Last updated on .From the section FA Cup

Nathan Thomas scored in his first game since 16 September

Nathan Thomas' spectacular long-range effort gave Sheffield United an away FA Cup third-round victory against fellow Championship side Ipswich Town.

Thomas scored in the 25th minute with a powerful strike that went into the top corner, past Town's Bartosz Bialkowksi.

Chris Basham, Regan Slater and Caolan Lavery missed chances for the visitors.

Ipswich, who have not won an FA Cup tie since January 2010, did not record a shot on target, but did have a late attempt as Luke Chambers headed wide.

The hosts thought they should have had a first-half penalty, claiming the ball struck Lavery's arm - but referee Michael Jones was not interested.

Sheffield United's victory was only their second in 10 matches, while Ipswich's winless run has now extended to five games.

The draw for the fourth round takes place on Monday, 8 January, and will be live on BBC Two from 19:00 GMT.

Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy:

"I thought we played well until the goal. I'm not unhappy with the performance, I'm unhappy with the result.

"We had an appeal for a penalty, which could have been given, but I've no idea what a penalty is now having seen them all this week.

"But it did hit his hand and it could have been given and then he fits one round the top corner... that was the difference in the game."

Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder:

"I think we had some good chances just after half-time to take the game away from the opposition so we were a bit frustrated that we didn't.

"Both teams made a few changes and fortunately our changes were just a touch better on the day than the opposition.

"It was a good goal... a cracking strike to win it. The consistency of the attitude by my team pleased me immensely and I have really enjoyed today."