Michael Higdon's goal early in the first half helped Sheffield United beat Leyton Orient 1-0 in the Capital One Cup third round.
The Blades came fast out of the blocks and, having won a first minute corner, went ahead soon after.
Jamie Murphy broke down the left and picked out Higdon who rose highest in the area and sent a powerful header from close range into the roof of the net.
Murphy pushed for a second and unleashed a fierce shot from 25 yards but it lacked direction.
Orient responded positively with Jobi McAnuff testing visiting keeper Mark Howard with a well-directed 20-yard drive and then Jay Simpson got round the back of the opposition defence before sending a pass across the face of goal but none of his colleagues were on hand to apply a finishing touch.
Despite enjoying the greater possession for much of the game, Orient found it increasingly difficult to break down a well-drilled Blades defence although left-back Elliot Omozusi did have a rasping 25-yard drive tipped onto a post by Howard.