O’nien to the rescue for Parky

PHIL PARKINSON felt it was vital Sunderland picked up three points as potential international call- ups threaten to disrupt their upcoming league schedule.

The Black Cats play two games in the Leasing.com Trophy and one in the FA Cup before most likely joining Premier League and Championship clubs in sitting out the international break.

Luke O’nien’s header saw off Southend and Parkinson said: “It’s an important win for us, with the possibility of not having a league game for a while. Everybody knew it was important to get the result.”

O’nien, thriving as an attacking midfielder having mainly played at full-back under Parkinson’s predecessor Jack Ross, met Denver Hume’s cross with a diving header in the first half.

Parkinson said: “That goal – I am looking forward to watching it again with a glass of wine.

“He is great in both boxes, and that is where the game is won or lost. It was a terrific header, a great cross, and I am pleased for him.”

SUNDERLAND SOUTHEND 5 ........ Shots on Target ..........1 6 ........Shots off Target .........3 3 ................Corners ..................1 12 .................Fouls .................. 12 3 ............... Offsides ................ 0 81.1 ... Passing Success % ...76.7 477.....Total Passes % ..... 434 53.4........Possession ........46.6 60.6 ....Territorial Adv % ..... 39.4

Defeat means that Sol Campbell is still searching for his first point as Southend manager, but felt his side should have had a penalty when Simon Cox’s strike appeared to strike Max Power on the arm.

He said: “It’s another defeat, but the performances are getting better.

“Sunderland had a little bit more possession, but as the game went on we had more of the ball and there was a definite shout for a penalty.

“The main thing is the performance. It’s definitely gone up another level, and I’m pleased with that.”