Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder admitted Middlesbrough were the superior side after his team’s 2-1 defeat at Bramall Lane, describing Boro as the best opponents the Blades have faced during his current spell in charge.
United were hoping to claim a seventh home win in eight Championship matches, which would have taken them closer to the play-off places, but they were second-best for large spells.
Middlesbrough took control through goals from Tommy Conway and Riley McGree before Patrick Bamford — a former Boro player — pulled one back late on.
The game swung further in the visitors’ favour when debutant Joe Rothwell was sent off for a reckless challenge on Alan Browne, a decision Wilder accepted.
“I thought they were the better team,” Wilder said. “In my opinion, they’re the best team we’ve played this season. We were just half a yard off it and didn’t commit properly to the press. When we did win it, we gave it away too easily.”
Wilder felt Boro’s shape caused constant problems, particularly in midfield, and admitted his side failed to manage key moments, including the second goal.
“We had our chances early, and Pat getting one back gave us hope, but the red card put us on the back foot,” he added.
On Rothwell’s dismissal, Wilder said there was little debate over the challenge. “Joe’s disappointed, but there’s no argument about it. It’s frustration — he hasn’t played much.”
The Blades boss also gave a debut to Kalvin Phillips and described the result as a “reality check,” acknowledging his side were slightly below their usual level against quality opposition.
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