Sunderland’s under-21s were back in Premier League 2 action at Eppleton CW as they faced Stoke City, looking to build on a recent draw and climb away from the lower reaches of the table.
The young Black Cats began the game sitting 23rd in the standings, having collected four points from their opening five matches, with one win, one draw and three defeats. Graeme Murty’s side had shown encouraging signs in recent performances but were still seeking greater consistency at both ends of the pitch.
Coming into the fixture, Sunderland had scored 13 goals – more than several teams above them – yet defensive lapses had proven costly. Stoke, meanwhile, arrived in 10th spot, having made a solid start to the campaign and looking to continue their push towards the top half. The contest provided another valuable test for Sunderland’s developing group as they aimed to translate promising build-up play into results.
Here, James Copley rates every Sunderland player after the game against Stoke City at Eppleton in the Premier League 2:
1. Isaac Allen
Isaac Allen started in goal and nearly cost his team after just four minutes after needlessly rushing out of his box before giving away a yellow card foul. Improved a great deal after the opening 10 minutes and looked very good with his feet, but was then sent off for a second yellow in the second half. Unfortunate decision-making from the young stopper. 3 | Getty Images
2. Jenson Jones
Jenson Jones started at right-back and impressed with his range of passing. Always looks assured on the ball and intelligent in his defensive actions. 7 | Jenson Jones. Photo by Ian Horrocks courtesy of Sunderland AFC.
3. Archie Lightfoot
Archie Lightfoot started at left-back and did a good job supporting Timur Tutierov. Looked assured on the ball. 7 | Sunderland AFC
4. Joe Neild
Joe Neild started at centre-back and was impressive throughout the game as Stoke City looked to go long. Ended up in goal in the second half after being Sunderland's best defender. 8 | Sunderland AFC.