On-loan defender Gary Cahill's first-half header gave Sheffield United three points from their trip to Stoke.
Blades extend unbeaten run
On-loan defender Gary Cahill's first-half header gave Sheffield United a somewhat fortunate three points from their trip to Stoke.
Cahill struck just before the interval as the home side failed to deal with David Carney's corner from the right and Danny Webber was allowed to fizz the ball back across the box for the Aston Villa man to head home.
The Britannia Stadium victory extended Bryan Robson's side's unbeaten run to six games, but Stoke have now suffered three successive home defeats.
Rory Delap pressed Ian Bennett into early action before the Blades defence had to be alert to block a stinging drive from the same player.
The visitors mounted their first attack of note after 30 minutes and Stoke were made to pay for their missed chances when Cahill struck.
Tony Pulis' side continued to press after the interval and it took a superb challenge from Cahill to deny Ricardo Fuller.
Stoke pressed forward as the clock ran down and Fuller saw his penalty claims waved away before Bennett produced an impressive save to deny Ryan Shawcross.