Sheffield United Edges Hull City in Tense Championship Clash

SHEFFIELD, England — Sheffield United secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Hull City in a hard-fought Championship clash at Bramall Lane on Friday, January 24, 2025. The win propelled the Blades to the top of the league table, while Hull City remained mired in a relegation battle.

The home side dominated possession early, with Callum O'Hare coming close in the 20th minute, but his shot sailed wide. Hull City, however, showed resilience, with Regan Slater testing Sheffield United’s goalkeeper Michael Cooper midway through the first half. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Matty Jacob capitalized on a mis-hit cross from Cody Drameh to poke home the opener.

“It’s a sucker punch,” said Hull City manager Rubén Sellés. “We defended well for most of the game, but one moment of lapse cost us.”

Sheffield United doubled their lead in the 78th minute through substitute Joe Westley, who marked his EFL debut with a clinical finish. The Burnley loanee, who had only joined Swindon on loan the previous day, silenced the home crowd with his decisive strike.

Rob Kozluk, former Sheffield United defender and BBC Radio Sheffield pundit, praised the Blades’ second-half performance. “They regrouped and found their shape. Hull couldn’t handle the pressure,” he said.

With the win, Sheffield United moved to 61 points, one ahead of Leeds United, while Hull City remained in 18th place, just one point above the relegation zone. The Blades will look to maintain their momentum in their next fixture, while Hull City faces a must-win game to avoid slipping further into danger.