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:
5. Finlay Holcroft
Finlay Holcroft played well at centre-back. Dealt well with Stoke's physical and tricky attacking line. Did well after Sunderland went down to 10-men. 8 Photo: Ben Cuthbertson
6. Ben Middlemas
Rhys Walsh started on the right-hand side of Sunderland's attack and looked very bright during the opening stages. Created a couple of chances in the first half and was full of running. 7 | Rhys Walsh
7. Jaydon Jones
Jaydon Jones started in Sunderland's midfield. Lost the ball once or twice in the first half as he looked to get his team on the front foot. Decent showing. 7 | Sunderland's Jaydon Jones - Photo by Ben Cuthbertson
8. Timur Tutierov
Timur Tutierov should have scored early in the first half, but made up for it by assisting Jack Whittaker's opener. Squandered a hatful of chances to score himself during the opening 45 and should have put Sunderland ahead in the second. The winger was probably the best player on the pitch during the game, but was frustrating with his finishing. 7 | Stu Forster/Getty Images