The Mercury Issue 1565

The Region’s Number One Entertainment & Classifieds Newspaper

Sheffield VenueS Shine in european rankingS

Sheffield City Hall and Utilita Arena Sheffield are celebrating their best-ever performances in the latest European venue rankings for the live entertainment industry.

Sheffield City Hall is the UK’s favourite theatre, surpassing the likes of the Royal Albert Hall and York Barbican. The City’s Grade II listed building was the highest UK theatre, achieving 3rd position in the European ranking of tickets sold, behind only Germany’s Mitsubishi Electric Halle and 3Olympia Theatre in Ireland.

Utilita Arena Sheffield also secured an impressive ranking. As the UK’s 6th best arena, the venue operated by

Sheffield City Trust has achieved its highest ever position after an outstanding year of world-class acts, such as Peter Kay, Gladiators, and Pulp coming to Sheffield.

Andrew Snelling, Chief Executive at Sheffield City Trust, commented, “We are thrilled with the latest results for our entertainment venues.

Sheffield City Hall holds a special place in many Sheffielders’ hearts and achieving No.1 position in the UK is testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. With over 370 events taking place in these 2 venues alone, we are incredibly proud of our contribution to the vibrant arts and culture scene here in Sheffield.”

The annual rankings, covering the period from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2024, showcase the best of Europe’s live entertainment scene, including top tours, venues, and promoters. Reviewing both number of tickets sold and the value of those tickets highlights the impact that the venues have on the local Sheffield economy.

Recent research highlights that music tourism alone is worth more than £92 million to the local economy every year.

Dom Stokes, Director of Live Events and Venues at Sheffield City Trust, added:

“These rankings are great to see but cement what we all know in

Sheffield – that Utilita Arena Sheffield and Sheffield City Hall are two of the best venues in Europe. With over 120 years of live event history and heritage between them, these venues and the teams who work so hard behind them put Sheffield on the entertainment map day in and day out. A special

shout out as well goes out to every promoter, events right holder, act, and agent who come through our doors and partner with us. Without them we couldn’t do what we do. The most exciting thing though is these stats tell the story from last year… but 2024 is already looking to be a blockbuster!”

COMEDY STARS UNITE FOR CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

Join The Children’s Hospital Charity Patrons Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont (stars of Meet the Richardsons) for a night of stand-up comedy on the 15th May, raising money for the amazing Sheffield Children’s Hospital!

Joining them on the evening will be Alan Carr (stand-up and TV legend), Russell Kane (Live at the Apollo, Stupid Man, Smart Phone) Fatiha El-Ghorri (Jonathan Ross Show, Russell Howard Hour)

and Maisie Adam (8 Out Of 10 Cats, Mock the Week, QI).

This is the second annual comedy night helping to change lives at Sheffield Children’s. Get your tickets today for a night of giggles and giving. Jon and Lucy have been patrons of The Children’s Hospital Charity since 2021, supporting Sheffield Children’s in fundraising efforts that work to change children’s lives. This year they have launched the campaign ‘Bright Young Dreams’

alongside fellow patrons Dan Walker and Jessica Ennis-Hill. This campaign aims to raise £5 million in 2024 for The Children’s Hospital Charity to help tackle the global mental health crisis. The funds will go towards a strategic action plan and infrastructure at Sheffield Children’s, as well asmuch needed research.

Tickets are available from the Sheffield City Hall Box Office or by visiting sheffieldcityhall. co.uk

3/4/1043 Edward the Confessor is crowned King of England.

04/4/1964 The Beatles occupy the top five positions on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart.

05/4/1955 Winston Churchill resigns as Prime Minister amid indications of failing health.

across

6) Stacks of cash (4, 2, 5)

8) Barrel (3)

9) Skin tumour (3)

10) Lock jaw (7)

12) Medically attend (5)

13) Long, wide scarf (5)

14) Sharp (5)

15) Long nails (5)

16) Very well built (5)

19) Force (5)

20) Grand house (7)

21) Steal (3)

23) Limb (3)

24) Referrer to the famous (4-7)

DoWN

1) Rioting group (3)

2) Thing of value (5)

3) Edible viscera (5)

4) Extra benefit (5)

5) Not many (3)

6) Oiling and greasing (11)

7) Tropical disease (6, 5)

10) Temper fit (7)

11) Blue

3rd April - 9th April

06/4/1199 King Richard I dies from an infection following the removal of an arrow from his shoulder.

