After a 2-1 loss to Manchester City on the opening day which produced plenty of positives, a sense of optimism was growing surrounding David Moyes’ first home game in charge of the Black Cats. It was the occasion of the Tees-Wear Derby after a long time and Premier League new boys Middlesbrough came out victorious.
Two Christian Stuani goals in the first half gave Boro a commendable lead. Sunderland were the second best side for most spells of the game. A late goal from Sunderland’s bombarding full-back Patrick van Aanholt made the fans optimistic about a comeback but it wasn’t meant to be. Two games, two losses means that Moyes has plenty to think about when he heads back to the training ground while Aitor Karanka’s side have already shown that Boro are here to stay.
Here are player ratings for Sunderland from the game.
Vito Mannone: 6/10
The Italian could do very little about the two goals he conceded. Made a few routine saves.
Donald Love: 5.5/10
Not the best debut from the youngster. Was troubled by physical Negredo time and time again. Did not have much joy going forward.
John O’Shea: 5.5/10
Was withdrawn in the first half with an injury giving serious concerns to the boss.
Papy Djilobodji: 6/10
Started really well making his presence felt winning a number of aerial duels. Faded as the game went on. Needs to improve on his passing.
Patrick van Aanholt: 5/10
Was at fault for both goals Sunderland shipped. Made up for his mistakes with a late goal. Needs to improve his defensive duty.
Paddy McNair: 5/10
An own goal on his debut costing his side all three points last week was followed up by another poor display. Was guilty of losing possession time and again. Covered plenty of ground for the team but no end product as his passing was horrendous.
Jack Rodwell: 6/10
A good display from the former Manchester City midfielder especially when pushed back into defence after the injury to O’Shea.
Duncan Watmore: 6.5/10
A lively game from the youngster but needs to improve on his final ball. Can be a world beater someday if he can work on his vision.
Adnan Januzaj: 6.5/10
A solid home debut for the Manchester United loaned. Tested Friend throughout the game and got the better of the Boro left-back. However, he needs to work on his final delivery.
Lynden Gooch: 6.5/10
Unlike Watmore and Januzaj, Gooch had a slow start to the game but slowly started to impress. Had a good second half and played a key part in Sunderland’s goal.
Jermain Defoe: 6/10
Was craving for service in the first half. Missed an easy chance to make in 1-1.
Substitutes
Steven Pienaar: 6.5/10
Did well in an unfamiliar central midfield role after replacing O’Shea.
Jeremain Lens: 6.5/10
A decent display from the Dutch international when called upon from the bench.
Joel Asoro: NA
