Overview
- Sheffield United struck twice from second-half set plays, triggering Stoke’s switch of Million Manhoef and Divin Mubama before a 58th‑minute quadruple change.
- Mark Robins brought on Ben Pearson, Lamine Cisse, Bae Junho and Robert Bozenik, and the hosts improved as Ben Wilmot pulled a goal back to make it 2-1.
- Pearson was sent off in the 88th minute for a last‑man foul on Patrick Bamford, and Stoke had a late penalty claim rejected when Bozenik was caught in the face.
- Robins said he made selection and tactical mistakes, admitting the team went “too long and aimless” and noting key absences such as Junior Tchamadeu and Lewis Baker.
- After some supporters booed Mubama’s withdrawal and Sam Gallagher’s substitution, Robins asked fans not to jeer players, stressing performance and selection are his responsibility.