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
9. Jobe Bellingham
Massive shift, getting forward to support Mayenda in the press. Didn’t get much sight of goal but competed well. 6 | Frank Reid Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jack Clarke
Didn’t see him at full flow for the most part but took his penalty clinically. Worked hard and should get more chances to show his best when Sunderland had more of the ball in the upcoming games. 6 | Ian Horrocks Photo: Ian Horrocks
11. Eliezer Mayenda
Didn’t threaten the goal and still looks raw at times but a genuinely big positive again here. Ran the channels and made the ball stick, earning the trust of his team-mates in the process. His pressing won the ball back for the penalty - making a bit of a mark in pre-season. 8 | Ian Horrocks Photo: Ian Horrocks
12. Pierre Ekwah
Injury almost forced him off minutes after his introduction but thankfully came through. Moved it nicely, a good performance. 6 | Ian Horrocks Photo: Ian Horrocks