Which cheese can be used to hide a small horse? Mascarpone!

I called work this morning and whispered, “Sorry boss, I can’t come in today. I have a wee cough.” He exclaimed, “You have a wee cough?”

I said, “Really? Thanks boss, see you next week!”

A armed man robs a bank with 2 CDs glued to his glasses. The cashier hands the man all the money then says “got to ask, what’s with the CDs?” He replies “it’s my disk-eyes”

“Doctor, Doctor, I think I need glasses”

“You certainly do, Sir, this is a fish and chip shop”

I got fired from my job at the bank today. A woman asked me to check her balance... So I pushed her over.

When it’s sunny I think ‘Beer garden.’ When it rains I usually go to the pub for a while. When it’s snowing I like to sit in front of the TV with a case of Beer.

I’m starting to think I have a problem with the weather.

Just been on a diabetes awareness website and it asked me if I accept cookies.

Is that a trick question?

So I’ve started a sarcasm club. It would mean the world to me if you joined.

I bought a massive fish from the supermarket today, and when I got home I found out that all its insides were missing. Gutted.

1. Spanish company Lladro is a well-known maker of which ceramic material used to create vases or other objects of art?

2. In Britain, a ‘Smoggie’ is a resident of which city?

3. Which is the only British county with two coastlines?

4. In the Mr. Men series, what colour is Mr. Tickle?

5. Which Simpsons character has the catchphrase ‘haw haw!’?

6. Which title is given to the wife of a Duke?

7. Which British female singer headlined the Pyramid Stage on Saturday night at Glastonbury 2016?

8. Which UK TV soap was created by Kevin Laffan in 1972?

9. Donna Sheridan, Sophie and Sam Carmichael are characters from which well-known West End musical which also enjoyed movie success?

10. End of Watch is a novel by which US horror author?

Cultural heritage and pop music culture will soon collide as Sheffield Cathedral and Leeds based Paradox Orchestra announce a ‘reyt’ special Yorkshire musical collaboration.

On 16 May, the ancient walls of Sheffield Cathedral will reverberate to the classic sounds of music legends Pink Floyd when Paradox Orchestra bring their nationwide sell-out tour ’50 Years of Pink Floyd’ to Sheffield. This will be the first of four concerts this year to be performed by the string orchestra at the cathedral, with a percentage of the proceeds being donated to the Cathedral Archer Project, a charity offering life-changing support and assistance to homeless and vulnerable people. Paradox Orchestra is a leading 21st century orchestra made up of the finest professional musicians in Yorkshire.The orchestra was founded by Leeds Conservatoire graduate Michael Sluman and its concert series celebrates a diverse range of music genres, from classic rock to RnB: “I’m thrilled to be bringing the orchestra to Sheffield Cathedral, a building steeped in rich musical heritage. Performing at such an iconic Yorkshire music venue will help the orchestra to elevate itself to a much wider audience within the Yorkshire region,” said Michael. “We aim to overcome orchestral stereotypes through collaboration, diversity, innovation and increasing access to music, a vision I know we share with the cathedral. This partnership will allow us to continue our work in the wider community whilst supporting and raising funds for local charities and education

services.”

The cathedral’s Events and Operations Manager Emma Gittins said: “This building has wonderful acoustics, so it is a great place to play and listen to music. Also, with their commitment to community and education, the partnership ticks many boxes for the cathedral. I’m sure it will be a great success.”

On behalf of the Cathedral Archer Project, CEO Tim Renshaw said: “We’re very grateful to be part of this event with Paradox Orchestra and Sheffield Cathedral. This is a real opportunity with professional musicians who are interested in how music can be part of somebody’s growth and development, particularly coming from experiences of homelessness, addiction, or other disadvantaged situations. We know that music can be incredibly therapeutic, and a collaboration like this linking classical with Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac, I think will appeal to a lot of people we support.

