Sheffield United bagged a vital win in their quest for an automatic promotion spot last night, winning 1-0 against a resolute Middlesbrough side at Bramall Lane.

Boro were the kings of the narrow margin victories earlier in the season and with the capitulation against Villa still fresh in Blades' fans minds, this could have gone the other way.

Instead, Chris Wilder's side turned in a strong and commanding performance, countering Boro's direct approach with a slick passing game.

They grabbed the winning goal just after the hour mark courtesy of Richard Stearman, but it was another defender that had fans purring post match. John Egan was one of their big money signings in the summer and he was strong at the back yet again.

He drew comparisons with bricks walls and with rocks, giving an indication of exactly how strong he was last night. Many had him earmarked as Man of the Match, but for the player that won't matter. His side are now just two points behind Norwich with a slightly superior goal difference.

If the back three keep shutting teams out, we might yet see Egan and the Blades in the top flight next season.