Sunderland vs Manchester United draw proved fruitless for both when Sunderland AFC were left to question how they could have managed to pull off a rare win over Manchester United at the Stadium of Light.
The home side played a disciplined and energetic performance, which saw them pose several threats to United and challenge them on the defensive side. They were however, regularly denied by fine saves from the keeper of the day, Senne Lammens and the net, which were essential in keeping the visitors in the game.
Manchester United were fresh for the game after a spate of solid performances under new manager, Michael Carrick. They had demonstrated attacking fluidity and a renewed faith in their abilities in their recent matches, having shown the emotion in their victory against Liverpool at Old Trafford last week to ensure they qualify for next season’s Champions League.
This match was different however. The United midfielders failed to get going and didn’t appear to have a fluid rhythm. They were not able to break quickly enough into attacks, and were required to defend deeper than normal for extended periods of time which took away the sharpness of their attacking turns.
Sunderland were 100% deserving to be pressed and seemed far more organised in some parts of the game. Both teams had several clear opportunities which were not converted. They were denied their desired woodwork more than once and Lammens was instrumental with his saves to keep United level.
However, even though United were a good quality side individually, they were a poor side as a whole. The team were not under any pressure or urgency, allowing Sunderland to remain competitive all game.
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens was one of the most crucial in the United, making some key saves that were crucial in avoiding a loss.
