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Billy Sharp's early strike was his third goal of the season and he added a fourth in injury-time

Billy Sharp grabbed a double as Sheffield United made it three wins from three home Championship games this season with an impressive display against Derby County.

Sharp's measured 20-yard shot after a rushed kick by keeper Scott Carson put the Blades ahead and Johnny Russell's own goal made it 2-0 by half-time.

Substitute Craig Bryson's injury-time header gave the Rams hope.

But with Carson upfield as Derby chased an equaliser, Sharp added a third.

Sharp's 98th-minute finish finally settled home nerves, but Derby were second best throughout, only managing one shot on target before Bryson's neat header from Bradley Johnson's cross.

The Rams had won their past two Championship fixtures - and three in league and cup - but failed to deal with United's high tempo and energy even before Sharp's fourth-minute goal.

Johnny Russell's own goal put the Blades in control

Matej Vydra shot narrowly over the bar before the break, but most of their efforts did not pose a serious threat.

The Blades, who move up to fifth, seven places above Derby, looked brighter throughout and Sharp could have sealed victory before the injury-time drama but his strike was well saved by Carson.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder:

"You want to marry a good performance with a decent result, and I believe we've had both today.

"This was our biggest test at home this season, against quality opposition and a quality manager, and I'm delighted that we've played well and won.

"We can say that we aren't here just to make the numbers up or be the whipping boys, and any team that plays us, especially here, is going to have to do a lot of things very, very well to get a result against us."

Derby County manager Gary Rowett:

"The first 20 minutes really summed up our problems. I spoke to the players about what to expect.

"We knew it was going to be a high-intensity game, the likes of Sheffield United are going to see teams like Derby and try and outwork them, outfight them and make it uncomfortable for them.

"You've got to match that intensity in any Championship game, but in particular away from home, and we didn't do that."