The fact that they can go along and look at how those instruments work together with a chance to engage and play, it’s really good to have this interaction between high quality music and people recovering from homelessness.”

The cathedral and Paradox Orchestra hope this is the start of a lasting relationship. Tickets for ‘50

Years of Pink Floyd’ on 16 May, are already on sale with a second concert, ‘Orchestral Tribute to Fleetwood Mac’, in the calendar for 12 July. Two more performances, one in the autumn and a Christmas concert for the family are also being planned.

flOOdING aREa advICE

Flooding is becoming a frequent problem in many areas of the UK, due to the unexpected arrival of heavy rain or sudden storms like the ongoing Storm Nelson.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, approximately 6.1 million people in the UK currently live in flood prone areas, with additional at-risk areas identified due to rising sea levels or increasing temperatures. Specialists have shared some essential advice to help protect your home from flooding disasters.

Sign up for flood warnings

If you live in an area that may be at risk from flooding, it can be beneficial to sign up to receive flood warnings from the government based on rainfall totals, river levels and sea conditions. These services alert you when a flood may be due in your area at any time of day by sending a call, text, or email straight to your device.

You can keep checking online for flood alerts and warnings in your area.

Raise household appliances off the floor If possible, it is recommended to move valuables or electronic items to a higher floor in the event of flooding.

This prevents anything important from getting wet, which could otherwise cause further hazards that might make it harder to clean up safely later. Free standing, units that are harder to movecan be placed on wooden panels or cinder blocks to raise them above low-level flooding.

Purchase non-return valves for drains and pipes

Another potential risk during flooding is the possibility of drains being overwhelmed by water and causing sewage to flow back through pipes from toilets and sinks.

Even if your home is protected, this can have the same effect as being flooded by bringing in water from the drains being filled outside.

Replace wooden floors and carpets

It can be a costly and timely process to invest in new flooring for your home, but this is highly advised in areas at high risk of flooding where your floors are susceptible to damage. Solid wood is a better material but can similarly take in water through the gaps between the panels.

Concrete or ceramic tiles are good choices for lowlevel flooring if installed with a damp-proof membrane underneath. Varnish or replace wooden skirting boards Another method of protection for your home against flooding is replacing any wooden skirting boards with water resistant materials. Whilst plastic skirting boards can look less appealing than wood, they do not absorb water as easily. A cheaper alternative is to varnish any wooden skirting boards, as this creates an added level of resistance against water. Invest in external protection If your home is regularly at risk from flooding, you may want to invest in some dedicated equipment to help keep water away from your property. Sandbags are the cheapest option that can absorb moisture and be placed to stop incoming water. They are good for weighing down furniture, blocking doorways, and redirecting currents. The Environmental Agency recommends at least 6 sandbags, each with approximately 15kg of sand, to keep out 20cm depth of water for a standard door opening. Flood bags are easier to move and store than sandbags, whilst being specifically designed for these situations. They use crystals instead of sand to absorb any water, inflate the bags, and store the water within them to create barriers. However, they are more costly to acquire than sandbags and can only be used once.

COlE bROTHERs plaNs

Plans to transform the former Cole Brothers building in Barker’s Pool are one step closer with Urban Splash signing a lease for the building with the Council.

The ambitious plans will see the space turn into a mixed-use entertainment, leisure and retail venue.

In the coming months, the award-winning regeneration company will begin consulting with the people of Sheffield on their plans for the building and gathering thoughts and ideas. The proposals would see the building become an exciting mixeduse scheme comprising flexible workspace and cafes/retail/leisure/cultural uses/event space which are all considered to be complementary uses to the rest of the Heart of the City project. Bringing this listed building back into active use will be hugely beneficial both for the wider city centre and the surrounding Heart of the City scheme.

