'Never stopped': Phil Smith's player ratings as Sunderland draw with Coventry City in Championship opener
Sunderland were held to a 1-1 draw against Coventry at the Stadium of Light – but how did each player fare for the Black Cats?
Alex Neil’s side took the lead in the 12th minute when Lynden Gooch’s cross was headed home by Jack Clarke.
Coventry saw more of the ball and were able to draw level six minutes from time when striker Viktor Gyokeres fired the ball home from the edge of the box.
Sunderland will now prepare for next weekend’s trip to Bristol City.
Our chief SAFC writer Phil Smith has dished out:
Sunderland will now prepare for next weekend’s trip to Bristol City.
9. Alex Pritchard - 8
The huge ovation he received when taken off with ten minutes to play was testament to his work rate. Never stopped pressing and had some good moments on the ball, too. 8
Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jack Clarke - 7
Tired a touch late on but this was a terrific shift, constantly shuttling up and down his flank in a wing-back role. A deft early header lifted the roof of the Stadium of Light. A brilliant moment. 7
Photo: Frank Reid
11. Ross Stewart - 7
Led the line well and was very unlucky not to get a few more fouls from the referee. Drew one top save from Moore in the second half. Never rested and covered so much ground. 7
Photo: Frank Reid
12. Luke O’Nien - 5
Couldn’t nick the ball of Gyokeres for the equaliser but that goal was all about the striker’s brilliance. Got about the pitch well. 5
Photo: Frank Reid