Burnley's low-scoring player ratings vs Sheffield United as unbeaten run comes to an end
Burnley sacrificed their long unbeaten run in the Championship with a second half implosion against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
The Clarets’ stretch last 16 games, though it looked as though it could have been prolonged as they led 2-1 at the interval in South Yorkshire.
Manuel Benson’s double, scored either side of Iliman Ndiaye’s equaliser, had given the visitors the advantage at the home of the Blades.
But Paul Heckingbotham’s side scored four second half goals to close the gap on the league leaders to three points while owning a game in hand.
Scotsman Oli McBurnie, a constant thorn in Burnley’s side, scored twice after the break while Jack Robinson and Anel Ahmedhodzic netted in-between.
Here are the ratings.
But Paul Heckingbotham’s side scored four second half goals to close the gap on the league leaders to three points while owning a game in hand.
5. IAN MAATSEN 4
Rifled an effort off the top of the crossbar in the first half and partnered well with Anass Zaroury. However, the petrol light was on orange in the second half as the Chelsea loan star failed to compete with the presence of Oli McBurnie, the physicality of Anel Ahmedhodzic and the running of George Baldock, who he failed to track in the lead up to the Blades' fifth and final goal. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
6. JOSH CULLEN 4
The Republic of Ireland international was isolated by Oli McBurnie as the Scotsman towered over his marker to set up Iliman Ndiaye. Managed to break up play and spread the ball in the first half, but his influence waned in the second half as Sheffield United took ownership of the second balls. Booked for a foul on Anel Ahmedhodzic. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
7. JACK CORK 4
Battled well in the first half and provided a layer of protection that would limit the home side's openings. The skipper, however, lost his way after the break, didn't take command when Burnley needed it the most, and wasn't able to make up the ground as United populated the midfield and played through the banks with relative ease. Fatigue seemed to take hold early in the second half. Photo: CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
8. SAMUEL BASTIEN 3.5
Played as the most advanced of Burnley's midfield three, in the absence of Josh Brownhill, but couldn't provide the link between midfield and attack. The game seemed to pass him by and, after his anonymity heightened, he was withdrawn just before the hour and replaced by Johann Berg Gudmundsson. Tasked with sitting on Oli Norwood, to prevent the Burnley-born ball-player from influencing proceedings, but struggled to tie him up. All that being said, the scoreline was 2-2 on his withdrawal. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd