Sunderland were held to a draw once again as the game at the Stadium of Light against Blackpool ended with a 1-1 scoreline. The contest was evenly matched with both teams having some decent opportunities to score. Blackpool opened the scoring from a long-range effort from Armand Gnanduillet and the home team went in 1-0 down at half time. Blackpool definitely deserved their lead and could have doubled it as well.
As expected, Sunderland tried to press the issue in the second half. Will Grigg missed a glorious opportunity, but Jack Baldwin scored through a corner to earn his team a well-deserved point. However, a draw was not enough as the home team now sit 3 points off the automatic promotion spot.
Here is how the Black Cats fared.
Jon McLaughlin 6
Couldn’t have done much to prevent the goal. Made a couple of simple saves and ensured that his team were in the game.
Jack Baldwin 7
Made some crucial clearances and interceptions. His most important contribution came in the second half when he scored the equaliser.
Jimmy Dunne 7
Came close to scoring in the first half. Did a decent job overall at the back.
Luke O’Nien 5.5
Returned to playing as a right-back and put in a good shift. However, Ross would want to see him contribute more in the opposition half.
Reece James 5
Nothing too flashy, nothing too bad from the left back. Worked hard.
Grant Leadbitter 6
Was tenacious in midfield. Started off slow but improved as the game went on. Delivered few dangerous set pieces which looked like the biggest threat to Blackpool’s defence.
George Honeyman 7
Looked the most threatening player in terms of creating opportunities. Always looked to drive the ball forward and worked tirelessly throughout the game.
Lynden Gooch 5
The central role didn’t probably suit him, and Ross would be better of using him from the wide areas. Tried hard but with little results to show for his effort as he lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Duncan Watmore 7
Looked sharp and energetic in possession. Definitely, one of the brightest players on the pitch as he tried to make things happen every time he had the ball.
Aiden McGeady 4.5
Poor game from a generally reliable player. His touch seemed to be off and gave the possession cheaply on quite a few occasions.
Will Grigg 5
Had to feed off scraps for the most part and couldn’t contribute much in the build-up. Got one clear cut opportunity which he squandered as he missed an open goal after rounding off the keeper.
Substitutes
Charlie Wyke 5
Provided fresh legs on the pitch.
Tom Flanagan N/A
Lewis Morgan 6
Looked sharp after coming on.
