Phil Smith's Sunderland player ratings: Who starred and struggled as SAFC lose at Bradford City?
Alex Neil made 11 changes to his side following Sunderland’s 2-0 win over Dundee United, with the head coach looking to give every member of his senior squad sufficient game time ahead of the new Championship campaign.
After a goalless first half, Emmanuel Osadebe put the hosts ahead after the interval.
The hosts then doubled their lead when Lynden Gooch brought down Jamie Walker and the attacking midfielder converted from the penalty spot.
Here’s how our chief Sunderland writer rated each player at Valley Parade:
The hosts then doubled their lead when Lynden Gooch brought down Jamie Walker and the attacking midfielder converted from the penalty spot.
9. Luke O’Nien - 5
Got about the pitch well but never really able to impose himself on the contest. A quiet showing. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
10. Jack Clarke - 5
Laboured when playing through the middle for the most hour, but was most definitely his team’s best threat when he moved back out wide and drove infield as he does best later in the game. 5 Photo: National World
11. Jack Diamond - 4
Never really got into the contest, though Crichlow made one excellent challenge to prevent him from shooting just before half time. You feel for him as he is clearly not a striker and so it isn’t easy to make a proper impact in that role at the moment. 4 Photo: Frank Reid
12. Harrison Sonha (sub) - 5
Pressed well and had some good moments on the ball. Came closer than anyone to scoring from range, though he maybe should have played a pass. 5 Photo: FRANK REID PHOTOGRAPHER 2022