Championship Top Five, Round 23: Bannan masterminds Sheff Wed win
Sheffield Wednesday most definitely have upward momentum at the moment and Barry Bannan's displays in midfield have been a highlight. In the win over Bristol City, he rolled home a late penalty to win it, as well as creating two clear chances for team-mates that weren't converted. His 13 recoveries were also the highest of the round in the Championship and Bannan's complete performance gives Wednesday a real look of a play-off contender.
Walton was superb in Blackburn's 0-0 draw with Wigan that had multiple chances at both ends of the pitch. The Rovers stopper maintained his clean sheet with four superb saves on the way to his clean sheet and his overall command of the area ensured that a solid Wigan display wasn't rewarded with victory.
Reading's 3-0 win over Derby somewhat flattered them considering the visitors were down to 10 men early, but Yakou Meite produced the kind of dynamic display that was a delight to watch. His late penalty merely added gloss to a performance where he completed six dribbles and managed eight touches in the opposition penalty area. His creativity and style on the ball were just too much for Derby on the day.
Preston have conceded a lot of goals this season but there were on the front foot for most of the match against Cardiff and were unlucky to only draw the match. But any time Cardiff attacked the goal, Pearson kept them at bay. He won all five of his duels, 2/2 of his tackles, 10 recoveries and five interceptions. It was a super all-round defensive display.
Eaves has been much-maligned during his spell at Hull but he proved his worth in the 3-0 win over Birmingham City. He not only scored with his only shot on target but won an impressive 13 of his 17 duels and seven of his nine aerial battles. He proved to be a constant menace, bringing other players into the game and for that Hull deserved their win.