After scoring a decent goal direct from a Marvin Ducksch free-kick, Blues then conceded a very preventable penalty – a handball when Jack Robinson mistakenly thought the ball had gone out of play. Whilst a brilliant save from James Beadle bailed Blues out, the Blades equalised with a goal from the clever Patrick Bamford, who proves that you save your energy and are selective about doing the hard yards. This is a point that Jay Stansfield needs to take on board. He must have covered a few miles just trying to close down the opposition keeper.

In fairness, Blues hit the woodwork four times but tended to over-elaborate and give the visitors an opportunity to get back in numbers. Until he went off (hopefully not injured) Ethan Laird was the one outstanding player but other than that most of the team were 6 and 7 out of 1O.

In truth, the subs made little difference although Carlos Vicente sent in a string of crosses which should have had August Priske’s name on them but didn’t and whether that’s Priske’s fault or Vincente’s must be open to debate.

Demarai Gray came on and flattered to deceive with trickery that still ended up with him being crowded out. Even playing with a back three, Blues failed to make their extra man count and one wonders whether spending an alleged £14 million on Vincente and Priske represents decent value for money.