (Harrad 74), Burton. Unused substitutes: Ross, Smith, Waldron, Brown.

Referee: S Bennett.

Man of the match: Jose Baxter.