Sunderland produced a strong display but fell to a narrow defeat against Arsenal on Saturday

Régis Le Bris said he was ‘proud but disappointed’ after Sunderland fell to a 2-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.

The Black Cats conceded a stunning goal from substitute Bruno Guimaraes just two minutes after David Raya had turned an Enzo Le Fée penalty onto the foot of the post. Sunderland created some significant chances thereafter as the game broke open, but Bukayo Saka scored a stoppage-time penalty after being brought down by Reinildo who was then shown a second yellow card.

The Sunderland coach rued the fine margins that cost his side a famous result, but insisted the performance showed where they are growing as a team. Le Bris also defended Le Fée after his penalty miss, and said he thought primarily it was excellent goalkeeping from the impressive Raya.

“I'm proud and disappointed, these are the two words that are in my mind at the minute,” he said.

“I'm proud because I think we showed that we are really close to achieve something big against one of the best teams in Europe right now. After the first half we were a bit reserved with the ball I think, but our second half was excellent.

“We got the momentum, created chances, a big save from Raya from the penalty. The league is relentless and this level is relentless just after we conceded this goal. But we stayed in the game and created other chances, but didn't score and this is the difference today.

“I think it was [very good goalkeeping rather than a poor penalty], Raya was absolutely impressive today.”

The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.

Sunderland were given a big ovation from their supporters after Saka’s penalty, which the head coach believes was a reflection of the performance his team had put in.

“We had intensity, togetherness, we were brave as well at times with the ball,” Le Bris said.

“We were flexible tactically because this team creates chances. Against Napoli for example, they created over 4 XG. Today we found a solution to stop them and we created chances as well so it shows that we are getting better. It's not enough yet but it's a process and we need to take the most of it.”

Your next Sunderland read: Phil Smith's Sunderland AFC player ratings v Arsenal with two 8s and four 5s in narrow loss