Sunderland made it back-to-back victories with a plucky win over Leeds United this evening.
Mike Dodds took charge for the second game in a row following an impressive 2-1 victory over West Brom at the weekend, though the Black Cats were handed a much bigger challenge on home soil tonight.
The interim manager was criticised for his team selection, after bringing Jenson Seelt into a five-man defence, dropping Patrick Roberts and pushing Alex Pritchard forward. However, it worked perfectly and Sunderland managed to claim a surprising three points against the promotion candidates.
Despite a dominating second half performance from Leeds United, some brilliant football resulted in Jobe Bellingham heading home to retain Sunderland’s spot in the Championship’s top six.
It could well be Sunderland’s final match without a permanent head coach, and a number of players have certainly done plenty to prove their worth ahead of a new chapter.
Here are our player ratings following the 1-0 win on Wearside…
Anthony Patterson – 6
Despite Leeds dominating possession, Anthony Patterson had a fairly quiet night at the Stadium of Light.
The goalkeeper made an important save in the first half, but was rarely challenged as he picked up his sixth clean sheet of the campaign.
Trai Hume – 7
Trai Hume enjoyed a very solid performance against Leeds’ huge talent, keeping quiet the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter.
The full-back made three clearances, two blocks, four interceptions and five tackles in a brilliant defensive display on home soil.
Jenson Seelt – 8
Jenson Seelt was a questionable addition to Sunderland’s starting line-up but he definitely proved himself this evening.
The Dutchman looked confident and composed at the back and also had a few brilliant chances in front of goal, as well as setting up Abdoullah Ba very well in the second half.
Seelt was unfortunate to be replaced (presumably injured), but he certainly raised a question over whether he should be considered for more starts over Christmas.
Luke O’Nien – 7
Like the rest of the defence, Luke O’Nien looked extremely comfortable in front of one of the best attacks in the Championship.
The 29-year-old won two tackles and three clearances, as well as completing 53 accurate passes.
Dan Ballard – 7
An excellent display from the ever-reliable Dan Ballard, who portrayed a brick wall yet again after a quality first half of the campaign.
Niall Huggins – 7
Defended very well either side of the pitch and also looked very good going forward too, almost gifting Sunderland the lead in the first half.
Dan Neil – 7
A fairly comfortable evening running the middle of the park for Dan Neil. He was particularly impressive for his role in Jobe’s goal.
Jobe Bellingham – 7
Jobe did very well slightly further back than usual and looked very composed to claim the winner after Alex Pritchard put the ball on a plate for him.
The midfielder is definitely benefitting from working under his mate Mike Dodds.
Abdoullah Ba – 5
No one really understood why Abdoullah Ba took Patrick Roberts place this evening and the question still goes unanswered.
The Frenchman was very poor and his decision-making was very disappointing. Sunderland looked a lot better when he came off.
Jack Clarke – 8
Jack Clarke was brilliant in the first half and Archie Gray had no chance against him on the left flank.
The winger didn’t see as much of the ball in the second, but arguably prevented a Leeds goal when he got back as the Whites looked set to go one-on-one with Patterson.
Alex Pritchard – 8
Alex Pritchard proved exactly why he should be starting every week. The midfielder was sensational and put in some brilliant set pieces too.
Three assists in two games now for the 30-year-old, who spent a chunk of the game out of position.
Substitutes: Patrick Roberts 6, Pierre Ekwah 6, Bradley Dack N/A