Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings: 'Outstanding' star hailed but mixed marks after thrilling Burton draw
Sunderland AFC moved into the top two of League One after a 1-1 draw with Burton Albion - but how did their players perform?
By Mark Donnelly
Published 9th Apr 2019, 22:03 BST- 1 min read
Updated 9th Apr 2019, 22:04 BST
Sunderland AFC player ratings against Burton Albion
A header first-half header from Jack Baldwin secured a point for the Black Cats, who perhaps could have taken all three points after peppering the Burton goal in the dying stages. But how did their players perform in the clash? Our Sunderland AFC writer, Phil Smith, has dished out his player ratings following the clash. Scroll down and click through the pages to see who shone - and struggled - for Sunderland against the Brewers:
Sunderland take huge risks in possession and McLaughlin was there to save them in dangerous moments with a couple of outstanding blocks. Underlined his prowess in 1v1 situations. 8
Had a tough game as Marcus Harness exploited the space behind the defence well. Did his best to get forward in what was a very open game. 6
Wobbled a touch towards the end but generally did very well in defence. His goal was an excellent one, beating his marker and placing a fine effort into the far corner. 7
Very poor in possession and fortunate that it did cost his side a goal, particularly in the second half. 5
A very impressive return to the starting XI. Never erred in defence and drove his side forward from the left, particularly in the second half. Unlucky that his team-mates couldnt find him in a couple of promising positions. 7
Did well on his return to the starting XI, covering an awful lot of ground and showing some good composure in the closing stages of the game. 6
Desperately unlucky that a brilliant effort in the second half hit the post. A great corner for Baldwins goal and one of Sunderlands better performers on the night. 7
An awful night for the midfielder after what had been such a positive week. His error was crucial for Burtons opener and then he went off shortly after with an injury. 5
Another frustrating game for the Celtic loanee. Never got into the first half, carried the ball better in the second but with little end product. 5
Another performance that underlined the significant improvement in his general game. Caused plenty of problems but will be bitterly disappointed to miss a golden first half chance with the scores at 1-1. 6
Fashioned a great chance for himself early on when he coasted away from a defender at a throw in, forcing a decent stop from the edge of the area. Struggled to impact the game thereafter. 5
Brought an immediate drive to Sunderlands midfield and competed well. 6
An encouraging cameo in which he showed really good movement and caused a lot of problems for the tiring Burton defence. A real shame he missed his big chance after a great run into the box. 6
Thrown on as a wildcard option in the last ten and showed his talent but also his naivety at times. 6
