Sheffield United faced a challenging night at Bramall Lane, losing 2-1 to Southampton. Chris Wilder, the United manager, was dismissed after accidentally hitting a fan with a ball he kicked in frustration. This incident occurred after Tyrese Campbell's goal had given the Blades an early lead, and Adam Armstrong missed a penalty for Southampton.
Wilder's frustration was evident as he left the pitch at half-time, leading to his unfortunate red card from referee Adam Herczeg. The second half saw Ross Stewart score twice within seven minutes, overturning Sheffield's advantage. Sydie Peck also had a goal disallowed during this tumultuous match.
The defeat marked Sheffield United's fourth consecutive home loss this season, their worst start since 1954.
Despite their recent victory over Oxford United, they remain at the bottom of the table after suffering seven defeats. Their struggles against Southampton continue, having lost five consecutive matches against them.
Narrow defeat at Bramall Lane. pic.twitter.com/wBdsvlB7n6Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) September 30, 2025
Middlesbrough and Stoke City ended their top-of-the-table clash in a goalless draw at Riverside Stadium. Rob Edwards, Middlesbrough's manager, expressed disappointment over a denied penalty for Tommy Conway. Meanwhile, Demarai Gray scored a dramatic equaliser for Birmingham City against Sheffield Wednesday in a 2-2 draw.
Bristol City and Leicester City both secured 1-1 draws at home against Ipswich Town and Wrexham respectively. Charlton Athletic and Derby County also shared the spoils with the same scoreline. Preston North End maintained their sixth position following a 2-2 draw with Hull City, where Oli McBurnie's double cancelled out Preston's two-goal lead.
Swansea City emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Blackburn Rovers thanks to Liam Cullen's decisive second-half goal. These results highlight the competitive nature of the Championship this season.
Despite Sheffield United's recent win against Oxford United, their ongoing struggles are evident as they remain rooted to the bottom of the table. Their inability to capitalise on first-half opportunities against Southampton proved costly as Will Still’s side converted both shots on target in the second half.
