Sheffield United took control of their Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final by defeating 10-man Bristol City 3-0 at Ashton Gate.
Harrison Burrows opened the scoring for the Blades with a penalty just before halftime, while substitutes Andre Brooks and Callum O’Hare extended the lead in the final stages of the game.
The crucial moment of the match occurred in first-half stoppage time when Rob Dickie brought down Kieffer Moore, who was clean through on goal, resulting in a red card for Dickie.
Burrows doubled the lead with a confidently converted penalty, before Brooks and O’Hare added more goals in a span of six minutes, leaving Sheffield United fans excited about their chances of reaching Wembley ahead of the second leg at Bramall Lane on Monday.
Bristol City, who were playing in the Championship play-offs for the first time in 17 years, finished the season in sixth place, 22 points behind the Blades.
Despite City having more possession, Sheffield United posed a greater threat in attack throughout the game.
The second half was dominated by United's attacking play, with O’Hare and Moore combining to set up Brooks for the second goal, followed by O’Hare sealing the victory with a close-range finish.