Sunderland faced one of their biggest tests of the season as they took on Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with the Tyne-Wear derby once again delivering a high-intensity contest.
With both sides separated by only a handful of points in the Premier League table, there was plenty riding on the result, while the occasion itself brought the usual edge, noise and pressure that defines this fixture.
Régis Le Bris’ side were looking to impose themselves in a hostile environment against a Newcastle team desperate to respond following a difficult week, and the game unfolded with all the drama expected of a derby.
Here’s how the Sunderland players rated at St James’s Park:
1. Melker Ellborg
Melker Ellborg looked a bit shaky early on in goal and took too long on a goal kick, which Anthony Gordon chased down. Struggled with his distribution in the first-half and was put under pressure by the home side. Improved after the break. 6 | Getty Images
2. Trai Hume
Trai Hume played out of position at left-back but managed to hook the ball back in for Sunderland's equalising goal in the second half. Dropped into midfield at times. Showed great composure on the ball. Very steady performance. 7 | Getty Images
3. Lutsharel Geertruida
Lutsharel Geertruida started at right-back and was poor in the first-half as Sunderland struggled to find a clear rhythm in the game. Improved after the break and looked like a threat going forward. 7 | Getty Images
4. Omar Alderete
Omar Alderete defended well in the first-half and there was nothing he could do about Newcastle United's opener. Superb with the ball at his feet, broke the lines several times with passes into the middle. Looked assured in his defensive work. Sunderland's best player on the day. 9 | Chris Fryatt