Magpies frustrate Blades

Mike Edwards' first-half effort, his first goal in over two and a half years, looked likely to give the Magpies the points before Murphy headed home late on.

The Blades were booed off at half time after a 45 minutes in which they created very little. Michael Higdon headed over and Jose Baxter had an effort claimed by Roy Carroll, but United rarely troubled County.

Gary Jones brought a save out of Mark Howard and it was from the veteran's corner that County took the lead, when Howard flapped at his delivery and there was Edwards to prod in at the back post after half an hour.

United's long search for a new striker finally bore fruit this week when Chris O'Grady joined the club, but injury robbed him of a debut and they again looked toothless up front.

Defender Chris Basham had a great chance to level when he met Campell-Ryce's cross from six yards, but Carroll saved with his legs.

McEveley brilliantly blocked Stephen McLaughlin's shot as County broke quickly and two minutes later, the Blades equalised when Murphy's header looped over Carroll into the roof of the net.

Carroll's foot then denied Baxter as Nigel Clough's side sought a winner, before County put up the shutters.