BLADES PASS THEIR TEST IN STYLE

ON PAPER, this looked like a real test of Sheffield United’s promotion credentials and they passed the test with flying colours.

Southend United have been able to turn around their own season after a slow start and went into the game at Roots Hall unbeaten in their last 13 games.

Phil Brown’s side also triumphed 3-0 at Bramall Lane back in August but were unable to see off the Blades this time around, as the table-toppers deservedly recorded a sixth win in succession.

Chris Wilder’s side took just three minutes to open the scoring and, aside from a 20-minute spell towards the end of the first half, they were largely untroubled.

And, on this showing, any conversation of promotion contenders must begin with the Blades.