SHEFFIELD UNITED 3, OLDHAM ATHLETIC 0
Oldham Athletic’s seven match unbeaten run came to an end following a heavy defeat at Sheffield United.
And it was a loss that leaves Latics entrenched in the Sky Bet League One relegation places, though other results among the basement clubs went their way.
But the loss makes it even more imperative they cash in on back-to-back home league games against Blackpool and Rochdale in the coming week.
Latics, who had already lost 1-0 at Bramall Lane this season in the FA Cup, made a disappointing start conceding early goals from John Brayford and Ryan Flynn while a second-half strike from Billy Sharp sealing victory.
Manager John Sheridan began with a 4-4-2 line up with former Blades’ player Jonathan Forte and Aaron Amadi-Holloway leading the front line.
Captain Liam Kelly, one booking away from a two-match ban, was not risked as he was an unused substitute. This weekend was the cut-off point for suspensions.
Carl Winchester was drafted into midfield while Joseph Mills replaced Danny Lafferty at left back as the loanee has returned to Burnley.
Brayford opened the scoring after 10 minutes with a volley from the edge of the box after Latics failed to clear danger.
The Blades were dominating the game in the absence of Kelly with Che Adams forcing a save from Joel Coleman.
Little over 20 minutes had gone and the hosts were 2-0 ahead when Flynn latched on to a pass and raced clear before rounding Coleman and slotting home.
It prompted a tactical rejig as Sheridan switched to 3-5-2 with Mills and Cameron Dummigan as wing backs.
This gave Latics an extra man in the centre of midfield and it succeeded by relieving the pressure. They enjoyed more possession, but didn’t force keeper George Long into action.
The Blades almost added a third goal just before half time when Matt Done dragged a shot wide with Sharp, rushing in, just failing to connect.
Latics changed formations again at the break to 4-3-3 bringing on striker Curtis Main for Dummigan to try and find the attacking bite that had been lacking.
And main almost made an immediate impact as Matt Palmer found the Doncaster Rovers loanee whose shot was turned round the post by keeper Long.
Brian Wilson and debutant Timmy Thiele were brought on just short of the hour for Mike Jones and Holloway, the last two throws of the dice.
Main was certainly keen to impress and a 30-yard drive struck the underside of the bar and bounced out.
Sheffield weathered the mini storm and sealed victory through Sharp with 13 minutes left.
Sharp was set up by Brayford who eluded a defender before firing home a low shot.
Latics had a couple of late efforts from Mills and Gerrard to get a consolation effort, but it was a case of too little, too late as their good run came to an end.