Cllr Tom Hunt, Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee, said: “It is fantastic to

see another significant milestone achieved for this project. The former Cole Brothers building is an important and much loved part of Sheffield city centre and it will be great to breathe new life back into it. The work complements the schemes already being developed across the city including the Heart of the City, West Bar, and Fargate. We are creating a city centre that will be a destination for people to come and relax, shop, eat, work, and drink.” Nathan Cornish, Group Board Director at Urban Splash, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen by Sheffield City Council to regenerate this iconic building. Almost everyone I meet from Sheffield has a story to tell and we’re thrilled to be playing a part in its next chapter. We are still in the early stages and we are looking forward to consulting with the local community and stakeholders as we start to work up our plans.”

REsERvOIRs waRNING

Visitors to Yorkshire Water reservoirs are being urged to remain considerate of their behaviour in order to keep themselves and local wildlife safe ahead of the Easter weekendand the following May Bank Holidays. Yorkshire Water’s ranger teams will be out and about throughout the spring and summer engaging with visitors, providing information about the sites and encouraging people to follow the Countryside Code. Swimming in the reservoirs is not allowed, with visitors being encouraged to remain vigilant around the water. Reservoirs can pose a risk to life, through cold water shock, operational equipment under the water, hidden currents and other dangers. Refraining from using disposable barbecues, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads can all help to keep wildlife, the natural environment, and nearby farm animals safe. Disposable barbeques are not permitted on any of Yorkshire Water’s sites, and some of its sites are covered by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s), meaning people could face on the spot fines if they are found to be using one. David

Spencer, lead ranger at Yorkshire Water, said: “Easter weekend is upon us - hopefully alongside some warmer weatherand we want people across Yorkshire and beyond to enjoy coming out to our reservoirs. It’s important that those who do visit do not take risks that could impact the local natural environment and wildlife, or that puts them in harm’s way. Parents should stay alert to their children being tempted to enter the water.

Sadly, we’ve seen incidents in Yorkshire in recent years when people have lost their lives in reservoirs and other open water. It is important people don’t take the risk by entering the water. Following the Countryside Code and ensuring to take litter home, keep dogs on leads, park considerately, and be friendly to other visitors and our rangers will help to make trips to our reservoirs enjoyable for everyone now, and in the months to come.”

If visitors do see someone in the water who requires help or a fire, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately – crews are trained and equipped to deal with such incidents.

Colourful Parade and Celebration in rotherham town Centre

Rotherham is to welcome a puppet that’s taller than a double-decker Bus in a colourful parade and celebration in the Town Centre next weekend.

You can meet the amazing fivemeter mechanical puppet Farrah the Fox this Easter as she is welcomed by Reign of the waterways in a magical street carnival on Saturday 13th April, 2024.

‘Roots – Rotherham Street Carnival’ will run from 11am until 4pm and feature a day of live music and activities for all the family to enjoy. Festivities and performances start in All Saints Square at 11am with entertainment and bands to build the excitement for the puppets’ arrival.

Reign, the Spirit of the River Don, is an embodiment of Rotherham’s heritage and spirit. Farrah the Fox, taller than a double-decker bus, is a wise guardian of the woodlands. Together Farrah and Reign will travel from Rotherham Minster, setting off at 1pm towards High

Street, along Effingham Street, Frederick Street and finishing in All Saints Square in the heart of Rotherham town centre.

Along the route, the puppets will be accompanied by dancers, artists and “creatures of the river”, bringing people together in this colourful parade.

This will include walking performances and displays by Breakout Arts, Rotherham Dance Centre, Grimm & Co, Rotherham BMX, Clifton Partnership and a Samba Band, amongst others.

As the puppets weave through the streets they will be met by people and groups which make Rotherham great, bearing banners, flags, streamers, costumes and masks.

The event has been devised by Historic England and Emergency Exit Arts with artistic director, Manuela Benini, in partnership with Rotherham Council and various arts organisations.

Farrah the Fox is a nation-wide commissioned puppet with

Emergency Exit Arts and the culmination of Historic England’s major cultural programme across England’s high streets, supported using public funding by Arts Council England.

