By Tim Nash For Mailonline
Published: 19:43 GMT, 23 February 2019 | Updated: 19:44 GMT, 23 February 2019
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Gareth Barry's 38th birthday turned into a sour affair as Sheffield United returned to the Championship's two in a rousing game at The Hawthorns.
Veteran midfielder Barry, who was also making his 825th senior appearance, was also outjumped for the only goal of the game, scored by Kieran Dowell as Chris Wilder's side went second on goal difference above Leeds United to continue their fine run of form with one defeat in 11 Championship outings.
While the Blades maintained their impressive streak, West Brom suffered only their second defeat since New Year's Day to end a four-match unbeaten run.
Kieran Dowell (right) scored the only goal as Sheffield United beat West Brom
Dowell, on loan from Everton, scored in the 14th minute to hand the Blades three points
Dowell celebrates with his United team-mates after scoring against West Brom
West Bromwich (4-2-3-1): Johnstone; Holgate, Dawson, Hegazi, Gibbs; Livermore, Barry; Harper, Phillips, Gayle; Rodriguez.
Subs: Bond, Bartley, Johansen, Montero, Edwards, Adarabioyo, Field.
Sheffield United (4-4-2): Henderson; Crainie, Egan (Stearman 45 minutes), Johnson, Stevens; Fleck, Freeman, Norwood, Dowell; McGoldrick, Sharp.
Subs: Moore, Basham, Hogan, Madine, Coutts, Duffy.
Referee: Oliver Langford.
Attendance: 24,928
Star man: Kieran Dowell
And, based on this performance where they had to withstand plenty of attacking intent from West Brom, they looked a good bet to return to
