Key Barton’s mood

dfield and could have had in the first half, Ched Evans to tap in at the far post. derland lacked direction and ol in the first half but, true to form, staged a comeback. Maja forced a sharp save Alex Cairns just before half And Maja’s leveller came soon when he grabbed his fifth of ason, bundling home George yman’s cross. n had a great chance to the lead when they were ed a penalty as the second kicked off after Adam ews fouled James Husband. ns placed the ball and looked take it, but it was Madden had the shot only to see Mclaughlin dive to his left and save. It was the first time a Sunderland keeper had saved a penalty at the Stadium of Light since Tony Norman in 1989.

Sunderland boss Ross said: “That’s an incredible statistic. We have put a few stats right in a short space of time.”

Barton explained: “Ched put the ball on the spot. We shouted that Paddy was the taker. There was a bit of confusion. We have spoken about it in the dressing room.

“But their keeper made two great saves and we are moving in the right direction.”

Ross added: “We have had a solid start. Not spectacular, but solid. I’d like to have won every game.”