Rotherham Council’s Creative Programming and Events Manager Amy Lilley said: “This is sure to be a fantastic event for all the family and is part of our town centre programme of events which regularly take place on Saturdays throughout the year.

“The event also celebrates Rotherham’s rivers and canals which have a key part to play in Rotherham town centre, particularly with the opening of Forge Island this Summer. Together with a celebration of our high streets, this event will help to put a sense of pride back into Rotherham town centre.”

Roots – Street Carnival is brought to you by Rotherham Council and partners.

Simon and Garfunkel: Through the Years is the most authentic sounding concert to the unforgettable music of Simon and Garfunkel. Made up of Dan Haynes and; Pete Richards, Bookends have toured the globe extensively with their concerts being described as ‘simply breath-taking’. Performing the songs in a truly captivating way, against a backdrop of iconic imagery, their delicate recreation of the unmistakable sound of the American folk-rock duo is something of a masterpiece. Bookends have been performing their unique, world-class concert to audiences in some of the finest theatres and concert halls across the UK, Europe and the United States.Hear many of the hits such as The Sound of Silence, Mrs Robinson, The Boxer and Bookends’ own beautiful rendition of the unforgettable Bridge Over Troubled Water.

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parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to Licensing Section, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 25th April 2024

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details and to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing General Section. Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is a fine not exceeding £5,000.

The Licensing Act 2003 (Premises and Club Premises Certificates) Regulations 2005

Notice is hereby given that We: aChIllIes ltd

Have made an application under Section 17 Part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises known as fable, 959 eCClesall Road, SheffieLd S11 8TN

We intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities: Sale by retail of alcohol for consumption ON the premises:

Monday - Thursday 09:00 - 16:00

Friday - Saturday 09:00 - 17:00

Sunday 10:00 - 16:00

Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to The Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 23rd April 2024.

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details & to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service.

Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is a fine not exceeding £5,000.

The Licensing Act 2003

(Premises and Club Premises Certificates) Regulations 2005

Notice is hereby given that i: rAhiM uLLAh

Have made an application under Section 17

Part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a Premises Licence for the Premises known as abaseen dIneR ltd, 39-41 the wICkeR, SheffieLd S3 8hS

I intend to conduct on or from the premises the following licensable activities:

The provision of late night refreshment:

Monday - Sunday 23:00 - 04:00 the following day Interested parties or responsible authorities may make written representations to The Licensing Service, Sheffield City Council, Block C Staniforth Road Depot, Staniforth Road, Sheffield S9 3HD about this application by 26th April 2024.

For information on representations, please see www.sheffield.gov.uk/licensinginforesidents

For full details & to view a copy of the application please contact the Licensing Service.

Telephone: 0114 2734264 or by e-mail to licensingservice@sheffield.gov.uk

It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on conviction for this offence is a fine not exceeding £5,000.

The Jonathan Ross Show,

MONDAY

WEDNESDAYTHURSDAY

Coronation Street: Jenny admits to Carla that she stole Steven’s money. How will Carla react? Michael shows Dee-Dee a final demand which came through the post for Ed and Dee-Dee is shocked to realise how much Ed still owes. Ed returns from Birmingham and breaks the news to Michael that Aggie has given him his marching orders and won’t be returning home. Sean is delighted as Violet and Dylan call at No.11, but Violet makes it clear that it’s not a social visit. Maria bursts into tears and steals herself to tell Audrey about her anxieties.

Emmerdale;

As Charity urges Chas to go for it with Liam, the doc turns to his ex, Leyla, and has a cryptic chat about his feelings for Chas without naming names. But he’s going to regret not spelling things out to Leyla who, thinking she’s doing the right thing, encourages Ella, who’s been going on dates with Liam, to make things official! Paddy reaches out to Aaron about his BRCA2 test result and reminds him that he’ll always be there for him. As another row erupts between the on-off couple, Ruby absolutely loses it with Caleb. But as she’s tearing into her husband she ends up elbowing his sister Chas in the chest! Amy and Matty’s wedding plans have been dampened by Claudette who told the couple that they wouldn’t be able to use church property as Matty is trans. Amy celebrates her hen do. It’s meant to be Amy’s night but will her crazy mum Kerry take over the limelight? And will Amy find out her mother still hasn’t paid the bills for the big day?

