Player ratings

THORBEN HOFFMANN

Made one excellent save from Colby Bishop in the first half and generally got through his work well. Looked composed throughout on his return. 7

BAILEY WRIGHT

Won most of his duels on a steady return to the starting XI. Did not have a great deal of opportunity to get forward. 6

TOM FLANAGAN

A missed interception proved costly as Sunderland’s own corner led to a counterattacking goal for 10-man Accrington. It was poor game management all over the pitch and could have significant implications on the promotion race. 4

CALLUM DOYLE

One or two concentration lapses in the first half almost proved costly. Was strong for much of the second half with some key blocks, but it proved to be a frustrating afternoon as the clean sheet was ceded late on. 5

LYNDEN GOOCH

Started brightly in the first half, and almost had an assist for Stewart. Not as lively in the second half. 5

DAN NEIL

Plenty of industry, but not at his most creative and influential. Form has just dipped a touch over the last week. 5

ELLIOT EMBLETON

Made some dangerous runs and went close with one free kick, but never really able to carve Accrington open. 5

DENNIS CIRKIN

Made one brilliant block yards from his own line and, in an underwhelming team display, he was one who could consider himself unlucky not to be on the winning side. 7

LEON DAJAKU

One dangerous cross just before half-time almost led to a goal, but that threat was missing for much of the contest. A subdued return after his recent Covid illness.

ALEX PRITCHARD

5

Had been rated 50/50 for the game as he battled a knock and was not at his sharpest through the first half despite some clever touches. Replaced at the break. 5

ROSS STEWART

Drew one brilliant save from Toby Savin early on, but lacked his usual sharpness through the first half. Clever play ultimately drew a red card for Ross Sykes. 6

Substitutes

AIDEN O’BRIEN

A touch of fortune about his deflected goal, but the injection of energy he brought was very welcome at the start of the second half. Influence did fade over the half. 6