'A tough night': Phil Smith's Sunderland player ratings after Middlesbrough defeat and Ross Stewart injury
Sunderland were beaten 1-0 at Middlesbrough in the Championship – but how did each player fare for Tony Mowbray’s side?
Boro’s Riley McGree scored the only goal of the game in the 25th minute when he converted Ryan Giles’ low cross.
Sunderland suffered a big injury blow before the match as top scorer Ross Stewart was forced to withdraw from the starting XI due to an injury.
The Black Cats will now prepare for Saturday’s home game against Millwall.
Our chief Sunderland writer Phil Smith has dished out his player ratings from the Riverside Stadium:
The Black Cats will now prepare for Saturday’s home game against Millwall.
5. Dennis Cirkin - 5
Defended tenaciously with Jones proving to be a real threat down the right flank. Didn’t get much of a chance to break forward and limped off before the end, which is another major injury worry for Sunderland. 5
Photo: Frank Reid
6. Jack Clarke - 4
Just one of those nights for the winger, who got into good positions on a number of occasions but just couldn’t find the quality to capitalise. A tough night after what has been a superb start to the season. 4
Photo: Martin Swinney
7. Corry Evans - 5
Tried to keep his side in the game when they were badly struggling through the first half. 5
Photo: Frank Reid
8. Dan Neil - 5
Struggled to get into the game in the first half and though they improved in the second he wasn’t able to find the killer pass. 5
Photo: Martin Swinney