We are hurtling towards the halfway point of a Championship season that is delivering once again – and there was no escaping that this could be a night which has huge significance for so many different reasons.

For Sheffield United and Sunderland, this was an acid test of their promotion credentials like few they have faced before this season. A winner-takes-all night under the lights, with top spot in the Championship at stake – even if for potentially only 24 hours – and a clear message sent in terms of showing they are capable of lasting the distance in a season that is fast becoming compelling at every turn.