Analysis The numbers behind the result
Sheffield Utd edge tight contest with superior shot volume
Sheffield Utd's narrow 1-0 victory broadly reflected the balance of play, with their 1.14 xG slightly outperforming Wrexham's 0.66. The Blades' marginal possession advantage (55%) translated into more dangerous opportunities, registering 13 total shots to Wrexham's 9, with 4 on target compared to the visitors' solitary effort. Ben Brereton's 30th-minute strike proved decisive, converting one of Sheffield's 11 shots inside the box - a reflection of their superior territorial dominance.
Wrexham's defensive approach limited clear-cut chances (just 1 blocked shot all game), but their lack of attacking threat - evidenced by 0 corners and only 1 shot on target - meant they never seriously troubled the Sheffield goal. The hosts' greater shot volume (13 attempts to 9) and higher proportion of dangerous efforts (4 on target vs 1) justified the scoreline, though the single-goal margin flattered Wrexham given the shot differential. The key stat: Sheffield Utd produced 4 shots on target to Wrexham's 1, underlining their superior chance creation.