Eastenders: Dean shocks Ian and Cindy when he asks them to buy him out of Beale’s Eels. The six women involved in helping cover up Keanu’s murder by burying him under the floor in the café are on pins as the drama continues. The body is a ticking time bomb that seems sure to land all the women in jail unless they can find a way to cover up their tracks. And Keanu is revealed as the body in the café! Sharon tries to hold her nerve as the police arrive at her house to question her about that fateful Christmas night. Meanwhile, Suki is determined not to get banged up for the murder and she finds Kathy, insisting there’s a way they can save themselves. But will it mean sacrificing someone? Yolande has made an enemy of Pastor Clayton, after calling him out for being inappropriate with her while they’ve been alone.

LATE HEARTBREAK FOR BATTLING BLADES

The Blades more than played their part in a second half thriller at Bramall Lane on Saturday afternoon, only to fall agonisingly short of securing a much-needed victory.

Ben Brereton Diaz opened the scoring from Oli McBurnie’s cross, before the duo combined for the latter to score after João Palhinha had restored parity. Brereton Diaz add a third from Hamer’s, only for VAR to rule out McBurnie’s second and United’s fourth which ultimately proved decisive in the final result. Substitute

Bobby De Cordova-Reid pulled one back, before Rodrigo Muniz netted what proved to be the equaliser in the third of 14 minutes added time.

United returned to Premier League action following a fortnight away, with Wilder making three changes.

Holgate replaced the injured Baldock, with Ahmedhodžić and Souza also recalled at the expense of Trusty and the absent Tom Davies.

Robinson wore the captain’s, with Slimane also included in the matchday squad for the first time since the end of January.

CLOSE SIGNS T wOyEAR

CONTRACT wITH ROVERS

Doncaster Rovers are delighted to confirm that Ben Close has signed a new two-year contract at Rovers.

The midfielder has committed his future to the club until the summer of 2026.

Prior to a season-ending injury suffered in January, the 27-year-old was in excellent form for Rovers with a string of accomplished performances.

“I’m really pleased to get this sorted,” Close said. “I really feel that the club is going in the right direction and I’m looking forward to being a part of it over the next two years.

“The way the second half of the season has panned out and if we can keep a lot of the group of players we’ve got now together, I think we’ll have a really good chance of achieving success next year and in the years to come as well.”

Manager Grant McCann said: “We’re very pleased to agree a new deal with Ben.

“Before he picked up the unfortunate injury at Bradford, he was in top form. His performances were of a very high standard and we turned down some bids for him in January.

“We are looking forward to getting Ben back fit because he’s integral for us and how we play.”

The first was a pretty quiet affair with little in the way of goalscoring opportunities, Grbić, who had earlier denied Robinson, was alert to the danger to get down quick and tip an prodded effort from Muniz on to the post before Holgate cleared to safety. United had a couple of chances of their own before the break, as Bogle fired into the side netting having got the better of the retreating Robinson, before Hamer curled an attempt wide in the second phase following a late corner. Muniz hit the post within two minutes

of the restart to set the tone for a chaotic second half. Arblaster produced two crucial blocks to deny Lukić and Iwobi, with the young midfielder needing treatment having clashed with Robinson in doing so. And as the hour mark approached, BRERTON DIAZ opened the scoring, adding the finishing touch to McBurnie’s cross after a slip by Tosin. Holgate was booked having halted the progress of Willian and moments later, JOAO PALHINHA headed home unmarked from the Brazilian’s corner.

IT’S NICE TO SEND FANS HOME wITH SMILES ON THEIR FACES

Rotherham United head coach Leam Richardson was delighted to have sent supporters home with smiles on their faces after their side’s 2-1 win over Millwall on Easter Monday.

