Blades are too sharp for careless Canaries

Norwich City began the day hoping to climb to the top of the Nationwide League First Division but ended it wondering where it all went wrong, as the Canaries lost their unbeaten record this season after a disastrous first half in which they found themselves 3-0 down to Sheffield United. A belated fightback brought some reward, but the Blades hung on for a 3-2 triumph.

It took Neil Warnock's men just 38 seconds to shock the Norfolk faithful, Michael Brown firing home from close range. The Yorkshire outfit doubled that advantage four minutes later when Michael Tonge shot their second goal.

It became even worse for the home side in the 31st minute when Darren Kenton brought down Tonge in the penalty area to give Carl Asaba a chance from the spot, which he took calmly.

The Blades were reduced to 10 men in the 40th minute when their striker Iffy Onuora was dismissed for violent conduct, but it took Norwich until five minutes from full time, when Paul McVeigh scored, to make anything of their numerical advantage. The big defender Malky Mackay added another goal for the Canaries in injury time, but it was too little, too late.

Millwall brought their recent indifferent form to an end, with Darren Ward heading the only goal in a 1-0 home win over Brighton. Watford had a 2-0 success over Walsall, who had Danny Sonner sent off for violent conduct, at Vicarage Road. Tommy Smith broke the deadlock in the second half, with Dominic Foley sealing the points.

Wigan Athletic eased to a 3-0 home win over Wyc-ombe Wanderers to replace Brentford, who were held at home 0-0 by Luton Town, at the top of the Second Division. Lee McCulloch's early goal was followed by two from Andy Liddell. Rushden & Diamonds lead the Third on goal difference after a 3-0 home victory over Southend United.