Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings: Jon McLaughlin 'exceptional' but how did Will Grigg perform?
By Richard Mennear
Published 28th Feb 2019, 14:03 GMT
Will Grigg made his Sunderland debut but he couldn't inspire a win at Oxford United, the Black Cats having to settle for a point.
Jimmy Dunne headed Sunderland in front in the 34th minute from a Grant Leadbitter corner but they couldn't hold on, Marcus Browne scoring the equaliser in the 87th minute following an assist by ex-Sunderland forward Jerome Sinclair. Phil Smith's player ratings below:
Jimmy Dunne celebrates his goal. Getty Images.
Another exceptional display of goalkeeping. A string of excellent saves looked like it might prove to be the difference for Sunderland. Result would have been worse without him. 9
Struggled against Jordan Graham in the early stages but the Wolves loanee faded in the second half as the Welshman came through a tough challenge. 6
Distribution was very poor on his return to the side but fought well on a difficult afternoon. 6
His first Sunderland goal was just one part of a superb showing. Battled brilliantly in the air and made some vital covering challenges. Possible fouled in build up to equalising goal. 7
Quality in the final third was not quite as good as usual and he was beaten occasionally by Gavin Whyte, whose end product was very poor. 6
Showed real experience and maturity at the base of midfield. Set piece delivery was a major upgrade and forced the opening goal. 6