First Millers goals for Seb Revan and Charlie Wyke either side of Ryan Longman’s equaliser meant that it was the Millers who went home happy and with three points in the meeting with the Lions.

A wholehearted display from the home side was duly rewarded with the club’s first triumph since Boxing Day under Richardson, who reserved special praise for the fans for their continued support after the game.

“They are very good at what they do and they

United regained the lead as MCBURNIE netted after Hamer’s quickly taken free kick had released Brereton Diaz, who claimed the assist. Two minutes later, BRERTON DIAZ added a third as he bundled home from Hamer’s inviting delivery, with the goal passing a lengthy VAR check.

On 82 minutes, MCBURNIE had seemingly netted his second and United’s fourth to make sure of the points, only for VAR to adjudged Souza was offside in the build up and Fulham almost immediately gave

themselves a lifeline as DE CORDOVA-REID reduced the arrears. 14 minutes of added time weren’t well received by the home faithful and in the end United were left hanging on. In just the third minute, Traoré fashioned space for a cross and MUNIZ produced an acrobatic volley into the bottom corner. A flurry of bookings, included for Hamer and Bassey followed, as the visitors chased what seemed an unlikely win and the last action saw Grbić perfectly positioned to deny Cairney from a well-worked set-piece.

are well-coached“The main thing is the result. I’m very pleased for the players but I’m very pleased that the fans can go home with a smile on their faces on Easter Monday.

“As a club we’re in a moment whereby we’re in transition and we need to be aware of that and make forward steps.

“I’ve spoken to the Chairman who is very buoyant and very positive about how we move forward.

“We want to be a better version of ourselves.

“I said on Friday that I felt for the fans over the season and then today it’s really pleasing that they’ve been able to go away with a smile on their faces that their team has won.

“Credit to certain players, who have kept putting themselves out there and kept making themselves available for what is ahead of us.

“It’s been a tough season for a lot of the fans and the players because they’ve been getting whacked around the head since the first game of the season. I’ve picked this club up at a certain point and not seen it at its best so far and I like a challenge. My job is to make sure that we come through this moment and make sure that we can represent the fans, the Chairman and ourselves in the best way we can. Today is a start for that.”

AFTERNOON TO FORGET FOR OwLS AT BORO

The Owls’ battle against the drop took a dent as Middlesbrough emerged 2-0 winners at the Riverside Stadium.

Michael Ihiekwe’s own goal separated the two at the break and Isaiah Jones doubled the lead in the second half.

In truth, it could have been worse as Boro created a raft of opportunities before Sam Greenwood missed a late penalty. But Wednesday came so close to a dream start when Marvin Johnson’s angled hit shaved the outside of the post after a fine Will Vaulks pass split the Boro backline.

The hosts, though, promptly took control.

Lewis O’Brien had a low shot deflected wide and the influential Greenwood saw his free-kick whistle just over the bar.

In a rare Owls foray upfield, Anthony Musaba was a whisker away from connecting to Bailey Cadamarteri’s cross but the Teessiders’ dominance soon resumed. They squandered a gilt-edged chance when Greenwood sent in a perfect delivery for Jones, who somehow blazed wide inside the six-yard box with the goal gaping.

But Boro did find a way through four minutes before the interval.

Greenwood’s corner caused problems and the ball ricocheted into the net off the unfortunate Ihiekwe.

Wednesday needed a boost for the second half but it was all Middlesbrough in the early throes.

Emmanuel Latte Lath forced a good save from James Beadle and Boro had two penalty claims waved away. Lath fired past the post after charging into the box on the angle and Beadle dived to parry a fierce Greenwood strike from danger.

A second goal was coming and duly arrived on 73 minutes. Jones advanced down the right of the area and unleased, and the ball deflected wickedly off Barry Bannan straight into the top corner.

Six minutes later it could and should have been 3-0 when Bannan handled a looping cross and the referee this time pointed to the spot.

Greenwood stepped up but his well-struck penalty came back into play off the upright.

That was a let-off for the Owls but the only thing that ran their way on an afternoon to forget.

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