Shrewsbury 1-2 Sheffield United: Blades keep play-off hopes alive

Sheffield United kept alive their slim play-off challenge with a 2-1 win at lowly Shrewsbury.

The hosts squandered an early chance to move ahead when they were awarded a seventh-minute penalty after United defender Jay McEveley handled Sullay Kaikai's cross.

Kyle Vassell took the spot-kick but his effort was comfortably saved by goalkeeper George Long.

United then added to Shrewsbury's frustration by moving ahead in the 19th minute thanks to Billy Sharp's 20th goal of the season.

Ryan Flynn slipped a pass through to Sharp and he fired low to the corner of the net past Jayson Leutwiler from just inside the penalty area.

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Sharp had earlier drilled just off target after exchanging passes with strike partner Che Adams.

Shrewsbury, who are just two points clear of the relegation zone, pressed for an equaliser and Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro's shot was well kept out by Long before skipper Nat Knight-Percival's header was hacked to safety.

The home side finally pulled level nine minutes into the second half when midfielder Abu Ogogo turned in Kaikai's low cross from the right from 10 yards.

But United, who sit four points outside the play-off places, claimed maximum points in the 66th minute when Adams fired in a low angled drive from the edge of the area.