Sunderland were back at the Stadium of Light this afternoon with Cardiff City the visitors, and despite a nervous spell, the Black Cats secured another win at home.
Before the game, some Sunderland fans may have been wary of their opponents, given Cardiff’s impressive record on Wearside of late.
Within the first two minutes of the game, those fears were alleviated thanks to an early goal from the in-form Eliezer Mayenda, via a lovely Patrick Roberts assist.
However, despite being incredibly dominant for the most part, the Black Cats were pegged back by Cardiff late on in the first half and had to find a way to get back in front in the second.
After the break, both teams had chances to take the lead, with Regis Le Bris’ side arguably having the edge in a tight affair.
Ultimately, it was a set-piece that gave the Black Cats the breakthrough, with Chris Mepham slotting home to restore Sunderland’s lead in the 77th minute.
Sunderland player ratings from the 2-1 win vs Cardiff City
Sunderland dominated the first 25 minutes and the last 20 minutes, with a very tricky period in between. While some members of the Sunderland squad impressed with big performances on the day, others looked a little lacklustre.
Anthony Patterson – 6
Should have done better for Cardiff’s goal. Yes, there’s some contact, but he’s showing real weakness in the box lately which is a big concern. Huge save to deny Cardiff in the second half, though.
Trai Hume – 7
Unlucky not to get a goal in the first half but dragged his effort wide. Had a little bit of difficulty in the second half, but also showed some glimpses of really strong, smart defensive play, too. Played through a brilliant pass from the free-kick to set up the second goal.
Chris Mepham – 7
An unremarkable and fairly quiet outing for the big man at the back… until he popped up with his first goal for Sunderland to help them regain the lead after a neat set-piece routine.
Leo Hjelde – 6
Taken off after 55 minutes. Didn’t necessarily do anything wrong, but also didn’t do anything outstanding either.
Luke O’Nien – 7
Handled everything that came down his side, standing up the ball on numerous occasions to prevent crosses into the box. When he moved into the middle of defence, Luke O’Nien continued to clean up everything Cardiff could throw at the Black Cats.
Dan Neil – 7
Solid as always from the skipper. Good use of possession, helped Sunderland turn defence into attack time and time again. Constantly making the little tackles and simple passes that keep the team ticking.
Alan Browne – 6
A gritty display from Browne, who put in the miles to show his worth. Played with tenacity throughout. When he was on the ball, he looked solid, but he certainly faded out of the game.
Jobe Bellingham – 8
Some really nice touches in the middle of the park to open up space and get Sunderland playing. Made some smart runs in behind, too. Just once or twice, made the wrong decision with the pass, but other than that, a top display from the dynamic midfielder.
Patrick Roberts – 7
Registered a sublime assist early on with a clever pass to Mayenda. But, had to withdraw after just 25 minutes due to an injury.
Romaine Mundle – 8
Finally looks to be getting back to his best. Was a constant menace down the left, beat his man multiple times, but just couldn’t find the killer ball at the end. Whipped in some seriously dangerous set-piece deliveries, too. Looks like he could be key to Sunderland finding their edge again in the final run-in.
Eliezer Mayenda – 9
Took his goal beautifully, with a lovely shimmy before rifling home. Looked like making something happen every time he picked up the ball. He’s clearly hungry to show Le Bris he deserves to be more than just an impact sub.
Patrick Roberts injury forces early substitution for Regis Le Bris
Sadly, Sunderland’s injury worries continued as Patrick Roberts was hauled off midway through the first half with an issue. Here’s how we rated his replacement, and the other substitutes in today’s game.
Chris Rigg – 7
Replaced Patrick Roberts after 25 minutes. Got stuck in, had a couple of dangerous moments on the ball, and made himself available around the box. But, again, you can tell he’s not 100% fit.
Dennis Cirkin – 7
On for Leo Hjelde after 55 minutes. Sunderland’s whole shape changed when Dennis Cirkin came on, with the full-back bombing down the left with vigour and helping to push Cardiff back.
Wilson Isidor – 6
Replaced Alan Browne on the 55-minute mark as Le Bris looked to take the game to Cardiff. Registered an assist for the winning goal. But, the marksman should have done better when he was played on late in the game by Mayenda.
Tommy Watson – 5
Made his big return, replacing Romaine Mundle with just over 15 minutes to go. Looked a shadow of his former self, and missed a golden opportunity late on. But, we’ll forgive him for now as he’s obviously chasing fitness.