'Excellent': Phil Smith's Sunderland player rating photos after Leeds United draw - including one 8/10
By Phil Smith
Published 9th Apr 2024, 22:07 BST
Phil Smith’s Sunderland player ratings after the Black Cats’ goalless draw against Leeds United at Elland Road.
Sunderland held automatic promotion chasers Leeds to a goalless draw at Elland Road – but who stood out for the Black Cats?
The hosts dominated possession but couldn’t find a breakthrough despite piling on the pressure in the second half. Sunderland were fortunate not to concede a penalty when the ball hit Luke O’Nien on the arm inside the Black Cats’ box, yet the referee waved play on.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at Elland Road:
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players at Elland Road:
5. Luke O’Nien - 6
Had a good game on the whole and defended well, though was undeniably fortunate to get away with a handball claim as he clawed a corner clear of Rodon’s head. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
Looks far more comfortable as a wing back and did pretty well throughout here. Defensively sound enough and showed some nice touches on the ball. 7 Photo: Frank Reid
Best player on the park in the first half, showing composure on the ball and shutting down a number of dangerous attacks with some excellent challenges. Slightly less effective in the second half but overall very good and a mark of his development as an all-round midfielder. 8 Photo: Frank Reid
One or two lapses in the first half that could have been costly but competed very well in the second half and helped his side earn a valuable point. 6 Photo: Frank Reid