Sheffield Wednesday completed an historic double over Sheffield United today at Bramall Lane as the Blades lack of creativity was apparent for all to see.
The Owls took the lead inside the first minute when Tommy Spurr side-footed home after a clever cut back from Jermaine Johnson.
The Blades equalised inside five minutes through new signing Arturo Lupoli following a long throw from Greg Halford.
This was typical of what United had to offer as the midfield was largely bypassed with long balls up-front and the home side created little other than hopeful launches into the box.
Wednesday went back in front just before the half hour with an exquisite strike from Marcus Tudgay and were unlucky not to extend the lead early in the second half when Leon Clarke struck the woodwork with an instinctive volley.
The home side huffed and puffed but despite plenty of possession failed to create any clear cut chances of note. Creative midfielder Brian Howard was substituted after making little impact on the game, his signing has to be questioned if United are to continue playing long balls without trying to pass through teams.
The introduction of Blades fan Billy Sharp gave the home side some hope and he provided a fine cross which nobody reacted to and then saw a snap shot excellently saved by Lee Grant.
However, overall one of the most expensively assembled and kept teams in the Coca-Cola Championship offered little against a well organised and tidy Owls side as the visitors celebrated their first league victory at Bramall Lane since 1967.