It was plume of red smoke rather than a puff of white which greeted Sheffield United's third goal at Ashton Gate but it still looked a decisive moment in the first Championship play-off semi-final.

Sheffield United finished third in the Championship this season, 10 points behind Leeds United and Burnley, though they enter the play-offs having been by far the best of the four sides since August. Contrastingly, Bristol City only clinched a play-off place with a final-day draw against Preston North End, finishing on 68 points.

"Joke" - Sheffield United fans left fuming after potentially key decision in Bristol City play-off clash Sheffield United fans were left fuming at a controversial decision to deny their side a vital opener in the first leg of their play-off semi-final at Bristol City this evening.