Sunderland were knocked out of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night after falling to a 2-0 defeat at Deepdale.
Regis Le Bris changed all eleven players for the game and though they started well, a far more experienced Preston North End side ultimately ran out comfortable winners. They changed just three players from opening day and a deflected goal from Ryan Ledson gave them a first-half lead. Mads Frokjaer then made the points safe in what was a much more dominant second-half showing from the hosts. Here’s how Phil Smith rated the Sunderland players...
5. Joe Anderson
Started well and looked to be positive in possession, but struggled defensively as Potts surged forward from wing back. Tough ask to step up a level and play out of position. One of a few caught out for the first goal. 4 | Ian Horrocks
6. Pierre Ekwah
Given how little football he has had, did really well at the base of midfield. Competed well and passed forward well - particularly in the first half. 7 | Frank Reid
7. Chris Rigg
Probably the pick of the bunch. Continues to perform with a maturity that belies his age and his fearlessness in possession was at the heart of Sunderland’s best play. So direct and positive in all his work. 7 | Photo: Ian Horrocks
8. Abdoullah Ba
Some nice moments but the end product was frustrating and lost the ball too often. Missed a free header early on from seven or eight yards out - one he had to score. 5 | Ian Horrocks