Sunderland came from behind to secure only their second point of the season against Tony Pulis’ West Brom at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. David Moyes was under immense pressure before the game and it became challenging for the manager even before the game started when he had to make 3 changes in his starting line-up due to injury, five in total.
With the team in desperate need for a win, it looked to be hard even though the Black Cats were at home. Tensions were high when Nacer Chadli gave the visitors the lead in the first half but the hosts fought till the end and got their reward 7 minutes from time when substitute Van Aanholt scored the equaliser. Let’s now take a look at how the players fared in the game out of a total of 10.
Jordan Pickford (7.5/10)
Was one of the best players on the pitch for the hosts. Produced multiple good saves to keep his team in the game and was very impressive with his distribution as well.
Jason Denayer (5.5/10)
Was not able to play to his abilities after being told to play on the other side of the defence, wasn’t decisive enough and couldn’t contribute much for the team going forward.
Lamine Kone (7/10)
Another good performance at the back, individually was very solid and his no-nonsense approach served his team well in keeping things tight under pressure
John O’Shea (6.5/10)
Partnered Kone well at CB. Was important in keeping things together with his experience in the second half. Encouraging performance.
Javier Manquillo (5.5/10)
Tried to assist the team in the forward areas but was found out defensively and was out of position when Chadli scored down his flank
Didier N’dong (6.5/10)
Was busy in the middle with his passes and covered his defenders well also. Steady performance from the record signing
Jan Kirchhoff (6/10)
Didn’t have the best of days considering it was his birthday. Played decently in the first half but was forced to leave the field on a stretcher early in the second half.
Paddy McNair (5.5/10)
Looked promising in the early parts but faded away as time progressed. Team needed a lot more from him which he couldn’t provide and was subbed in the 72nd minute.
Wahbi Khazri (6/10)
Came on as a replacement for Januzaj who was injured but wasn’t able to provide the creativity or edge in the attacking areas. Worked hard but was disappointing with his end product.
Duncan Watmore (7.5/10)
Excellent performance from the midfielder who looked purposeful in his actions throughout the game. Provided loads of energy and great forward passing as well. Created a wonderful chance for Defoe and was involved in the equaliser as well.
Jermaine Defoe (6/10)
Was surprisingly a bit wasteful in front of goal today. Had a great chance to score in the first half but couldn’t. Tried hard and almost won the game in stoppage time.
Subs
Van Aanholt (7.5/10)
Replaced Kirchhoff in the 57th minute and left his mark on the game with his forward runs and passes. His greatest contribution is the goal which saved the hosts from yet another defeat.
Jack Rodwell (6.5/10)
On in the 72nd minute played well in his position and improved his team with McNair off the field.
Lynden Gooch (N/A)
