Sunderland produced an encouraging performance from Friday night as they drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest at the Pinatar Arena.
Jack Clarke’s penalty put Sunderland ahead in the first half, with Omar Richards levelling the scores just after the interval. Forest dominated thereafter but Sunderland came back strongly, their substitutes impacting the game well and almost nicking a winner through Nazariy Rusyn.
Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players. His full match analysis is available here
5. Dennis Cirkin
Tried a little in the second half but stuck at it and was a real threat throughout the first half. Made some dangerous driving runs - makes a huge difference to the balance to the side when he’s able to play. Very encouraging even if there’s clearly lots more to come. 7 | Ian Horrocks Photo: Frank Reid
6. Chris Rigg
Completed an hour in his preferred central midfield position and didn’t look out of place for a second. Only the odd misplaced pass and was at the heart of all his side’s best play. Hugely impressive, drawing the foul from which Clarke scored the opener. 8 | Ian Horrocks Photo: Ian Horrocks
7. Dan Neil
Solid and disciplined display at the base of midfield. His efforts and tidy use of the ball created the platform for Rigg to burst forward in the first hour to really dangerous effect. 7 | Chris Fryatt Photo: Chris Fryatt
8. Patrick Roberts
Didn’t really get into the game, understandable as Forest dominated the ball for the most part. Diligent in his defensive work and one delightful switch in the second half almost put Clarke in. 6 | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid