The Blades boosted their promotion hopes last night after securing an important 1-0 win over Reading last night. 

Iliman Ndiaye slotted home a tight cross from teammate Oli McBurnie to grasp a win against mid table side Reading. 

The Senegalese striker deserved a goal after creating several chances in the first half. Ten minutes into the second half he was able to put away a close range chance, ultimately winning them the game, however he was hauled off injured seven minutes after scoring his 12th goal of the season for United.

The Blades enjoyed two-thirds of possession and grew into the game after a quiet first half, but Reading carried the greater threat, despite not challenging keeper Wes Foderingham. 

Sheffield United now move seven points clear of Middlesbrough, chasing Burnley who lead the table, ten points clear of the Blades. 

Callum Ratcliffe, a lifelong supporter said; “The win was massive. A season definer, if we didn’t win I don’t think we would have got automatics. A big momentum boost.” 

United had been in poor form, with Saturday’s 1-0 loss at Blackburn their third defeat in four league outings.

The win has solidified their position in the automatic promotion places as they look to  kick start a good run of form through to the end of the season. 

Lifelong season ticket holder Matt Staniforth said after the game: “The fans and the club are so tightly knit, sold out grounds week in week out and promotion would solidify everyone’s love for the Blades.”

“The result last night was superb, it was great to bounce back from a tough loss against Blackburn and would cement our place in the automatic promotion places.” 

It was their fifth successive win at Madejski Stadium which ended the Royals’ seven-match unbeaten run at home, stretching back to 4 November, and leaves Paul Ince’s side in 15th, 11 points adrift of the play-off places.

Paul Heckingbottom was satisfied with his team’s performance but will strive to play with more intensity and flair going into their next league games. 

Sheffield United fans have voted for Oli McBurnie as their Man of the Match after a crucial assist provided them with the winner.