Scowen’s message for Cats’ goal-shy strikers after goalless draw

Josh Scowen insists Sunderland’s attacking players will come good in front of goal – providing they keep receiving the service.

The Black Cats were made to settle for a point at The Valley despite dominating large spells of the game.

And while a share of the spoils was gratefully received after Tom Flanagan’s second half red card, Sunderland were left to wonder what could have been after squandering a handful of gilt-edged chance sin the first half.

Some of the better chances came via the boot of Scowen, whose deliveries led to fine first half chances for Bailey Wright and Danny Graham in what quickly became a frustrating afternoon for Phil Park in son’ s side.

But while Sunderland’s forward players have come in for criticism from some quarters, Scowen is still confident they will come good – provided the same level of service is provided.

“It' s very frustrating ,” said the midfielder.

"But at the end of the day to go down to ten men and take the point - it's very good and something to build on.

"In the first half we could have had two or three goals and that' s what' s frustrating us.

“It's disappointing that we haven't come away with the three points, but there's lots of positives to take from it.

"If we keep creating those chances then we've got the strikers who can finish them.

"They've been a bit unfortunate today, but if we keep creating them then we know they'll get the goals.

“We dominated the game and had some very good chances, which we unfortunately didn't take today,” he continued.

"If we keep creating those chances then the players we've got are more than capable of putting them away.”

Scowen was also full of praise for Sunderland’ s defensive unit who, for the third game running, kept a well-earned clean sheet – with Lee Burge a spectator for large spells.

He added :“We played some very good football and created four or five very good opportunities – but again, defensively at the back, I don't remember Burgey having to make a proper save.

“So it's pleasing both attacking-wise - except for the goals - and keeping a clean sheet.”