Sheffield United verdict: Statement sent as Championship rivals stumble

Sheffield United sent a huge statement of intent in the race for a play-off place with victory against Cardiff City at Bramall Lane. The Blades held their nerve on a day that saw all those below them fail to hold theirs and Paul Heckingbottom's men now have one foot in the top six.

In a week where all the talk was about a potential takeover, United's players brought focus firmly back to matters on the pitch.

American businessman Henry Mauriss may well have been watching today's events from across the pond as United entertained the Bluebirds looking to maintain their advantage on the chasing pack. They kicked off the day in sixth place but a run of only one win in five matches had left them clinging on to that final play-off spot.

Victory against a side with nothing but pride to play for was a must if the Blades were to keep destiny in their own hands. The return of Billy Sharp to the matchday squad was a huge boost with the hosts having missed their talisman.

Ben Osborn was United's only change from the 1-1 draw at Bristol City last weekend, coming in on the right for George Baldock, who missed out with a hamstring injury and it was the midfielder-turned-wing-back who had United's first sight of goal on 14 minutes. A rasping half volley from the edge of the area that was pushed away by Dillon Phillips, low to his left.

However, that came after a really nervy opening 10-minute spell that saw the home side fortunate not to be behind.

Max Watters raced through on goal after beating John Egan far too easily and leaving him trailing, but luckily for United and with only the keeper to beat he produced a weak sidefoot effort straight at Wes Foderingham. The keeper then had a real heart-in-the-mouth moment three minutes later