Sunderland fans had a lot to say after their side’s 2-2 draw against bottom club Plymouth Argyle on Saturday. It was a huge missed opportunity for the Black Cats.
Regis Le Bris’ side got what they deserved on Saturday – a point. Plymouth Argyle played their game well and took their chances well, leaving with a deserved point in the end.
Sunderland were far too cautious. Le Bris will take most of the blame for that one for sitting back too often, especially after eventually taking the lead, and his substitutions could’ve been sooner too.
But goalkeeper Anthony Patterson is the one getting most of the critics.
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Sunderland fans blast Anthony Patterson after Plymouth Argyle draw
Patterson scored an own goal in the game, then looked nervy in his own penalty box as Plymouth scored a scrappy second.
Needless to say, many Sunderland fans on social media have blamed Patterson for the Plymouth equaliser with one comment describing Patterson as ‘genuinely horrendous’.
Another Sunderland fan posted: “Patterson needs to be taken away from the first team. His confidence is shot,” as a similar comment read: “Patto needs dropped. No command of his area, distribution is lacking too. Riding on the coattails of being a local lad. Needs to perform.”
“Reminder that we were only still in it at the end there because of Patto btw,” said another Black Cats supporter.
Meanwhile, others think that the club should sell the 24-year-old. “Sell Patterson at this point,” said one Sunderland fan as another posted: “Cash in on Patto ASAP.”
Michael Graham doesn’t think Anthony Patterson criticism is fair
Earlier in January, Sunderland fans were criticising Patterson once again, that time for his distribution which was again questionable against Plymouth.
But journalist Michael Graham defended Patterson’s form, highlighting the fact that he is still young for a goalkeeper and that he’s been tasked with a lot in this passing team under Le Bris.
Graham posted on X: “I get frustrated with the Patterson criticism. Kicking isn’t his strength, but it’s not like he’s deciding the tactics.
“He’s also still developing. Doesn’t feel like it, but this is only his third full season. Sunderland are building the plane as they’re flying it and he’s part of that.”
So far in 2024/25, Patterson has kept 10 clean sheets in 26 Championship games.