'Big difference': Phil Smith's Sunderland player rating photos after Crewe defeat on penalties in Carabao Cup

Phil Smith’s Sunderland player ratings after the Black Cats’ were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on penalties by Crewe.

Sunderland were knocked out of the Carabao Cup after they were beaten on penalties by League Two side Crewe.

The match finished 1-1 in normal time before the visitors won 5-3 on penalties, with Pierre Ekwah missing the only spot kick.

Crewe took the lead when centre-back Luke Offord headed the ball home from an in-swining corner on the stroke of half-time.

Sunderland responded by bringing on debutant Bradley Dack, Pierre Ekwah and Jack Clarke in the second half, with Chris Rigg scoring an equaliser in the 64th minute.

The Black Cats couldn’t force a winner, though, before they were beaten on spot kicks.

Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at the Stadium of Light:

13. Pierre Ekwah (sub) - 6

Protected the defence well and moved the ball quickly, which is what his side needed. Unlucky to see a good effort from range hit the post, but his penalty shootout miss proved costly in the end. 6 Photo: Frank Reid

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14. Bradley Dack (sub) - 6

Made a big difference after his introduction at the break, lifting the tempo of the side and combining well. A bit quieter as the half went on but a solid start and nearly nicked a winner in stoppage time. Took his penalty well in the shootout. 6 Photo: Frank Reid