This Saturday at the Riverside Stadium, at the brisk hour of 12:30 BST, we witness a clash emblematic of early Championship drama as Middlesbrough host Sheffield United. Middlesbrough, rejuvenated under the guidance of Rob Edwards, boast a pristine record with three wins from three, sharing the top spot with Stoke. Yet, in the opposite corner, Sheffield United and their new manager Ruben Selles find themselves in turbulent waters, having suffered three consecutive defeats, nestled uncomfortably at the table's base alongside Oxford United.
Middlesbrough’s stronghold over Sheffield United in recent times at the Riverside is unmistakable. They’re unbeaten in their last eight encounters on home soil against the Blades, accumulating six wins and two draws, and maintaining six clean sheets since a defeat back in October 1997.
Yet, the Blades carved out a victory in their last meeting, with a convincing 3-1 win in February. They aim to knit together consecutive victories over Boro for the first time since the triumphant streak in September 2006.
As Middlesbrough eyes their fourth consecutive victory to start a season, an achievement not seen since the 1994-95 season which heralded their promotion to the Premier League, Sheffield United are desperate to avoid a repeat of the 1995-96 season, where they also lost their first four matches.
Ironically, Middlesbrough comes off a streak of three consecutive defeats to Yorkshire sides, a fragile spot Sheffield United would be keen to exploit to turn their nightmarish start around.
As history and form collide, Saturday presents not just a football match but a narrative of redemption and affirmation. For Middlesbrough, continuing their impressive start is paramount, but for Sheffield United and the loyal Blades travelling to support, it's about reigniting the fighting spirit that our club is renowned for. It’s about proving that the tough start is but a hiccup in what could be a story of stirring revival.
And to wrap up, a bit of light-hearted banter aimed at our neighbours: "How many Sheffield Wednesday fans does it take to change a light bulb? None! They're still waiting for it to come back on since the last time they were in the Premiership!"
