Sheffield United had to settle for a point in a scrappy game against Oldham Athletic at Bramall Lane after surrendering a one-goal lead in the 6th minute of second half injury time.

Chances in the first half were few and far between with the hosts only having a wild shot from Kevin McDonald to show for their efforts. Oldham believed they had taken the lead in the 18 minute when Matt Derbyshire put the ball in the net after the Blades ‘keeper George Long had parried Robbie Simpson’s shot but he was denied by the assistant referee.

There was no other significant action in the first half and the half-time whistle came as a relief to most fans in the ground.

Sheffield United began well after the match resumed with some neat play resulting in a driven shot from captain Michael Doyle that was brilliantly saved by Dean Bouzanis. They eventually managed to get a goal after Jean Yves Mvoto fouled Dave Kitson in the penalty area. Nick Blackman expertly dispatched the spot-kick.

Oldham reacted well to going behind and they began to get more adventurous with their play, which culminated in Matt Derbyshire forcing George Long into a save from inside the area when he really should have done better. As the game entered into the final stages Sheffield United had a great chance to take all three points when Ryan Flynn was put through on goal but after shaking off defenders he could only pull his shot agonisingly wide of goal.

That missed Flynn opportunity proved to be vital as Oldham forced an equaliser in the 96th minute when Matt Smith side-footed in Jose Baxter’s hopeful cross to leave the home support stunned. That proved to be the final action of a slightly disappointing match with Sheffield United feeling like they really should have done better and Oldham being satisfied with a point.