James Trafford makes ‘mad’ Sunderland admission after denying Brian Brobbey during Leeds United draw
James Trafford reflected on the difficult conditions and his key saves after Leeds United held Sunderland to a goalless draw
James Trafford described the conditions at the Stadium of Light as “mad” after helping Leeds United secure a goalless draw against Sunderland.
The goalkeeper denied Brian Brobbey and Nilson Angulo as Sunderland ended their four-match Premier League losing run but were unable to find a breakthrough.
Strong winds complicated the afternoon for both sides, with Trafford explaining that even adjusting his kicking could not entirely account for the ball’s unpredictable movement.
Trafford explains battle with the wind
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Trafford said both teams had competed well in difficult circumstances, with Leeds threatening to claim victory late on. “The wind was obviously extremely windy; the conditions were a bit mad to be honest. It was one of those games where both teams were fighting, and we had some chances at the end.”
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Asked how he had adapted his distribution, Trafford explained that Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs faced the same challenge at the opposite end. “I just had to try and hit the ball a bit flatter, but the wind was all over the place; sometimes it went long, and it held up. It was mad, but it was the same for me and Roefs.”
Clean sheet rewards daily work
Trafford’s saves proved important in a closely contested game. Sunderland registered 15 shots to Leeds’ 11, with both teams recording four efforts on target. Brobbey threatened during the first half on his return to Sunderland’s starting line-up, while Angulo forced two good saves after the interval.
Trafford credited his approach to training and preparation when asked about keeping a clean sheet. “I am obviously pleased, and it is a product of trying to win every day. The more days you win, the better chance and position it puts you in to play well, so I just try and win the day.”
The goalkeeper also spoke positively about his experience at Leeds and the backing he had received from his teammates. “I have really enjoyed playing week in and week out, and it's amazing playing for Leeds and feeling the love from the lads. I am enjoying it and so is everyone else.”