Goals from Cameron Jessup and Ethan Kachosa were enough to hand Sunderland their first points in Group E of the Premier League Cup against a Leeds U23 team playing a division above the Wearsiders in the Premier League 2.
Elliott Dickman’s men were looking to bounce back in Group E after a disappointing 3-0 loss to Mansfield Town U23 in their opening game of the competition early last month.
Since that defeat, Sunderland had only won once, against West Brom last weekend, in their following four Premier League 2 fixtures.
Dickman’s starting XI was notable for the inclusion of 23-year-old first-team defender Arbenit Xhemajli following his return from a lengthy knee injury.
Sunderland writer James Copley has delivered his verdict on how each player fared at the Stadium of Light:
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5. Cameron Jessup
The right-sided centre-back made a few superb tackles in the first half and looked like a very mobile and athletic defender with intelligence and pace to burn. Covered for his full-back a few times. Superb header for Sunderland’s opener. Impressive outing. 8. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
6. Stephen Wearne
Had a tame effort on goal in the first half that he probably could have done better with. Captained the side well and led by example in terms of effort. Won the ball back well at times in the middle before being withdrawn at the interval. 6. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
7. Ethan Kochosa
The right winger looks a real tricky player to play against and caused Leeds some problems. Set up a good chance for Wearne in the first half and took his goal extremely well. 8. Photo: FRANK REID 2021
8. Harry Gardiner
The lone striker certainly put in a good shift whilst he was on the field but was up against it with Leeds’ two centre-backs both physically imposing. Came off midway through the first half with an injury. 6 Photo: FRANK REID 2021