6:54pm Saturday 30th September 2006
By Paul Fraser
Sheffield United 2 Middlesbrough 1 AIYEGBENI YAKUBU reminded Middlesbrough supporters of his potency in front of goal but that failed to prevent an alarming defeat at Premiership newcomers Sheffield United.
The Nigerian, with his first since scoring in the opening day 3-2 defeat at Reading, raced clear of the Blades defence to latch on to Emanuel Pogatetz's volleyed clearance that opened up the hosts four minutes after half-time.
With United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny reluctant to charge out of his box, Yakubu steadied himself before picking his spot into the right hand corner of the Irishman's net.
But Sheffield United captain Phil Jagielka struck a stunning 30 yard strike beyond Mark Schwarzer in injury time to pile the misery on Boro boss Gareth Southgate.
A point would not really have been what Southgate had been looking for against the side propping up the Premiership table but, considering the late developments, he would have settled for it now.
After escaping two glorious chances from Jonathan Woodgate and Yakubu in the opening half an hour, Neil Warnock's men were rewarded on 35 minutes when striker Rob Hulse slotted past Schwarzer to put the hosts ahead.
They then had chances to extend their lead but, in the end, Yakubu finally delivered in front of goal to pull the sides level.
But then Jagielka struck to ensure that it remains just one win in seven league games under the new manager on Teesside and Southgate knows home victories over Everton and Newcastle are essential if he is to avoid a relegation struggle in his first season in charge.
SHEFFIELD UNITED (4-4-1-1): Kenny; Bromby, Davis, Jagielka, Armstrong; Gillespie (Nade 89), Leigertwood, Tonge, Kazim-Richards (Webber 77); Quinn (Kabba 77); Hulse. Subs (not used): Morgan, Kozluk.
MIDDLESBROUGH (4-4-2): Schwarzer, Davies, Woodgate, Pogatetz, Taylor; Morrison (Mendieta 72), Cattermole, Rochemback, Downing; Yakubu, Viduka. Subs (not used): Parnaby, Turnbull, Maccarone, Bates.
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