Peter Whittingham scored a superb hat-trick as Cardiff beat Sheffield United 4-3 in a thrilling Championship clash at Bramall Lane.

Jay Bothroyd put Cardiff ahead on 41 minutes after Chris Morgan's clearance rebounded off James Harper but Darius Henderson equalised within two minutes.

Cardiff then went ahead again on 45, Whittingham drilling home a penalty after Henderson had hauled down Bothroyd in the box.

However the Blades drew level again in first-half stoppage time, Henderson heading home.

Cardiff were back in front on the hour as Adam Matthews' long throw was flicked into the path of Whittingham who thumped home from close range.

City added a fourth late on when Whittingham rounded off a slick passing move.

Harper stabbed home an injury-time consolation for United before Stephen Quinn's late strike was ruled out for offside.