Ust banish their nerves, take mes and play on the front foot
decisions themselves; such as that disallowed effort from Bradford City that clearly crossed the line on Boxing Day.
Referees and low cunning from the opposition aren’t to blame for everything. Sunderland invite trouble by being unadventurous.
They sit third in the league with only two defeats. The obvious problem is the 10 draws: the most in the league. This stems from too few goals – despite their having scored in every game – and overcautiousness when taking the lead.
They have only taken that all-important two-goal lead once in their last 10 league games.
Over-caution cost two points against Luton. The move for the equaliser began when Chris Maguire won the ball. He then looked up to see which team-mates were ahead of him. Despite being in the centre of his own half, there were none.
He consequently held the ball for too long and was dispossessed/fouled by McCormack, which led to Collins’ dive being rewarded with the penalty.
No shortage of misfortune there. However, had Sunderland left someone upfield, not only would they have been more likely to score a second, they would also have an outlet when trying to defend.
It’s the same flawed thinking that leads all 11 players back to defend set-pieces. It makes no sense either defensively or offensively.
So please lads. Play on the front foot. This doesn’t mean throwing everyone and his wife into the opposition half. It just means a little more derring do, keeping the ball on the ground and less timidity.
In a league where Luton Town are about as good as it gets; why are Sunderland so nervous?