Clough proud of Sheffield United effort

It could have been even better for the Blades after they lead through Chris Porter's early strike, but after skipper Michael Doyle was dismissed for an act of petulance, Hugo Rodallega drew the Premier League side level.

And Clough claims some contestable calls by referee Andre Marriner served to fire up the underdogs.

"I'm immensely pleased and proud of them, the work rate was the standout," he told Press Association Sport.

"It was a great effort with 10 men for that amount of time. It was remarkable to not just contain Fulham in the second half but to be a threat as well, which was great to see.

"The crowd responded because there was a sense of injustice - from us as well - to some of the decisions. There was definite contact on Ryan Flynn in the area and at 2-0, even with 10 men you'd hope to see it through.

"But you can use that to your advantage if everyone digs in and works hard for each other."